The Active Code

Hosted by Paul Griffiths and Luke Johnson

Business Management

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Latest episode

Jul 2025

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About the show

Through this podcast series, Paul Griffiths and Luke Johnson from Aspire Active Partnerships aim to discover The Active Code. What is takes to be a successful leader and leading organisations towards combatting inactivity to help more children, be more active, more often. We are not alone through this journey – we are joined by business owners and leaders from in and outside of the sports coaching and children's activity sector who share what physical activity means to them, how they lead their organisation to achieve their company mission, and what they believe is The Active Code.

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60 recent

July 7, 202547 min

The Active Code Podcast # 52 | Leading teams with purpose, presence and impact - Matt Nowell

Who is our guest? Matt Nowell is a seasoned professional with over 25 years of experience in people management, including roles at EY People Consulting and IBM Consulting. With a deep-rooted passion for sports and its profound impact on leadership and teamwork, Matt has combined his love for physical activity with extensive corporate expertise to foster growth and connection in organisations. His keen interest in behavioural science, understanding how people think, act, and work, has been central to his career trajectory, influencing the way he approaches leadership and organisational challenges. Having witnessed firsthand how organisations often struggle to bridge strategy with reality, Matt has been a pivotal figure in promoting wellness, collaboration, and effective communication. Currently, at StoryLabs Creative, Matt partners with HR and business leaders to rethink work from the ground up. Using design thinking, storytelling, and operational innovation, he equips organisations with the tools to tackle real challenges, whether it’s improving collaboration, fixing broken ways of working or designing experiences that drive actionable business outcomes. What do we discuss? The importance of collaboration in sports Challenges in managing people The role of well-being in leadership Engaging remote workers The impact of technology on leadership AI and the future of work Physical activity and the younger generation The importance of measuring progress Generational gaps in the workplace Evolving leadership development Redefining employee experience Measuring outcomes and engagement The role of storytelling in leadership Beyond surveys: Real-time employee feedback

June 23, 202540 min

The Active Code Podcast # 51 | Lead, Move and Inspire - Ben Hazeldine

Who is our guest? Ben Hazeldine is a passionate entrepreneur and respected leader in the children’s sports coaching sector. Inspired by his parents, both athletes and educators, Ben combined his love for sports with a commitment to education to launch Future Stars Coaching in 2009. His vision is to provide high-quality, engaging sports education for children.Since then, Ben has grown the business into a thriving franchise network, with 14 territories now delivering activities to over 25,000 children every week. His innovative approach includes developing training programmes for PE teachers, raising the standard of school sports provision, and building strong partnerships with schools and community clubs.Ben’s ability to spot opportunities and adapt—whether by embracing new funding models or using modern marketing strategies—has been key to his success. His leadership style centres on clear expectations, high standards, and supporting others to grow. What do we discuss? -From passion to profession-The evolution of apprenticeships-Early challenges and breakthroughs-Defining moments and growth-Franchising Future Stars Coaching-Leadership evolution and team building-Measuring success and continuous improvement-Delegation and trust in leadership-Staying ahead in a competitive sector-Future goals

June 2, 202538 min

The Active Code Podcast # 50 | Educator to Entrepreneur - John Mulholland

Who is our guest?John Mulholland is a multi-faceted professional with a diverse background in both education and business. Initially beginning his career as a secondary school teacher specialising in A-level geography, John has since expanded his horizons to become the director of a fast-paced sports coaching company called Fiesta Sports Coaching. Beyond education and sports, John is also a property developer with over 20 years of experience. As an educator, John is passionate about developing young minds and has leveraged his extensive teaching experience to improve the physical education sector. Under his leadership, Fiesta Sports Coaching has evolved from running summer football camps to offering comprehensive sports coaching and education programmes. John's business acumen doesn't stop at sports; he has successfully undertaken several property development projects, specialising in raising capital and finance. John continually explores innovative ways to integrate new technologies into his business operations in his free time, from cloud-based systems to AI. With his drive, ambition, and relentless pursuit of improvement, John is a dynamic leader committed to significantly impacting education, sports, and business.What do we discuss?John's professional journeyCommon challenges in businessLeadership and team developmentInnovation and embracing technologySecuring grants for community projectsThe importance of relationship-buildingNavigating funding applicationsUtilising scorecards for improvementExploring wraparound servicesTips for effective video marketingFuture ambitions and recommendations

