Welcome to the very first episode of the newly rebranded Shaping The North East.

To kick off this new chapter, we're joined by Lewis Donaldson, founder of L.Donaldson Massage in Aberdeen, for a conversation about self-care, entrepreneurship and the changing ways people choose to invest in themselves.

Lewis shares his journey from studying media at university to building a successful massage therapy business, why he believes a personalised, holistic approach to health delivers the best outcomes, and his thoughts on the rise of larger therapy chains that often sacrifice individuality for convenience.

We also discuss changing attitudes towards disposable income, why more people are prioritising wellbeing over traditional nights out, and how the continued growth of L.Donaldson Massage has led to an exciting move into a new city centre studio.

Shaping The North East explores the people, ideas and ventures defining the region's next chapter. Follow the podcast to hear more conversations with the individuals helping shape the future of the North East.

Follow L.Donaldson Massage:

https://www.ldonaldsonmassage.com

https://www.instagram.com/l.donaldsonmassage/

https://www.facebook.com/p/L-Donaldson-Massage-61568274151702/

In this episode (sponsored by KLT Networking), Chris sits down with Amanda and Bob Law from Amanda Law Mortgages to explore the journey behind the business and the family that powers it.

Amanda shares how she built her career in finance and took the leap to launch her own mortgage business, while Bob reflects on his career in the oil and gas sector before making the decision to join the company full-time. Together, they discuss life in Aberdeen, raising a young family, navigating the challenges and opportunities of working as a married couple, and learning how to play to their individual strengths.

We also talk about entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership, teamwork, and the importance of understanding how to work together effectively both at home and in the workplace. Amanda and Bob offer an honest insight into building a successful mortgage business while maintaining a strong family life, as well as their vision for the future of Amanda Law Mortgages.

Keep up to date with Amanda Law Mortgages here:

https://amandalaw-mortgages.com

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61560264342446

https://www.instagram.com/amandalawmortgages

https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-law-cemap-b27a401a8/

https://www.tiktok.com/@UC0-m0cWMQ6HPG2xiPqLyQAg

https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-law-6b310737/

If you're interested in entrepreneurship, financial services, career transitions, family businesses, or the realities of building a company with your partner, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical lessons. Don't forget to subscribe, follow, and leave a review if you enjoy the conversation.

Amanda Law Mortgages is a trading style of Aberdein Considine LLP who is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority

Aberdeen is home to an incredible range of musicians and artists, but many never get the exposure they deserve. Glen Gauld, founder of North City Signal, explains how his platform is helping shine a spotlight on local talent, capture live performances, and build a stronger creative community in the North East of Scotland.

We discuss:

• Glen's background and journey into music production through NESCol

• Why he started North City Signal

• The artists and musicians they've worked with

• Some of Aberdeen's most memorable recording locations and venues

• The challenges facing local artists today

• The future vision for North City Signal

If you're interested in Aberdeen's creative community, independent music, and the people working behind the scenes to support local artists, this episode is for you.