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Artwork for Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali MBE

Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali MBE

Safaraz Ali
Apprenticeships
Birmingham City University
City & Guilds
Peoplecert
Facilities Management
Stoke-On-Trent
Amey
Levy Transfer
Water World
Sandwell Colleges
Lifelong Learning
Level 7 Apprenticeships
Entrepreneurship
Sandwell College
Education
Leadership
Education Partnerships
Training Providers
Military To Civilian Transition
Property Investment

Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali Social Entrepreneur, CEO of Pathway Group and proud Birmingham business leader, where he shares his insights and experiences on entrepreneurialism, having a growth mindset and getting the best out of people as well as useful information to help your grow your business, develop and build your team. Canny Conversations has now completed over 50 episodes mak... more

PublishesWeeklyEpisodes149Founded5 years ago
Number of ListenersCategories
EntrepreneurshipBusinessManagement

Listen to this Podcast

Artwork for Canny Conversations Podcast by Safaraz Ali MBE

Latest Episodes

We are back this week with the second half of our chat with Chris Goulden and Nish Mayor from the Youth Futures Foundation where we will be exploring youth employment, AI and the power of better data with, asking what needs to change so more young pe... more

We’ve had a bit of a breather, but we’re happy to return with a brand-new episode talking about youth employment, diversity and social mobility. We’re in Birmingham at the offices of Youth Futures Foundation with Chris Goulden and Nish Mayor looking ... more

In the second half of Safaeaz's conversation with Andrew Holbert we dive deep into the world of public speaking, personal growth, and the journey of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, particularly in t... more

The Canny Conversations podcast welcomes Andrew Hulbert, a successful entrepreneur who built and sold a facilities management business for $100 million. Andrew discusses his journey from starting the company in his bedroom to managing a diverse senio... more

What happens when higher education meets the dynamic world of apprenticeships?

In this episode Safaraz is in conversation with Lisa Davies about her role as Business Development Director at Birmingham City University, where she is delivering employer... more

Can apprenticeships be more than just a backup plan? Join us as we converse with Danny from Birmingham City University, who passionately argues for apprenticeships as a first-choice pathway. With Danny at the helm of apprenticeship programs, he sheds... more

Kirsty Donnelly, CEO of City & Guilds, talks to Safaraz Ali about her remarkable journey as she takes the helm under the new ownership of PeopleCert.

In this powerful episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz Ali sits down with Kirstie Donnelly MBE, t... more

Welcome to the second half of Safaraz's conversation with Lisa Capper MBE, the CEO and Principal of Sandwell Colleges. In this episode, Lisa takes us behind the scenes of the Sector Work-Based Academy Programmes (SWAPS), revealing how these innovativ... more

Key Facts

Accepts Guests
Contact Information
Podcast Host
Number of Listeners
Find out how many people listen to this podcast per episode and each month.

Recent Guests

Andrew Hulbert
Entrepreneur and investor
Founder, investor and chairman roles in multiple ventures
Episode: Andrew Hulbert FIWFM - Part 2
Lisa Davies
Business Development Director at Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University
Episode: Lisa Davies - Director of Apprenticeship Development at Birmingham City University
Danny Pardoe
Apprenticeship Growth Manager at Birmingham City University
Birmingham City University
Episode: Danny Pardoe - Apprenticeship Growth Manager at Birmingham City University
Kirstie Donnelly
CEO of City & Guilds
City & Guilds / PeopleCert
Episode: Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO at City & Guilds now part of PeopleCert discusses the sale and much more!
Lisa Capper
CEO and Principal of Sandwell Colleges
Sandwell College
Episode: Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 2
Mo Chaudry
Entrepreneur, business leader, philanthropist and show business manager
Various including Pulse Group, M Investment Group, Fitness/leisure ventures
Episode: Mo Chaudry - Part 1: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali
Jon Hornagold
Apprenticeship Manager at Amey
Amey
Episode: Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 2
John Hornagold
Apprenticeship Manager at Amey
Amey
Episode: Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 1
Nadia Davies
Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre
Solihull College and University Centre
Episode: Nadia Davies, Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre - Part 2

Host

Safaraz Ali
Host of Canny Conversations Podcast

Reviews

5.0 out of 5 stars from 11 ratings
  • Very easy listening

    This is a radio 4 style easy listen that is very reflective in its approach. I’m glad that is the case as there is so many of these are ‘Ra Ra’ Gary Vaynerchuck style podcast and not everyone needs to be the same. Some great nuggets and reminders. Liking it.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Humbeau
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • From the heart of a great business man

    Some great advice bred from real experience throughout the business sector over a number of years. Honest, straight talking with NO agendas! - Highly refreshing and very easy listening. The honesty and humble nature of Safaraz’s delivery is improving with each episode as he gains confidence. 5 stars.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    hosting professional
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Some great commandments for business

    Even if I say myself - it’s an attempt to be a charming relaxed approach well considered for dealing with problems, overcoming barriers and helping you, your teams and business grow.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    @safarazali
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Straight forward, simple but very effective.