May 12, 202544 min

The Active Code Podcast # 49 | Why Great Leaders Are Always Selling? -Suzy Hunt

Who is our guest? Suzy Hunt is an accomplished executive and leadership coach passionate about empowering others through personal and professional development. With a rich corporate leadership and sales background, Suzy transitioned to coaching after a pivotal moment in 2017, when simple career advice nudged her towards uncovering her true calling. She holds a qualification in coaching and mentoring from the University of Salford. She has since established herself as a go-to expert for C-suite executives, teams, and individuals seeking to enhance their confidence and achieve performance excellence in their professional lives. In her former role as Head of Field Sales for Lucozade and Ribena in the UK, Suzy was known for her dynamic leadership and ability to drive sales performance through her exceptional team. She leverages her extensive experience in her coaching practice, where she specialises in executive coaching, leadership development, team dynamics, and sales training. Suzy is also a Type 1 diabetic and a mother, enhancing her empathetic and resilient approach to coaching. When not coaching, Suzy is an engaging speaker and hosts the “Coaching Cast” podcast, where she shares insights on workplace challenges and personal development alongside her friend and fellow coach, Lisa.What do we discuss?Meet Suzy Hunt: A journey to coaching The importance of sales in the physical activity sector Effective sales techniques and challenges Building resilience and self-talk strategies Power of visualisation in workshops Building relationships in sales AI's role in sales Lego serious play in team training Creating a people-first culture

February 10, 202527 min

The Active Code Podcast # 48 | 'Unlocking Financial Fitness' - Duncan Lloyd

Who is our guest? Duncan, the founder and CEO of Profit Genie, is a renowned expert in financial management and business profitability. With a strong background in accounting, Duncan has dedicated his career to helping businesses transcend beyond mere compliance and achieve substantial financial growth. At Profit Genie, Duncan, the founder and CEO of Profit Genie, is a renowned expert in financial management and business profitability. With a strong background in accounting, Duncan has dedicated his career to helping businesses transcend beyond mere compliance and achieve substantial economic growth. At Profit Genie, Duncan champions the "profit first" methodology, guiding businesses through cash flow management and accountability sessions to ensure robust financial health.Duncan’s passion for financial literacy and empowerment is evident as he frequently engages with SMEs, offering top-tier financial advice and practical steps for enhancing profitability and cash flow. A respected leader in his field, Duncan's transformative approach has earned him widespread acclaim, making him a sought-after figure for businesses seeking to thrive financially.For more insights and to connect with Duncan, visit Profit Genie. What do we discuss? · Cash flow system· How Duncan stays active· Link between finance and fitness· Importance of profitability· Tips for financial fitness· Common financial misconceptions· Improving cash flow· Management accounts· Profit first methodology· Supporting SMEs· Financial literacy· Importance of cash flow· Advice for business owners· Books and resources· Performance measurement

January 20, 202543 min

The Active Code #47- Leadership in Motion: Inspiring Active Communities with Wayne Glover, Time 4 Sport

Who is our guest?Wayne is the founder and managing director of Time4Sport, which promotes physical activity and healthy lifestyles for children and families. With a background in sports coaching and development, Wayne has been leading Time4Sport for over 18 years, growing the organisation to employ 24 staff and serve 7,500 children and families weekly. He holds a BA in Sports Development and Coaching and has extensive experience in coaching, management, and community engagement. Under his leadership, Time4Sport has expanded its services to include school programmes, holiday camps, and family weight management initiatives. Wayne is committed to collaboration within the sector, believing that working together is key to combating physical inactivity. Outside work, Wayne enjoys spending time with his family, staying active through gym sessions and coaching his son's football team. What do we talk about: Wayne's early life and professional journeyManaging Time4Sport and personal work ethicsBuilding Time4SportPersonal benefits of physical activityPromoting physical activity through Time4SportWayne's role models and leadership styleWayne's leadership development and strategic planningStaff development and challengesRecommendations for leadership enhancement

July 15, 202457 min

The Active Code Podcast #46| Creating Active Communities- Dan Wilson and Alex Ogden

Who are our guests? Dan Wilson and Alex Ogden are pioneering spirits in the realm of physical education (PE), each illustrating the transformative journey from teaching in schools to spearheading community-wide initiatives for active living. Dan’s evolution from a PE specialist to a director at Yorkshire Sport Foundation is a testament to his leadership in melding education with broader community goals. His personal experiences highlight a strong belief in the value of sports for social and development benefits. Similarly, Alex’s path from a passionate PE teacher to a role at Yorkshire Sport Foundation under Dan's guidance showcases his dedication to promoting physical activity in schools and beyond. His career transitions, driven by a commitment to physically active learning, mirror his belief in the power of sports to enhance well-being and community engagement. Dan and Alex embody the mission to make sports accessible, enjoyable, and life-enhancing for all children. They remind us of sports' powerful role in building life skills, fostering a sense of community, and enhancing physical and mental health. What did we discuss? · Dan's Professional Journey · Alex's Professional Journey · Personal Reflections on Physical Activity· Creating Active Schools Framework · Research Foundations and Early Implementation · Regional Pilot Projects and Key Learnings · Quick Wins and Active Curriculum Strategies· Behaviour Change and Teacher Engagement · Future vision of the education sector

June 24, 202450 min

The Active Code Podcast #45| Building a Legacy of Movement and Leadership - Ryan Harris, School of Play

