Real stories from people building, leading and growing.
Hosted by Jeev Sahoo, founder of Step8Up, this new podcast brings together founders, SME leaders, educators, employers and community builders to talk about resilience, growth, identity, skills and the moments that shape leadership.
After the London Marathon, the Business Person of the Year recognition, and Step8Up’s headline sponsorship of Hampshire Business Show, we are opening the first guest list.
Who we want to hear from
- SME founders and business owners
- Leaders with a real growth story
- Employers investing in skills and people
- Community builders and changemakers
- People with lessons others can use
This is not another business podcast.
It is a practical conversation about what it really takes to keep going, make decisions, build teams, learn new skills and create impact — one step at a time.
Founder stories
Honest journeys: the wins, the pressure, the pivots, the lessons and the identity behind the business.
Growth lessons
Actionable insight for SMEs: sales, people, skills, resilience, funding, AI, operations and leadership.
Community spotlight
Featuring leaders connected to Step8Up, Hampshire Business Show, chambers, employer networks and local business communities.
Initial topic ideas
We will shape each episode around the guest, but these themes are a strong starting point.
- The moment that changed how you lead
- What marathon training teaches founders about business
- Building resilience when nobody sees the hard days
- How SMEs can grow without losing their identity
- Why skills, training and people development drive business growth
- Using AI without losing the human touch
- From survival mode to strategic growth
- The one lesson every new founder should learn earlier
- What local business communities need next
- How to create opportunity for the next generation
Apply to join the first guest list
Fill in the short form and our team will contact selected guests to book a recording slot. Episodes may be recorded online or in person depending on availability and location.
What happens next?
We review your story, agree a topic angle, book a short preparation call, then record a natural conversation that can be used as podcast, video and social content.
One conversation can create the next opportunity.
We are building a platform for leaders who believe growth is not just about revenue — it is about people, resilience, learning and contribution.
Join the first guest list