Welcome to Lisa Capper MBE, the inspiring CEO and principal of the Sandwell Colleges Group. Lisa takes us through her journey of leading the largest college network in the West Midlands, shedding light on how these institutions are pivotal in transforming lives in communities marked by high deprivation. She shares the innovative steps Sandwell Colleges are taking, like the introduction of T-levels, to prepare learners for a future entwined with AI and technology, making education a powerful catalyst for social mobility.

Lisa highlights the remarkable milestones achieved by Sandwell College in student safety and diversity, earning top accolades for safeguarding and fostering an inclusive environment. With a large percentage of learners from black and ethnic minority backgrounds, Lisa talks to us about the college's commitment to diversity and its impactful 'swaps program,' which successfully integrates adults into NHS employment. These stories underscore the adaptability and community-focused ethos of Sandwell Colleges amidst the challenges of a competitive educational landscape.

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Welcome to this very special Canny Conversations podcast. We continue our break from our usual format to bring you the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Mo Chaudry, British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist.

Mo Talks about his connection to, and love of Stoke-on-Trent. He tells us about taking the risk of buying Water World in Staffordshire, even when the bank would not lend him the money and the deciding to sell just at the right time.

Saf and Mo also touch his appearance on The Secret Millionaire TV show and finish their conversation with Mo’s thoughts on role models for business and life.

https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

We are delighted to welcome Mo Chaudry, a British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. He is best known for having owned and transformed Waterworld in Stoke-on-Trent from 1999 until its sale in 2025.

Mo is now focused on his roles at M Investment Group and Pulse Global, as well as his ongoing work in community development, mentoring, and philanthropy. His journey is one of vision, tenacity, and reinvention - from immigrant roots to building one of the UK’s most recognised leisure brands, and now stepping into a new phase.

In this special episode, Mo Chaudry, the dynamic entrepreneur opens up to Safaraz about his career transition, shedding light on his involvement with Pulse, a global gym equipment company, and his embrace of tech investments. Through his experiences, Mo illustrates the power of passion and innovation in entrepreneurship, offering listeners a unique perspective on the courage it takes to embrace change and seize new opportunities. By moving away from a victim mentality and embracing accountability, Mo demonstrates how personal and professional growth can be unlocked. This episode is a testament to the mindset and attributes necessary to achieve one's goals, making it a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs.

Mo's commitment to philanthropy and diversity underscores his inspiring journey. From supporting creative talents and Oscar-winning projects to establishing the Al Amir Foundation, Mo's active involvement in charitable endeavours shows his dedication to making a meaningful impact. We discuss his adventures in challenging bike rides and the M Club Foundation's mission to empower young people through sports. These stories highlight how Mo's hands-on approach to charity and his belief in the transformative power of sports create opportunities for young individuals to fulfil their potential, regardless of their backgrounds.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mochaudry/
https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Jon Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. They look at the differences between apprenticeships and degrees and how the different paths suit different people. It is all about having an alternative choice in training and education.
https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

This time Safaraz is in conversation with John Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. In the first half of this two-part chat, John tells us about his journey from NATO HQ in the Netherland as part of the British army to his role at the civil engineering company, Amey drawing on his love of training gained in the army.
https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

Dedicated feline behaviour expert and volunteer, Nadia, invites us to explore the complex and often misunderstood world of cats. Forget the notion that cats are merely "not dogs"—Nadia provides a wealth of insights into their unique motivations and survival instincts that remain even in a domestic setting. Our conversation takes a thoughtful turn as we discuss redefining career success, especially within the educational sector.
Finally this episode rounds off with an uplifting discussion on the power of authenticity and kindness in both personal and professional spheres.

https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

This week we hear the first half of Safaras conversation with Nadia Davies, a dedicated and inspiring leader, sharing her incredible journey at Solihull College and University Centre, where she has passionately advanced from a vocational assessor to the Director of Business Development over the past 18 years. Nadia offers a unique perspective on how the college thrives by fostering a people-centric, inclusive, and vibrant culture that mirrors its community. Her insights reveal how Solihull College not only stands out as an educational institution but also as a nurturing ground for both professional and personal growth, supporting staff and students alike in bringing their full selves to the table.

https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen

This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversations with Caren Alderwick, Head of apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains. Caren talks about how the power of education and confidence building can transform the journey back into the workforce as well as recognising and harnessing transferable skills from everyday life.

https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/
https://safaraz.co.uk/
https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book
https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen