In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we speak with John Baker, Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse, whose lifelong love for horse racing began with Red Rum’s legendary Grand National win. From his career beginnings in journalism to leading Aintree Racecourse and now guiding one of Britain’s oldest independent courses, John shares a powerful vision for the future of Newton Abbot, aiming to make it the best racecourse, pound for pound, in the UK.

We explore how the racecourse is evolving to meet modern expectations, welcoming new audiences, and strengthening ties with the Torbay community as it approaches its 160th anniversary.

What We Cover:

We talk with John Baker about what it takes to create a standout visitor experience at Newton Abbot Racecourse, from themed events and local engagement to celebrating 160 years of history. John shares his thoughts on leadership, legacy, and the future of business in Torbay. Plus, we throw in a Grand National challenge and a fun quick-fire game of Race Day or Rain Delay.

Join the Business Club at Newton Abbot Racecourse:

Choose from membership packages that include sponsorships, tickets, discounts, and more! Email Jenny Paton, jenny@newtonabbotracing.com for more details.

Guest Bio:
John Baker is Chief Executive of Newton Abbot Racecourse and former Managing Director of Aintree Racecourse. With a 30-year career spanning journalism, sport and venue leadership, John is a respected figure in UK racing. His work now focuses on delivering outstanding visitor experiences and keeping Newton Abbot at the heart of regional culture, heritage and entertainment.

Special Segment:
We close the episode with a few words from Alison Upton, Philanthropy and Engagement Manager at RowcroftHospice, highlighting the essential work they do in our region and how businesses can support their mission with their new Accumulator Challenge.

Email Lisa Whittaker to see how your business can get started! Lisa.whittaker@rowcrofthospice.org.uk or call 01803 217628

Resources and Links:
🏇Explore Newton AbbotRacecourse
🎧More episodes: RivieraConnect Podcast
💛Support RowcroftHospice

Redefining Connection with John Harvey, Founder of The Samphire Club

Episode Description:
In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we’re joined by John Harvey, founder of The Samphire Club and a trusted connector in the South West business scene. Known for curating meaningful business relationships grounded in trust and generosity, John shares his thoughts on leadership, slow networking, and the art of building real human connection in a digital world.

We also explore his approach to making the most of events like Riviera Connect, how to follow up meaningfully, and what it takes to turn occasional attendees into loyal community members.

Plus – a special segment with Devon Air Ambulance Trust:
Before we close, we hand over to Jo Rigby, Head of Fundraising, and Lottie from Devon Air Ambulance Trust. Lottie shares exciting news about two upcoming fundraising events:

• Devon HeliHike on 5th July – a scenic 14 or 26-mile challenge

• Inflatable Race Day on 9th August – a wildly fun event with routes from 2.5 miles to 15km

We discuss how local businesses, participants and volunteers can get involved and support the incredible life-saving work of the charity across our region.

What We Cover:

• The origin and ethos of The Samphire Club

• What genuine, generous networking looks like in 2024

• John’s advice on building real community and follow-through at large events

• A case study on shifting event culture from transactional to transformational

• Career reflections, personal growth, and what success means now

• A fun three-word game exploring Torbay, networking, and Riviera Connect

• The future of business in the South West

• How to get involved with Devon Air Ambulance’s upcoming events

John Harvey is an author and the founder of The Samphire Club, a values-led business community built on trust, conversation and connection.

Jo Rigby is Head of Fundraising at Devon Air Ambulance Trust, with a mission to connect communities with the life-saving work of this essential regional charity.

Resources and Links:
👉 Discover The Samphire Club

👉 Learn more about Riviera Connect Expo 2025
👉 Get involved with Devon Air Ambulance

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Jon-Paul Hedge, Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council and strategic lead behind the Torbay Story. From his roots in local journalism to his leadership roles in culture and communications, Jon-Paul brings a fresh perspective on how storytelling, civic pride and community engagement are helping shape Torbay’s future. We talk place-making, identity, leadership and the power of a 2,700-strong Champions Network.

What We Cover:

• How Jon-Paul’s career journey informs his place-based leadership

• The evolution of the Torbay Story as a tool for economic and cultural transformation

• The role of the Torbay Place Leadership Board

• How local businesses and communities can engage and thrive

• Insights from the 3,000-strong Champions Network

• “Coastal Compass”: A fun game exploring meaning across the region

• A real-life scenario: connecting small businesses to the bigger picture

• Jon-Paul’s lasting leadership advice and outlook on Torbay’s future

  
  

About Jon-Paul Hedge

Jon-Paul Hedge is Interim Place Manager at Torbay Council, helping lead the Torbay Story and championing the region's narrative locally and nationally. With a background spanning journalism, cultural programming and strategic communications, JP is passionate about helping people see their place with pride, purpose and potential.

Resources and Links:
👉 Learn more about the Torbay Story
👉 Download the Torbay Story Digital Toolkit
👉 Join the Torbay Champions Network

In this episode of the Riviera Connect Podcast, we sit down with Carolyn Custerson, Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, and a leading figure in the transformation of Torbay’s tourism economy. Carolyn shares her leadership journey, the strategic vision behind year-round tourism, and the innovations driving the English Riviera’s £500 million visitor economy. We discuss the impact of strategic partnerships, the future of tourism marketing, and what it takes to build resilience in the face of major challenges.

What We Cover:

• Leadership lessons from navigating industry challenges

• The future of the Devon & Partners LVEP collaboration

• How tourism marketing must evolve to stay competitive

• Unlocking opportunities for year-round tourism in Torbay

• Carolyn’s personal leadership principles for success

• The English Riviera lightning round: local hidden gems and personal favourites

• Future opportunities and challenges for Torbay’s business community

About Carolyn Custerson:
Carolyn is the Chief Executive of the English Riviera BID Company, leading destination marketing strategies that deliver a £75:£1 return on investment. A champion for sustainable tourism growth and strategic collaboration, she is shaping the future of The English Riviera as a vibrant, year-round destination.

Learn More:
Explore our incredible attractions, events and business opportunities at www.englishriviera.co.uk

Get involved in the Southwest Visitor Economy Hub: https://swvehub.co.uk/

Read the Torbay Council Destination Management Plan here: https://www.torbay.gov.uk/council/policies/economic-regeneration/dmp/

Learn more about SUPHub here: https://suphub.co.uk/ and download the digital toolkit.

The Riviera Connect Podcast is a series of interviews with business leaders from across the English Riviera, running throughout the year in the lead-up to the Riviera Connect Expo on Thursday 16 October 2025. We explore the stories, insights and ambitions shaping business, tourism and hospitality in our region. Presented in collaboration with the English Riviera BID Company and the Torbay Business Forum, this podcast showcases the people and ideas driving growth, innovation and success across Torbay and beyond.

To book your expo booth or get yourself a ticket to attend, please visit https://riviera-connect.co.uk/

Sponsored by Konsileo Insurance and Treat Marketing.