This week on the show, I’m joined by the incredible Gem O’Reilly, international country singer-songwriter and guitarist, with special thanks to Chris Groundsell for his guitar.

Dubbed by BBC Radio as “The British Taylor Swift”, Gem has been making waves in the music industry since she was signed at just 17. With a No. 7 hit in the UK Country Charts and four original albums broadcast across national BBC Radio, she’s a true force in modern country music.

Her latest release, Fire, dropped in late 2024, showcasing four brand-new songs recorded live with her band at a festival. You can find it now on Spotify, Apple Music, and all major music platforms.

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💬 On the Mic Today

We’ll be chatting about:

• The Story Behind “Fire” – what inspired the album and the messages Gem hopes to share.
• Staying Motivated – her tips for thriving in a busy, creative life.
• Getting Started – her journey into music and early training.
• Musical Heroes – the artists who shaped her style.
• Why Country? – what draws her to the genre.
• Song Spotlight – the deep meaning behind Lost in a Storm.

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📅 1230 TWC News & Dates for Your Diary

• Next Week’s Special Guests:

o Hot Spot: Gloria Jones with news from Sierra Leone.

o Femi Yusoof – Careers & Business Lecturer at Goldsmiths University.

• 13 August – TV Show (this Wednesday)
• 20 August – Networking Extravaganza Walk ’n Talk at Kelsey Park – open to all!
• ABBBAs Awards – applications open! I’m on the judging panel (and yes, I’m thorough – no favouritism here).
• 22 October – Evolution of Finance for Businesswomen – Focus on Mental Health & Finance with keynote speaker Penny Power OBE.

o Venue: Bromley Council Chamber (seats 180 – it’s stunning!).

o Expect sponsorship opportunities, mini-expo & more.

• 8 November – Lord Mayor of London’s Parade – I’m honoured to be part of it.

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🎂 Birthday Shout-Outs

Happy Birthday to everyone celebrating this week, especially Gem’s talented violinist, Charlie! 🎻

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🙏 Thank You!

Huge thanks to Gem O’Reilly for joining me today – and of course to you, my wonderful listeners. See you next week for more inspiring guests, lively conversation, and community connection.

Stay safe and keep connected. 💙

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https://1230.co.uk/events/nature-networking-extravaganza-walk-talk-connect-at-kelsey-park-beckenham-20-august-2025/?occurrence=2025-08-20

https://1230.co.uk/events/clone-of-1230-twc-business-beat-radio-6-882-979-126-573-638-240-321-885-239-465-234-451-596-581-786-418-343-847-353-874-541/?occurrence=2025-08-18

https://1230.co.uk/calendar/

https://twcbusinessbeat.podbean.com/