Small Actions Big Ripples

About Small Actions Big Ripples

Welcome to the ‘Small Actions, Big Ripples’, a podcast that shines a spotlight on individuals whose small, intentional actions create waves of positive change. In every episode, we celebrate the innovators and problem-solvers working within their organisations or purpose-driven businesses to make a meaningful difference in the wider community. From sustainable initiatives that protect our planet, to community support programs that uplift lives, you will hear stories that will inspire and maybe even spark your own ripple effect. Produced and recorded at Opus Media Productions studio.

Publisher

Stavros Kokkinos @opusmediaproductions

Category

society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

28 Jan 2025

Latest episode

30 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

16 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   30 Sept 2026

   Seeing beyond barriers. | Swan Staar-Slogrove

   What does it really mean to live with sight loss, and what can we do to make our communities more inclusive? In this episode of 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast, I’m joined by Swan Staar-Slogrove, Charity Manager at Sight Loss Shropshire, for a thought-provoking conversation about sight loss, visual impairment, accessibility, inclusion and the practical support that can make a profound difference to people's lives. We explore some of the common misconceptions about sight loss and blindness, the challenges people can face when adapting to changing vision, and how the right support can help people rebuild confidence, independence and connection with their communities. Swan also shares her vision for the future of sight loss support in Shropshire, including the growing role of AI and assistive technology, the importance of collaboration between organisations, and the challenges created by an ageing population, rural communities, employment and accessibility. We also discuss how individuals, businesses and organisations can support Sight Loss Shropshire through volunteering, donations, collaboration and by simply becoming more aware of the barriers that people living with sight loss can encounter every day. If you're interested in sight loss and disability inclusion, this conversation offers plenty of food for thought. About the charity 'Sight Loss Shropshire'. Sight Loss Shropshire provides support for people living with sight loss across Shropshire, helping people adapt to changes in their vision and maintain independence, confidence and quality of life.Find out more about the work of 'Sight Loss Shropshire' and how you can support their work https://sightlossshropshire.org.uk/ About the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast 🎙️Small Actions, Big Ripples is produced by Stavros Kokkinos at Opus Media Productions, sharing the stories of purpose-driven people and organisations, whose small, intentional actions are creating positive change in their communities or for the planet. If you enjoyed this episode, please Like 👍 | Comment 💬 | Subscribe 🔔 to help us share more stories of people making a difference.

2. 

   16 Aug 2026

   Can disability become an advantage in entrepreneurship? | Helen Pugh & Kelly Ward

   Can different abilities unlock limitless potential in business? And what if the very experiences that can make traditional employment difficult could become a powerful advantage in entrepreneurship? In this episode of the Small Actions, Big Ripples podcast, I’m joined by Helen Pugh, founder, and Kelly Ward, director of Ablepreneurs® a purpose-driven network supporting disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs on their road to business success. This conversation explores how we can challenge traditional ideas about work, entrepreneurship and success, and rethink what people with disabilities, chronic illness and neurodivergence can bring to business and the workplace. Helen and Kelly share their personal journeys to Ablepreneurs® and discuss: - What “Different abilities. Limitless potential.” means in practice. - The barriers faced by disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs in the workplace. - How lived experience can become the impetus to start a business. - Why resilience, creativity and different ways of thinking can become powerful assets in business. - Why employers need to rethink how they understand productivity, consistency and workplace inclusion. - How to build a business around your body, brain and energy rather than trying to fit into the traditional 9-to-5 model. We also discuss the launch of the UK’s first National Ablepreneurs Day, taking place on 16 September 2026 at the Wroxeter Hotel in Shropshire, UK. Helen explains how the idea for National Ablepreneurs Day came about and how she is using her lived experience to lead a movement designed to celebrate and champion disabled, chronically ill and neurodivergent entrepreneurs. Helen and Kelly hope the Ablepreneurs® movement will help change the narrative around disability, employment opportunities, entrepreneurship and inclusion in the workplace, while encouraging employers to recognise the talent and potential that employees with rich and complex lived experiences can bring. 👉 Find out more about National Ablepreneurs Day: https://ablepreneurs.co.uk If you’re interested in disabled entrepreneurship, neurodivergent entrepreneurship, chronic illness and work, inclusive employment, workplace accessibility, or building a business around your own abilities, this episode offers a powerful perspective on what the future of work and entrepreneurship could look like. 🎥 Recorded at the Opus Media Productions podcast studio in Shropshire, UK. If you enjoyed this episode, please Like 👍 | Comment 💬 | Subscribe 🔔 to help us share more stories of people making a difference. _________________________________________ About the Small Actions, Big Ripples Podcast' Small Actions, Big Ripples' shines a light on the people, charities, social enterprises and purpose-driven organisations creating meaningful impact through everyday actions. Each episode explores the stories, ideas and experiences behind positive social change, proving that small actions really can create big ripples.

