Ever had one of those coffee chats where you’re suddenly struck by an idea that feels right? That’s precisely the origin story of The Good Business Podcast. Over coffee and chat about the sheer amount of Highland businesses killing it, what started as a simple conversation soon became our passion project: The Good Business Podcast.

Our mission is twofold: shine a spotlight on the best of Highland business and create opportunities for young people interested in a media production or communications career – oh, and to keep it a non-profit mission-led project.

Season One? Well, to say it was a whirlwind of learning would be an understatement. From figuring out the technical craft behind podcasting to finding the perfect young person to become our first paid trainee and managing all as a non-profit project with a shoestring budget, it presented its fair share of challenges.

Yet, as is the Highland way, fortitude prevailed.

We quickly realised our grand vision required a wee bit more than hope; it also needed help! Thankfully, willing volunteers were in supply, and our young assistant learned everything from project planning to capturing and editing content. Drew Hendry, our local MP and good friend, kindly volunteered his time to take on the dual role of guest host and mentor. He steered our storytellers, sharing his experiences and involving them in the interview process.

As we laid out the plans for Season Two, serendipity led us to Scott MacDonald of Flying Scotsman UAS. We thoroughly enjoyed working with Scott on a SNAP Charity event, and after seeing his fantastic videography work in action, we knew we just had to get him on board. We were delighted when he agreed to capture the Good Business stories we wanted to share and join our mentor team.

Partnering Scott with Danni Nicolson, this season’s guest host and an entrepreneur-in-making, made the perfect pairing.

Danni’s journey as our mentee and guest host this season? It is a mix of absorbing every bit of wisdom from our inspirational guests, refining her already impressive presentation skills, and gaining media production insights from Scott.

Like any start-up venture, we wrestled with keeping our mission-centred ethos amidst budget constraints. But passion finds a way, and enlisting the services of Cairan from CM Communications completed our podcast jigsaw – we soon learned she is the ultimate organisation wizard!

Highland business stories are a tapestry of ambition, resilience, and community spirit – and we’ve seen that in abundance on our journey this season. From the local football club, balancing the scales between profit and community; an entrepreneur who, amidst the chaos of COVID, took the risk to go it alone and is now recognised as one of the UK’s top entrepreneurs; and a family enterprise, the very heart of the Highlands for over seven decades.

So, to those wondering if there is space for yet another podcast on the list, then make room. These Highland business stories are tales of tenacity, innovation, and grit and are not to be missed!