The Wakefield Business Awards Podcast 2025
We Are Wakefield Podcast | Episode 8: Wakefield Business Awards Special 🎉
In this special episode, we’re gearing up for the 2025 Wakefield Business Awards on 13 November by celebrating the stories behind the success.
Join host Claire Sutherley, MD of We Are Wakefield, as she chats with two of our inspiring 2024 winners:
- Karen Starkey from Conservatory Outlet, who shares her commitment to ethical business and improving lives.
- Berni O’Brien from St George’s, whose work focuses on empowering local people and supporting their aspirations.
We’re also joined by Dixie from BBC Radio Leeds, host of the Awards for the second year, who captures the electric atmosphere of the event.
Expect behind-the-scenes insights, heartfelt reflections, and even a few seating plan secrets!
🎟️ Tickets for the 2025 Awards are on sale now — closing date: 26 October
🎧 Tune in and get inspired
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations from the heart of Wakefield’s business scene.
We Are Wakefield Podcast | Episode 7: Wakefield Business Awards Special 🎉
In this celebratory episode, We Are Wakefield MD Claire Sutherley sits down with the powerhouse sponsors behind the upcoming Wakefield Business Awards 2025—and it’s all about community, recognition, and a little bit of cheeky anticipation for the big night!
✨ Meet the guests:
- Sylvie Giangolini, MD of Head Sponsors Hako, shares why supporting Wakefield businesses is close to her heart (and jokes that the awards night might get a bit messy!)
- Kelly Smith of Juice Personnel, returning as Supporting Sponsors for the 4th year, reflects on the value of consistency and connection.
- Stella Bowdell of Huddersfield Business School, joining as Supporting Sponsors for the first time, brings fresh energy and insight into why this event is unlike any other.
🏆 Together, they explore:
- Why awards matter more than ever in today’s business landscape
- What makes the Wakefield Business Awards uniquely supportive
- How We Are Wakefield is more than a network—it’s a thriving business community every local company should be part of
📅 Save the date: The awards night takes place at the stunning Tileyard North on 13th November 2025—and if Sylvie’s prediction is anything to go by, it’s going to be unforgettable!
🔔 Subscribe for more inspiring conversations from the heart of Wakefield’s business scene.
🎙️ WAW Podcast Episode 6: Wakefield Business Awards Special – Behind the Judging Curtain
Available now on YouTube & Spotify
In this special edition of the WAW Podcast, Managing Director Claire Sutherley lifts the lid on the judging process behind the 2025 Wakefield Business Awards. Joined by Head Judge Louise Turner of Awards Writers and first-time Judge Sarah Beaumont of Widd Signs, we dive into what really goes on when the entries land—and why this year’s shortlist is something to be proud of.
💬 Expect honest reflections, expert insights, and a few surprises as Louise and Sarah share what impressed them, what challenged them, and why Wakefield’s approach to awards is refreshingly different.
🏆 We talk about:
- The rigorous, transparent judging process
- Why scepticism around awards is valid—and how we’re tackling it
- What makes a standout entry
- The joy (and responsibility) of celebrating local excellence
📅 Shortlist revealed: 18 August 2025
🎉 Awards Ceremony: 13 November 2025
Whether you entered, judged, or are just curious—this episode is your backstage pass to the heart of Wakefield’s business celebration.
🔔 Subscribe, share, and get inspired. Wakefield’s finest are ready to shine.
Rhubarb Radio Showcase - Wakefield Business Awards Special - August 2025
Wakefield Business Awards go live on Rhubarb Radio! 🎉
Tune in to the Rhubarb Radio Wakefield Business Awards Showcase broadcast Tuesday 26 August—because this is one broadcast you won’t want to miss!
Rhubarb Radio’s very own Dave Adams dives into all things Wakefield Business Awards with We Are Wakefield MD Claire Sutherley and a very special guest: Sylvie Giangolini, MD of Hako Cleaning Equipment— brand new Headline Sponsors for the 2025 Awards! 🌟
💬 Expect behind-the-scenes insights, celebration of local brilliance, and a spotlight on how Hako is powering up its supply chain by collaborating with fellow We Are Wakefield members:
Together, they’re making efficiency and innovation look effortless.
📻 Tune in below 👇
☕Grab a brew, and join us for a celebration of Wakefield’s finest. Let’s raise the volume on local success!