3. 

   23 Jul 2026

   Can horses really change lives? | Hayley Jay

   What happens when a child who has never experienced success suddenly finds confidence, laughter and independence through the bond with a horse? In this inspiring episode of the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples Podcast', I am joined by Hayley Jay, Senior Manager at The Cavalier Centre, a Shropshire charity dedicated to improving lives through equestrian activities. We explore the remarkable impact horses can have on people living with physical disabilities, SEN, trauma and mental health challenges, and why patience, kindness and empathy are at the heart of everything the charity does. In this ep we discuss ✅ How horses help transform confidence and wellbeing ✅ The unique bond between horses and people ✅ The life lessons horses teach us about patience, kindness and empathy ✅ The future vision for The Cavalier Centre Whether you love horses, interested in equine-assisted therapy, or simply enjoy uplifting stories of positive impact, this conversation is for you. 🎥 Recorded at the Opus Media Productions podcast studio in Shropshire, UK. If you enjoyed this episode, please Like 👍 | Comment 💬 | Subscribe 🔔 to help us share more stories of people making a difference. _________________________________________ About the Small Actions, Big Ripples Podcast' Small Actions, Big Ripples' shines a light on the people, charities, social enterprises and purpose-driven organisations creating meaningful impact through everyday actions. Each episode explores the stories, ideas and experiences behind positive social change, proving that small actions really can create big ripples.

4. 

   1 Jun 2026

   Building stronger communities through acts of kindness | Joanna Morris & Ruth Martin

   How do Community Foundations create life-changing impact for individuals, families and local communities? In this episode of the Small Actions Big Ripples podcast, I sit down with Ruth Martin (Trustee) and Joanna Morris (CEO) from Shropshire Community Foundation to explore how small actions, community support and local philanthropy are creating meaningful social impact across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin. Ruth and Joanna share their personal journeys into the Foundation, what inspires their passion for community work, and how they help connect people, businesses and organisations to create positive change where it matters most. We discuss: ✅ What Shropshire Community Foundation does and how it supports local communities ✅ How community grants help grassroots organisations make a real difference ✅ The inspiring story behind Zach's Fund and its impact on families facing cancer ✅ Why volunteering, giving and community partnerships matter ✅ How businesses can create social value through local investment ✅ Building stronger, more connected communities across Shropshire, Telford and Wrekin ✅ The power of kindness, collaboration and small actions that create big ripples This uplifting conversation highlights the incredible work being done by local charities, volunteers and community leaders who are helping people thrive through support, compassion and action. Whether you're interested in community development, social impact, volunteering, charity leadership, local giving, philanthropy or creating positive change in your own community, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights. #CommunityImpact #SocialImpact #ShropshireCommunityFoundation 🎙️ Guests: Ruth Martin – Trustee, Shropshire Community Foundation Joanna Morris – CEO, Shropshire Community Foundation Visit https://www.shropshirecommunityfoundation.org.uk/ 📍 Recorded at the Opus Media Productions studio. If you enjoyed this episode, please like, comment and subscribe to help us share more stories of people making a difference.

5. 

   6 May 2026

   What would animals say to us if they could speak? | Megan-Morris Jones

   What does it really take to rescue and rehabilitate wildlife? In this powerful episode of the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast, I am joined by Megan Morris-Jones, founder of Cuan Wildlife Rescue, one of the UK’s largest and most respected wildlife rescue and rehabilitation charities. From humble beginnings to building a nationally recognised conservation organisation, Megan shares her inspiring journey and the real impact of dedicating her life to saving injured, orphaned, and vulnerable wildlife. 💡 In this episode, we explore: How Megan turned a passion for wildlife into a life-saving organisation. The realities of rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals. Unforgettable rescue stories that have stayed with her. The deeper connection between humans and wildlife. Lessons in resilience, compassion, and creating real impact. This is an eye-opening and inspiring conversation for anyone passionate about wildlife, conservation, or building something that truly makes a real impact for our planet. 👉 Stay inspired, share and subscribe. Follow the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast on my YouTube channel for more eps and inspiring stories of people who do good things for the community and the planet https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFdaZx1prsDnb1Xh1C9gCvLT2VNr_OfzR&si=EWy6DAiqZdp_shsJ

6. 

