In this episode of Close of Play, we get into the reality of running a business when the to-do list never ends. From late-night working habits and trying to create better routines, to sales pressure, hiring headaches, client expectations, practical skills, education, cars, leasing, and why sometimes a “no” is just as valuable as a “yes”.

Season 3 of the CLOSE OF PLAY Podcast kicks off with Oli & Craig back behind the mics, catching up on what’s been happening since the last series. In this episode, they talk honestly about the realities of running a business, the challenges of staffing, and why finding the right people can make or break momentum.

They also dive into one of the UK’s fastest-growing trends: padel. From social sport to serious business opportunity, Oli & Craig explore why padel is taking over and what it says about where leisure, fitness and community are heading.

This week on The Close of Play Podcast, Craig & Oli sit down with Ken from Lunia 3D – an award-winning 3D printing company based in Cardiff.

Ken shares how he went from hobby printing in his bedroom to running a cutting-edge 3D printing business offering everything from FDM, SLA, SLS, MJF and large-format printing, to hands-on workshops designed to make 3D printing more accessible!

This week, the lads are joined by Jonesey from Jonesy’s Plumbing Services and trust us, it’s a wild one. From grafting through his apprenticeship during COVID to running his own successful plumbing business by 22, Jonesey shares his journey, lessons learned, and the unfiltered reality of life on the tools. Expect blocked toilets, unexpected “treasures,” and a top 3 horror story countdown you won’t forget - including one unforgettable find in his nan’s airing cupboard. It’s messy, it’s honest, it’s classic Close of Play.

This week, Craig & Oli are back behind the mics for a catch-up on all things life, business, and chaos in between. Oli’s recovered from his stag do in Budapest, Craig just turned 34 in Turin, and Ollywood’s got a brand new HQ. They also dive into airport security gripes, exciting client projects, and a few spicy takes on world events. Unfiltered, unpolished, unapologetic – just how you like it.

This week on Close of Play, we sit down with Gastronomy by Jon, a private chef bringing restaurant-quality dining into the comfort of people’s homes. Jon shares his journey from the corporate world into private dining, what sparked the change, and how he built a business that caters to those looking for an unforgettable culinary experience. We also chat about his experiences with celebrity clients, and what it really takes to succeed in the industry.

It's been a minute! Join us for the new year's first episode as we catch up after the Christmas break and dive into what’s ahead.

In this episode of Close of Play Podcast, Craig and Oli sit down with Jonathan from Foxwood Recruitment to discuss the current state of recruitment and the new industry way of working that is hybrid. As we move further into 2023, the workforce is becoming increasingly hybrid, with many companies adopting a flexible work arrangement that combines both remote and office-based work.

Jonathan brings his wealth of experience in recruitment to the table, sharing insights on the do's and don'ts of recruitment in this evolving landscape. He also talks about the challenges and opportunities that come with the hybrid work environment and how companies can adapt their recruitment strategies to find the best talent.

Whether you're a recruiter or a job seeker, this episode provides valuable insights into the recruitment process and the future of work. So join Craig, Oli, and Jonathan for this engaging and informative discussion on the Close of Play Podcast.