    This is a very thoughtful podcast by Safaraz. These are honest discussions with no pretences, and no extra drama. Great points with loads of takeaways. Keep up the great work. Overall lots of value and a insightful listen. 5/5

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    ZOZRis
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Surprising frank

    This is one of those podcast shows that just is so direct and frank on a number of levels - sharing vulnerabilities, techniques and thoughts very openly and without holding back.

    There’s some real gems here and I would recommend you take a listen - my favourite one thus far is Bamboo Tree thinking followed by Brand and Reputation.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Eias Bel
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Very easy listening

    This is a radio 4 style easy listen that is very reflective in its approach.

    I’m glad that is the case as there is so many of these are ‘Ra Ra’ Gary Vaynerchuck style podcast and not everyone needs to be the same.

    Some great nuggets and reminders. Liking it.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Humbeau
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Re: Honest and heartfelt

    An honest and heartfelt discussion on the all important topic of leadership between Safaraz and Adrian. A relevant, eminently sensible and well-structured discourse.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    BOJ NG
    United Kingdom5 years ago
  • Very informative and relatable

    Having known Saf for over 5 years, this podcast was like real discussion the man himself.

    The conversations are delivered in a cool clam collected way, sharing his knowledge, experience and insight into working in the education sector.

    Easy listening for anyone interested in enhancing their awareness of things business.

    Apple Podcasts
    5
    Chan'o
    United Kingdom5 years ago

Listeners Say

Key themes from listener reviews, highlighting what works and what could be improved about the show.

Balanced mix of business, education, and social impact topics that stay engaging and relatable
Insightful and practical leadership discussions that cut straight to actionable takeaways
Honest, no-nonsense conversations with real-world experience
Hosts bring calm, thoughtful interviewing style with clear expertise in British business and education ecosystems

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Talking Points

Recent interactions between the hosts and their guests.

Mo Chaudry - Part 2: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali
Q: What advice would you give entrepreneurs preparing for a major exit?
As you prepare for exit, prioritize building a strong management team, surround yourself with professionals for finance and legal, and ensure day-to-day operations stay focused so the business remains attractive to buyers; timing and preparation are everything.
Mo Chaudry - Part 2: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali
Q: So, Mo, you're very much invested in the local area; how important is the community to you and what have you learned from Stoke-on-Trent?
The community is part of my life; staying, marrying here, and feeling connected to its people has shaped my identity and my business approach, showing that local roots can underpin long-term success.
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 2
Q: For listeners aiming to build sustainable, inclusive teams, what practical steps would you recommend for succession planning and strategic alignment?
She recommends clarifying a short- and medium-term vision, aligning around three-year goals, simplifying processes as organizations scale, and creating structures that empower others to lead, including shared risk and transparent collaboration across campuses.
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 2
Q: Thank you. Lisa, could you talk a little about leadership and how you've evolved as a leader?
She describes leadership as multifaceted, encompassing coaching, advocacy, and self-understanding. She emphasizes knowing yourself, seeking feedback, using diverse perspectives to strengthen proposals, and empowering others to lead as part of a high-performing team.
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 1
Q: How have recent campus developments and partnerships with local employers impacted student outcomes and regional workforce readiness?
The new campuses and partnerships with firms like Hydropower Dynamics provide meaningful work placements and paid roles for graduates, helping learners move into engineering and manufacturing careers while the college aligns its curriculum with employer needs to sustain regional prosperity.

Audience Metrics

Listeners, social reach, demographics and more for this podcast.

Listeners per Episode
Gender Skew
Location
Interests
Professions
Age Range
Household Income
Social Media Reach

Frequently Asked Questions About This Podcast

What is This Podcast about and what kind of topics does it cover?

This show targets business leaders, founders, and professionals exploring growth, leadership, people development, and practical strategy for scaling organizations. Episodes frequently feature entrepreneurs, education executives, and regional business leaders discussing growth, culture, leadership, workforce development, and the evolving landscape of apprenticeships and lifelong learning. A standout trait is its emphasis on real-world experience, candid storytelling, and tangible lessons drawn from UK-based ventures and institutions, with a strong focus on building teams, shaping culture, and driving social impact. Listeners are likely drawn to actionable insights, leadership tips, and perspectives on regional opportunity, education partners... more

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this podcast launched 5 years ago and published 149 episodes to date. You can find more information about this podcast including rankings, audience demographics and engagement in our podcast database.

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What guests have appeared on this podcast?

Recent guests on this podcast include:

1. Andrew Hulbert
2. Lisa Davies
3. Danny Pardoe
4. Kirstie Donnelly
5. Lisa Capper
6. Mo Chaudry
7. Jon Hornagold
8. John Hornagold

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