   30 Apr 2026

   Community building and social impact should be at the core of every business | Kim Gilmour

   How do you build a purpose-led business with community and social impact at its core? In this episode of the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast, I’m joined by Kim Gilmour, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimgilmour-connect-marketing/) founder of Connect Consultancy and a passionate advocate for community, social impact, and supporting women in business. We explore how her small, intentional actions have helped create meaningful change, in her business and beyond. Kim shares her journey, including: - Building community initiatives that empower female entrepreneurs - Her work in charity fundraising and giving back- Volunteering to preserve English heritage - The awards and recognition she’s received along the way- How she helps small businesses improve their online credibility and visibility If you're a SME founder, female entrepreneur, or someone looking to build a a community around their business, this episode is for you. 👉 Stay inspired, share and subscribe. Follow the 'Small Actions, Big Ripples' podcast on my YouTube channel for more eps and inspiring stories of people who do good things for the community and the planet https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLFdaZx1prsDnb1Xh1C9gCvLT2VNr_OfzR&si=EWy6DAiqZdp_shsJ

7. 

   2 Mar 2026

   Ep. 09, with guest Johnny Themans from Good2Great

   In this episode of the Small Actions, Big Ripples podcast, I am joined by Johnny Themans, co-founder of Good2Great, a purpose-driven organisation on a mission to boost local economic prosperity by helping businesses thrive through coaching, training and consultancy. Johnny shares what drove him to co-found Good2Great and the personal experiences that shaped his passion for supporting founders on their journey. We also explore: The recurring challenges founders face in the early stages of building a business. Why Good2Great’s, people-first approach to business support is so crucial in the early stages of a business journey. How equipping founders with the right tools, confidence and know-how strengthens not just individual companies, but creates a powerful ripple effect across the wider local economy. If you’re starting out, scaling up, or supporting others on their business journey, this episode is for you. Find out more about Good2Great and their work here https://good-2-great.co.uk/ (https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXhDSW1OcHk0Wm80SUgtbzdxZmJRb1lzMFItd3xBQ3Jtc0tsQUVFYjVmLVlmR0w2WTU3a1AwaTRIVWE3VVpQQ2VCRmZqUjd0dDVaSTZGMlhjeU1sY2dxWUxtZVNJN1lvbi1IQ1NhQmd6b2p3RzVabm50ZGdHZXBmT2hXdjYwV3RVTUxtb3cwZzZHdk1zS01VeHhpcw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fgood-2-great.co.uk%2F&v=6Yo6oy-l2pY) Like, subscribe, and share. Your support helps the message reach even further.

8. 

   12 Feb 2026

   Ep. 08, with guests Seb Slater & EJ Hopson-VandenBos from Shrewsbury BID

   What happens when purpose, collaboration, and vision lead to national recognition? In this episode of the Small Actions, Big Ripples podcast, I sit down with Seb Slater and EJ Hopson-VandenBos, the driving forces behind two award-winning Shrewsbury-based not-for-profit partnerships: Shrewsbury BID (Business Improvement District) and Work in Shrewsbury. In this episode, Seb and EJ share behind-the-scenes insights into the ideas and actions that, over the past 12 months, led to: Shrewsbury being shortlisted twice in the prestigious Visa “Let’s Celebrate Towns Awards” Securing nearly £800,000 in UKSPF funding for the Work in Shrewsbury and Shrewsbury Moves initiatives We explore how the projects and services delivered by Shrewsbury BID and Work in Shrewsbury: Promote the town nationally Improve the local environment Support businesses Give the business community a strong, united voice on key issues We talk community impact, purpose, collaboration, and what it truly takes to create meaningful, lasting change for Shrewsbury and its people. If this episode inspires you, please like, subscribe, and share. Your support helps the message reach even further.

9. 

   27 Nov 2025

   Ep. 07, the story of Julia Buckley, Member of Parliament for Shrewsbury.

