Mini Athletics and Me

Discover how Michael Pope transitioned from teaching to running a thriving Mini Athletics franchise in Bath. Learn about his challenges, successes, and tips for building a community-focused business centered on children's movement and development.Key Topics:Michael’s transition from teaching to franchise ownershipBuilding a community presence and local marketing strategiesOvercoming the challenges of setting up a new business post-initial phaseThe importance of social skills and physical literacy in early childhoodDeveloping a team: plans for future coaching supportBalancing family life with entrepreneurial pursuitsCelebrating small wins and steady growth in a new businessFind out more about Mini Athletics franchising in both the UK and USA UK - www.miniathleticsfranchising.co.ukUSA - www.miniathleticsfranchising.com

Anthony Walker was the first to raise the flag for Mini Athletics in Scotland. Turning his hand to many careers Anthony has now settled in a career as Mini Athletics business owner. He talks to hosts Clare Bowyer & Hannah Danby about his journey. From being enthusiastic about dressing in costumes matching the themes Mini Athletics rolls out to being a champion fundraiser Anthony really does embody the ethos of Mini Athletics. If you have questions about franchising with Mini Athletics email: info@miniathletics.com or visit www.miniathleticsfranchising.co.ukBe sure to follow us on social media @miniathletics and watch full episodes on Youtube.

In this episode, Clare & Hannah welcome Hannah and Ian, the newest franchisees of Mini Athletics, who share their journey from their respective backgrounds to becoming business partners in the children's sports franchise. They discuss their initial experiences, the challenges they faced during their launch, and the training they underwent to prepare for their roles. The couple reflects on the joys and highlights of running their franchise, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and the fun they have while working together. They also offer advice for those considering joining the Mini Athletics franchise, highlighting the need for energy, creativity, and resilience in the business.

In this episode of Mini Athletics and Me, Clare Bowyer and Hannah Danby are joined by Vicki Brunt from the Children and Young People's Cancer Association (CCLG) to discuss the impactful collaboration between Mini Athletics and CCLG. They explore the significance of charity week, the importance of community-led events, and how funds raised support vital research and resources for families affected by childhood cancer.TakeawaysMini Athletics has raised over £30,000 for CCLG.CCLG acts as a hub for childhood cancer support.Over 4,000 children in the UK are diagnosed with cancer annually.Survival rates have improved from 20% to over 80%.Two-thirds of survivors face long-term side effects.CCLG provides trusted, medically-backed information.Community events are crucial for CCLG's funding.CCLG receives no government funding.Funds support research and publication of resources.Awareness and fundraising are key to CCLG's mission.SPONSOR US: https://www.justgiving.com/team/miniathletics2025FIND OUT MORE ABOUT CCLG: https://www.cclg.org.uk/Visit: www.miniathletics.com for all things Mini Athletics.

Episode 10: From Hospitality to Coaching – Ed’s Inspiring Mini Athletics JourneyIn this heartwarming episode of Mini Athletics and Me, Clare Bowyer and Hannah Danby sit down with Ed Danby, who swapped 70-hour weeks in the fast-paced world of hospitality for a more balanced, fulfilling life running his own Mini Athletics franchise.Ed opens up about the transition from managing late nights and high stress to spending his mornings on school runs, coaching children, and working alongside his wife, Hannah. He shares the highs and challenges of building a business together, from learning to embrace social media to finding joy in inspiring the next generation to love sports and movement.We explore how Ed’s passion for coaching has reignited his own fitness, how family is at the heart of everything he does, and why the Mini Athletics support network has been key to his success.Whether you’re curious about franchising, looking for a better work-life balance, or simply love hearing real stories of growth and grit, Ed’s journey is packed with insights and inspiration.Mini Athletics: Discover how our play-based programs are helping kids thrive through sport and movement at www.miniathletics.comFollow Us: For updates, stories, and tips, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @miniathleticsLove the Podcast? Leave us a review and share it with someone considering a new chapter in life.🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Episode 9: Family, Flexibility, and Finding Her Flow – Rachel’s Mini Athletics StoryIn this uplifting episode of Mini Athletics and Me, Clare and Hannah chat with Rachel Russell, a dynamic business owner and mum of two, who swapped the 9-to-5 office life for the freedom and fulfilment of running Mini Athletics South Birmingham. Rachel opens up about her leap into self-employment, sharing the honest highs and lows of building a business while raising a young family. From school runs to strategy sessions, she reveals how she’s found rhythm and resilience in the juggle of parenting and entrepreneurship.We hear how the supportive Mini Athletics network empowered her transition, how involving her daughters has brought unexpected joy, and why flexibility has been the biggest game-changer of all.Whether you're a parent dreaming of more balance, someone considering franchising, or just love real-life stories of growth and grit, this episode offers encouragement, insight, and a reminder that you really can do both.Mini Athletics: Discover how our play-based programs are helping kids thrive through sport and movement at www.miniathletics.comFollow Us: For updates, stories, and tips, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @miniathleticsLove the Podcast? Leave us a review and share with someone exploring life beyond the desk.🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Episode 8: From Classroom to Community – Elly’s Leap into Mini Athletics SheffieldIn this heartening episode of Mini Athletics and Me, Clare and Hannah sit down with Elly Rogers, a former teacher who swapped the classroom for the coaching field when she launched Mini Athletics Sheffield.Elly shares her inspiring journey from education to entrepreneurship, opening up about the passion that led her to Mini Athletics and the real-life challenges of building a business from the ground up. From navigating local marketing to creating strong partnerships with schools and nurseries, Elly talks about how she’s brought energy, confidence, and connection to her community.She also reflects on the joy of working with children in a more active, playful environment, how the supportive Mini Athletics franchise network helped her thrive, and how her new role has transformed her work-life balance and family time.Whether you’re an educator exploring new possibilities, a parent interested in children’s physical development, or simply love hearing stories of personal growth, this episode offers inspiration, honesty, and practical advice from someone who's made the leap—and never looked back.Mini Athletics: Discover how our play-based programs are helping kids thrive through sport and movement at www.miniathletics.comFollow Us: For updates, stories, and tips, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @miniathleticsLove the Podcast? Leave us a review and share with someone ready to take the leap into something new.🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito

Episode 7: From Part-Time to Powerhouse – Vanessa’s Journey as Wales’ First Mini Athletics FranchiseeIn this inspiring episode of Mini Athletics and Me, Clare Bowyer sits down with Vanessa, the trailblazing first Welsh franchisee of Mini Athletics, to explore her empowering path from part-time work to running a thriving children’s coaching business.Vanessa opens up about the leap into entrepreneurship, the joy and challenges of coaching young athletes, and what it takes to grow a successful franchise while staying true to the spirit of play. From leading energetic classes to launching popular holiday camps and managing a growing team, she shares honest insights into the day-to-day realities of running a Mini Athletics franchise.With warmth and enthusiasm, Vanessa highlights the role of fun in every session, the power of perseverance, and how being part of a supportive community has helped her thrive—both professionally and personally.Whether you're dreaming of a new career, already coaching, or simply love hearing stories of growth and grit, this episode offers practical inspiration and heart-led advice from someone who’s been there and made it happen.Mini Athletics: Discover how our fun-first, confidence-building programs are helping children across the UK thrive through sport and play at www.miniathletics.comFollow Us: For tips, updates, and inspiring stories, follow us on Instagram and Facebook @miniathleticsLove the Podcast? Leave us a review and share your thoughts—your support helps us keep sharing these amazing journeys.🎧 Produced and Edited by Rob Sillito