Who is our guest? Ryan Harris is a charismatic leader in the children's sports coaching and activity sector. Beginning his career at 17 years old, as a kids' activity club provider at David Lloyd's leisure centre, Ryan has demonstrated a natural flair for sports and leadership. His early involvement in tennis, where he excelled to become the number one player in Lancashire for his age group, laid the foundation for his passion for sports and its development.Despite leaving university early, Ryan's entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to sports led him to recognise the transformative power of physical activity in children's lives. He leveraged his experience and skills to establish the School of Sport in 2016, later diversifying its offerings and rebranding to meet the needs of children and parents better. Under Ryan's leadership, the organisation has flourished, driven by his commitment to high standards, organisational excellence, and community impact. Ryan's journey from a sports enthusiast to a successful business owner reflects his belief in the importance of leadership, collaboration, and innovation in combating physical inactivity among youth. His story is a testament to the impact of perseverance, dedication, and a genuine passion for making a difference in the lives of young people through sports. What do we discuss?· The importance of leadership in combating physical inactivity· Introducing Ryan Harris: From tennis prodigy to business owner· Ryan's professional journey: The early years · Expanding beyond tennis: The growth of a business · Navigating business growth and the pandemic· Ryan's personal fitness journey and its impact · Engaging children in physical activity: Strategies and Challenges · The evolution of wraparound services· Offering free sessions: A strategy for growth· Leadership insights and inspirations · Building a culture of continuous improvement· Cracking the Active Code

June 3, 202442 min

The Active Code Podcast #44| Igniting the spark in physical activity - Adam Holland

Who is our guest? Adam Holland is a visionary leader in the children's physical activity sector, having devoted over nine years to managing Progressive Sports in Derbyshire, Nottingham, and Chesterfield. His journey, unconventional in the beginning, started right after high school when he dived into a sports coaching apprenticeship with Port Vale. Despite the early end of his tenure due to financial constraints, Adam’s passion never wavered. He quickly found a new beginning with Progressive Sports, where through dedication, learning, and genuine care for community wellbeing, he has significantly expanded the organisation's reach across the East Midlands. With a focus on making sports accessible and enjoyable for children, Adam has introduced innovative methods such as glow-in-the-dark activities to engage young people and has tirelessly worked towards breaking down barriers to physical activity. His leadership is not only transformative but also inclusive, pushing for high-quality services that raise enjoyment levels and physical activity among children. His efforts extend beyond the field; his strategic use of PR and marketing has notably increased Progressive Sports' visibility and impact. Adam's story is a testament to the power of passion, perseverance, and the importance of leadership at all levels of an organisation. What do we discuss? · A Journey in activating community activity· Adam's early career and the path to Progressive Sports · The power of physical activity: Adam's insights· Innovative approaches to engaging children in physical activity· Adam's proudest moments and inspirational leaders · Leadership insights and business coaching · The power of measurement in business improvement· Personal leadership style and team management· Developing leaders within the organisation· Challenges and strategies in leadership development· Addressing leadership perceptions in the sports sector· Recommendations for enhancing leadership skills· Creating opportunities and overcoming barriers· The importance of reflection and continuous improvement

May 13, 202438 min

The Active Code Podcast #43| Empowering the Next Generation - Andrea Springthrope

Who is our guest? Andrea Springthorpe is an inspiring figure with a multifaceted professional journey deeply rooted in physical activity and fitness. Starting her career in sales and marketing, Andrea found herself unfulfilled and longing for a change. At 28, she took a bold step by quitting her job to pursue a degree in Exercise, Physical Activity, and Health as a mature student at the University of Huddersfield. This decision was a turning point, leading her to explore various domains of physical fitness but ultimately recognising that her heart was not in becoming a PE teacher. Instead, Andrea embarked on an entrepreneurial path and established 'Fit for Force,' a boot camp business aimed at preparing individuals for the physical assessments required in the forces. Her venture was born out of a desire to fill a gap in the fitness preparation for those entering the forces, and it has been successful and ongoing since 2011. Beyond running boot camps, Andrea's journey took another significant turn when she joined Legacy Sport, where she climbed up to become one of the directors. In her role at Legacy, she handles a mix of finance, operations, sales, and marketing, drawing from her rich background to bring value to the organisation. On a personal level, Andrea places immense value on physical activity, not just for its physical benefits but for its mental health benefits as well. As a mother, she views herself as a role model to her daughter, Sophia, emphasising the importance of being active and healthy. Through her journey, Andrea exemplifies resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion, making her a compelling character in the narrative of fitness and personal growth. What do we discuss? · Andrea's Unique Journey into Fitness· The Birth of Fit for Force and Transition to Legacy Sport· A Day in the Life at Legacy: Roles and Responsibilities· Leveraging Sales and Marketing Skills in the Fitness Sector· Challenges and Changes in the School Fitness Sector· The Personal Significance of Physical Activity· Promoting Physical Activity Among Children and Parents· Inspirational Role Models and Leadership in the Sector· The Power of Collaboration and Networking· Leadership Style and Development at Legacy· Challenges and Achievements: A Reflection· Improving Activity Levels: Insights and Recommendations