   In this special ep. of the Small Actions Big Ripples podcast, I welcome to the Opus Media Productions studio Dr. Julia Buckley, Member of Parliament for Shrewsbury, for a candid conversation about her life and work in public service. Julia speaks passionately about community, leadership, and the deep ties that guide her work in Shrewsbury. Highlights include: ➡️ Her journey into politics and commitment to local representation. ➡️ A powerful story of saving a local youth club from closure, through a community crowdfunding campaign. ➡️ Honest reflections on challenges and what keeps her motivated. She also revealed exciting plans and insights into upcoming projects that will shape the town's future. If you ever wondered what it takes to step into public service, and find out what sacrifices sit behind that choice, this ep is for you. Like, subscribe, and share if this episode inspired you. Your support helps the message reach even further.

10. 

    14 Nov 2025

    Ep. 06 The story of Paul and Sam from the charity Aquarius

    What happens when people dedicate their lives to helping others rebuild theirs? In the latest ep of the Small Actions Big Ripples podcast, I am joined by Sam Perry and Paul Wilson from the charity Aquarius https://aquarius.org.uk/ (https://aquarius.org.uk/) for a powerful and uplifting conversation about community, recovery and hope. We find how Paul and Sam, turned their personal struggles with addiction, into a powerful source of inner strength and courage. Their decision to seek help didn’t just transform their lives. It sparked a ripple effect that’s now empowering them to help others overcome addiction, and turn their lives round. In this ep, we discuss: - Sam's and Paul's own personal journey to recovery and what led them to become involved with Aquarius and its mission. - The life-changing impact of free, confidential support on individuals and communities.- The challenges of stigma attached to addiction. - How Aquarius continues to reach and help more people who need support to overcome addictive behaviours. Our conversation left me feeling hopeful, energised, and reminded of the ripple effect we all create when we use our own lived experiences to help others. Like, subscribe, and share if this episode inspired you. Your support helps the message reach even further.

11. 

    13 Aug 2025

    Ep.05 The story of Emma Loat, 5th gen owner of Forsyths Music Shop in Mcr

    🎹 What does it take to keep a Manchester cultural icon alive since 1857? In this special episode of Small Actions Big Ripples, recorded on location in Manchester, I sit down with Emma Loat, 5th-generation owner of Forsyth Brothers, the legendary music store on Deansgate in Mcr city centre. We recorded right on the piano floor, surrounded by the rich and illustrious history, atmosphere, and melodies that have been a feature of Manchester’s music scene for over 160 years. As a former RNCM student who spent countless hours here browsing sheet music, chatting with musicians, and soaking up the vibe, this conversation felt like a homecoming. Emma shares candid insights into: 🎶 The triumphs & challenges of running a family business in a changing retail world 🎶 How Forsyths thrives despite online competition 🎶 The store’s remarkable history & vision for the future 🎶 The power of music to strengthen community spirit This is a story of resilience, heritage, and keeping culture alive through a genuine love of music. Learn more about Forsyths: https://www.forsyths.co.uk/ 🎥🎧 Follow the Small Actions Big Ripples podcast here: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/0mLm5ROJMfjjPq9eeFPnjr YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@OpusMediaProductionsUK/podcasts Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/small-actions-big-ripples/id1796370318 Want to appear as a guest in a future episode? The Small Actions Big Ripples podcast is all about creating social value, championing positive change, and showing that everyday actions can make a meaningful impact. If your work resonates with these themes and you'd like to be featured as a guest, send an email to stavros@opusmediaproductions.co.uk with a short description of your work and why you think it’s a good fit. Because small actions can create big ripples!

12. 

    13 Jun 2025

    Ep.04 The story of Adam Elshaw, the heart and hands behind Adam’s Acre

    Adam Elshaw, founder of Adam’s Acre, discusses his gardening service's unique approach to creating social impact and changing lives by connecting people with nature and offering support through therapy dogs in this interview.

13. 

    23 May 2025

    Ep.03 The story of Gwynneth Slavin, Account Manager at the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce

    Account Manager Gwynneth Slavin discusses her passion for supporting local businesses and building a strong community across Shropshire in an interview with Sian Brennan Todd, revealing the impact of her work.

14. 

