The New Luxury: Why Investing in Yourself Matters | Lewis Donaldson

The New Luxury: Why Investing in Yourself Matters | Lewis Donaldson

Welcome to the very first episode of the newly rebranded Shaping The North East. To kick off this new chapter, we're joined by Lewis Donaldson, founder of L.Donaldson Massage in Aberdeen, for a conversation about self-care, entrepreneurship and the changing ways people choose to invest in themselves. Lewis shares his journey from studying media at university to building a successful massage therapy business, why he believes a personalised, holistic approach to health delivers the best outcomes, and his thoughts on the rise of larger therapy chains that often sacrifice individuality for convenience. We also discuss changing attitudes towards disposable income, why more people are prioritising wellbeing over traditional nights out, and how the continued growth of L.Donaldson Massage has led to an exciting move into a new city centre studio. Shaping The North East explores the people, ideas and ventures defining the region's next chapter. Follow the podcast to hear more conversations with the individuals helping shape the future of the North East. Follow L.Donaldson Massage: https://www.ldonaldsonmassage.com [https://www.ldonaldsonmassage.com] https://www.instagram.com/l.donaldsonmassage/ [https://www.instagram.com/l.donaldsonmassage/] https://www.facebook.com/p/L-Donaldson-Massage-61568274151702/ [https://www.facebook.com/p/L-Donaldson-Massage-61568274151702/]

Building a Business and a Family Together | Amanda & Bob Law's Story

In this episode (sponsored by KLT Networking), Chris sits down with Amanda and Bob Law from Amanda Law Mortgages to explore the journey behind the business and the family that powers it. Amanda shares how she built her career in finance and took the leap to launch her own mortgage business, while Bob reflects on his career in the oil and gas sector before making the decision to join the company full-time. Together, they discuss life in Aberdeen, raising a young family, navigating the challenges and opportunities of working as a married couple, and learning how to play to their individual strengths. We also talk about entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership, teamwork, and the importance of understanding how to work together effectively both at home and in the workplace. Amanda and Bob offer an honest insight into building a successful mortgage business while maintaining a strong family life, as well as their vision for the future of Amanda Law Mortgages. Keep up to date with Amanda Law Mortgages here: https://amandalaw-mortgages.com [https://amandalaw-mortgages.com] https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560264342446 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560264342446] https://www.instagram.com/amandalawmortgages [https://www.instagram.com/amandalawmortgages] https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-law-cemap-b27a401a8/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-law-cemap-b27a401a8/] https://www.tiktok.com/@UC0-m0cWMQ6HPG2xiPqLyQAg [https://www.tiktok.com/@UC0-m0cWMQ6HPG2xiPqLyQAg] https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-law-6b310737/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-law-6b310737/] If you're interested in entrepreneurship, financial services, career transitions, family businesses, or the realities of building a company with your partner, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical lessons. Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and leave a review if you enjoy the conversation. Amanda Law Mortgages is a trading style of Aberdein Considine LLP who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Aberdeen's Music Talent Deserves a Bigger Stage | Glen Gauld, North City Signal

Aberdeen is home to an incredible range of musicians and artists, but many never get the exposure they deserve. Glen Gauld, founder of North City Signal, explains how his platform is helping shine a spotlight on local talent, capture live performances, and build a stronger creative community in the North East of Scotland. We discuss: • Glen's background and journey into music production through NESCol • Why he started North City Signal • The artists and musicians they've worked with • Some of Aberdeen's most memorable recording locations and venues • The challenges facing local artists today • The future vision for North City Signal If you're interested in Aberdeen's creative community, independent music, and the people working behind the scenes to support local artists, this episode is for you.

How TokOfTheDeen Built a Loyal Community While Championing Aberdeen's Local Businesses

In this episode, I sit down with Lesley-Ann, better known as TokOfTheDeen, to discuss how she has built a thriving online community in just 14 months. What started as a way of exercising creative expression through creating content has grown into something much bigger. Lesley-Ann shares how she uses her platform to champion independent businesses, highlight hidden gems across Aberdeen, and create genuine connections with her audience. We talk about the importance of trust, staying positive online, supporting others to succeed, setting goals, and the lessons she's learned while growing her presence on social media. Whether you're a content creator, business owner, or simply interested in the power of community, there's plenty to take away from this conversation. In this episode: • Building a community online • Supporting local and independent businesses • Growing a social media presence • Creating positive content • Building trust with an audience • Goal setting and personal growth • Championing Aberdeen's local business scene Connect with TokOfTheDeen: https://www.tiktok.com/@tokofthedeen [https://www.tiktok.com/@tokofthedeen] https://www.instagram.com/tokofthedeen/ [https://www.instagram.com/tokofthedeen/] https://www.facebook.com/Tokofthedeen/ [https://www.facebook.com/Tokofthedeen/] Follow the podcast: https://www.instagram.com/sznmedialtd/ [https://www.instagram.com/sznmedialtd/] https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588320118510 [https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61588320118510] https://www.youtube.com/@SZNMediaLtd [https://www.youtube.com/@UC_RlrFo2SMEUOZ8dGQ8Dpvg] https://www.linkedin.com/company/szn-media-ltd/ [https://www.linkedin.com/company/szn-media-ltd/] If you enjoyed this episode, please like, subscribe, and leave a comment with your thoughts.

What Happens When You Say Yes Before You're Ready? | TEDx Aberdeen Speaker Chloe Watson

When Chloe Watson was invited to give a TEDx talk, she didn't feel ready. Today, Chloe is a content creator, sustainable fashion advocate, and TEDx Aberdeen speaker whose talk, Confessions of a Fast Fashion Addict, challenged the way we think about clothing consumption and fast fashion. In this episode, Chloe shares the reality behind stepping onto the TEDx stage, the self-doubt she faced beforehand, and how the experience transformed her confidence. We also discuss building a platform around sustainable fashion, navigating life as a content creator, overcoming imposter syndrome, and what happens when you say yes to opportunities before you feel fully prepared. Whether you're interested in public speaking, personal growth, content creation, or sustainable fashion, this conversation offers an honest look at confidence, courage, and taking the next step before you're ready. Connect with Chloe: Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/chloelouisewears/] Watch Chloe's TEDx Talk: Chloe's TEDx Aberdeen Talk [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XEDbXSdatdo]