    22 Mar 2025

    Ep.02 - The story of Amanda Jones, philanthropist and founder of Shropshire Supports Refugees

    In this special episode of the 'Small Actions Big Ripples' podcast, I welcome to the Opus Media Productions podcast studio, Amanda Jones, the founder and visionary behind the social enterprise that is Shropshire Supports Refugees. We delve deeper into Amanda's why and mission to try and successfully integrate refugees, asylum seekers and migrants into the vibrant fabric of rural Shropshire. We’ll find out what inspired her to found the charity Shropshire Supports Refugees, the impact it has had on people's lives and her vision for the future. To find out more about the charity Shropshire Supports Refugees, visit https://www.shropshiresupportsrefugees.org/This podcast series is produced and presented by Stavros Kokkinos @opusmediaproductionsSubscribe and follow to hear stories that will uplift, inspire and maybe even spark your own ripple effect.Follow onhttps://www.instagram.com/opusmediaproductions/https://www.linkedin.com/in/opusmediaproductions/https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559557472820Do you fancy appearing as a guest in a future ep?The podcast's core themes centre around creating social value and impact, for the community and our planet, and the belief that small everyday actions can make a big difference. Collaborating with people whose work resonates with the podcast's theme, is simply the main criteria when selecting potential guests.If you believe that your work aligns with the podcast's theme and would like to appear as a guest in a future episode, email stavros@opusmediaproductions.co.uk with a brief description of what you do and why you think your project, or initiative, would make a good match.

15. 

    31 Jan 2025

    Chris Taylor, the visionary behind SY.gigs

    In this first episode of the Small Actions Big Ripples podcast, I welcome to the Opus Media Productions podcast studio, Chris Taylor, the visionary behind SY.gigs, a series of alternative music events in Shrewsbury, with a mission to promote mental wellbeing and foster community connections through live music and the creative arts. We’ll find out what inspired Chris to start SY.gigs, the impact of these special live music events on the local community and his vision for the future. Music tracks featured in this ep (we are grateful that all artists kindly agreed for their music to be featured in this ep) - Audrey Carmes: 'Micro-Macro' from the album Quelque chose s'est dissipé https://audreycarmes.bandcamp.com/album/quelque-chose-sest-dissip & https://www.instagram.com/audrey_carmes/ - Martin Rebelski: 'Eternal' from the album Monochrome https://rebelski.bandcamp.com/album/monochrome - Adam Scrimshire: 'Hawthorn' from the album Music for Autumn Lovers https://www.scrimshire.com/ & https://scrimshire.bandcamp.com/album/music-for-autumn-lovers-2 To find out more about SY.gigs, visit https://sygigs.com/ Produced and presented by Stavros Kokkinos @opusmediaproductionsSubscribe and follow to hear stories that will uplift, inspire and maybe even spark your own ripple effect.Follow on https://www.instagram.com/opusmediaproductions/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/opusmediaproductions/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559557472820 Do you fancy appearing as a guest in a future ep? The podcast's core themes centre around creating social value and impact, for the community and our planet, and the belief that small everyday actions can make a big difference. Collaborating with people whose work resonates with the podcast's theme, is simply the main criteria when selecting potential guests.If you believe that your work aligns with the podcast's theme and would like to appear as a guest in a future episode, email stavros@opusmediaproductions.co.uk with a brief description of what you do and why you think your project, or initiative, would make a good match.

16. 

    28 Jan 2025

    Small Actions Big Ripples Podcast series introduction trailer

    Have you ever wondered how one small action can lead to something so much bigger? And who are the changemakers who work tirelessly behind the scenes, proving that the smallest actions can leave the greatest ripples, shaping a better world for us all? These are the Qs at the heart of my new series Small ActionsBig Ripples, a podcast that shines a spotlight on individualswhose small, intentional actions create waves of positive change. In every episode, we celebrate the innovators and problem-solvers working within their organizations or purpose-driven businesses to make a meaningful difference in the wider community. From sustainable initiatives that protect our planet to community support programs that uplift lives, I will explore the inspiring stories of people whose efforts—big or small—create lasting impacts. Small Actions Big Ripples, stories that will uplift, inspire, andmaybe even spark your own ripple effect. Produced and presented by Stavros Kokkinos @opusmediaproductions Subscribe and follow to hear stories that will uplift, inspire and maybe even spark your own ripple effect. Follow on https://www.instagram.com/opusmediaproductions/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/opusmediaproductions/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559557472820 Do you fancy appearing as a guest in a future ep? The podcast's core themes centre around creating social value and impact, for the community and our planet, and the belief that small everyday actions can make a big difference. Collaborating with people whose work resonates with the podcast's theme, is simply the main criteria when selecting potential guests.If you believe that your work aligns with the podcast's theme and would like to appear as a guest in a future episode, email stavros@opusmediaproductions.co.uk with a brief description of what you do and why you think your project, or initiative, would make a good match.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

YouTube views

3,807

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Spotify

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 22 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

4

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

32