The Caro Podcast

My guest this week is the artist Joel Parkes. His sculptures in stone, metal and wood are incredibly beautiful, transcendental and contemplative. Previously working in public art, Joel’s move into the world of fine art see’s a continuation in using rejected materials that reflect is interest in transformation and renewal. It’s hard not to talk about interesting ideas and concepts with Joel. We talk about spirituality, the oscillations of life, we talk about realisations and also about his process and thought’s on what art is. It’s a little longer than usual because we shoot the breeze a bit but he is refreshingly honest, funny and compelling Joel is a deep thinker and like his work, is interested in having a conversation so we get pretty philosophical in this episode which I enjoyed. Enjoy!

Since moving to Somerset 10 years ago, I have been heading to the Beckford Inn’s in search of satiating that sense of true countryside; Heartening red wine, tasty food, cosy fires and those interiors that makes you feel like you’re back where you belong. Witnessing more pubs open by The Beckford Group over the years, it’s clear that they have a knack for knowing when it’s right, and an eye for how to do it well. And then of course, there’s Bramley, the bath and body brand, and perfect sister brand, with 23 products on offer as well as a treatment cabin ay their Longleat site, The Bath Bath Arms!Having spent a lot of my annual income in one or another of their pubs, I was excited to meet the brains. We talk about values, when to think when thinking’s too much, we talk about community, connection and also the role a pub has in our villages. So today, I welcome co-founder Dan Brod and founder of Bramley, Chloe Luxton. 

Welcome to Series 4 of The Caro Podcast. I am really excited to share the next season of episodes with you. Who have I been chatting to - chef’s, sculptors, ceramists, artists, business founders, pub owners, oh and and an ice-cream maker - and there's all on my door-step here in Somerset. Without further ado, let’s start with my first guest. Movement wasn’t exactly part of my childhood - I wasn’t encouraged with anything sporty and due to my lack of confidence, I didn’t really pursue anything either. What I didn’t realise when I found exercise as an young teenager, was that I had found a partner for life. A partner that was going to teach me about where my limit’s lie, and how pushing those limits, those edges, can build my physical strength but also my mental strength. It has taught me about myself in ways that I am very grateful for. So when I met the guest on this weeks podcast some years ago, I was keen to get to know her. Because not only is she a woman that has changed the culture of exercise in this country but she is also an ambassador for the power of movement - to make you stronger, happier and on top of your game. How you might ask? Hormones. And she’s talking about them in a fun and sexy way. Please welcome to the Podcast, the very smart, the very exuberant and lovely - with a very cool name - Pip Black of Move your Frame.

This is the last episode of series 3. I have absolutely loved chatting to all the guests and feel very grateful for having met such inspiring people. Today’s conversation is with Rosanna Philpott, founder of Pygmalion, a dinner candle company launched in August of this year. Lighting a tall dinner candle in anticipation for the arrival of guests, really is the moment before the fun is about to commence. Rosanna has developed candles that capture this magic with designs that are modern, fun and look great placed on any table or mantle.Rosanna and I chat through the story behind the name Pygmalion and how her painting and travels to Kenya have inspired the candle designs. I hear about how hard it was finding her factory and the disasters she’s had along the way. Rosanna really is finessing the art of multitasking. Not only does she run Pygmalion but she has a full time job as a features reporter for a large news network. Incredible. I am delighted to say that Pygmalion candles are part of the pop-up I’m doing in Bruton at the moment and they are flying off the shelves. They are the perfect gift this Christmas. Please welcome to the podcast, the very dynamic Rosanna Philpott. 

Freight HHG has been on my radar for many years. With a paired back and tactile aesthetic, the acclaimed shop based in Lewes, Sussex understands the importance of materiality, beauty and the importance of creating atmospheric spaces. Launched in 2014, mother Helene, and daughter Adele, seem to have formed quite the duo with a wonderful mix of discernment, technical ability and the art of editing. Freight HHG - standing for Household Goods - have been a benchmark for me with Caro, as my team will have testified, so it was an absolutely privilege to chat with Adele - especially as she only gave birth 5 weeks ago to her son Kit. With a business model based in uk production, I was curious to hear how they have got on amongst the turbulent few years we’ve had - but also about the journey they’ve had growing a business that has confidence and an abundance of charm.Adele has such an eloquent way of talking shop. I am thrilled to say, I am selling their beautiful wares in my Pop Up - which is on now at The Space in Bruton until the 21st December - as well as on carosomerset.comPlease welcome Adele Adamczewski.

Zara Peters is the lovely face behind the name Queen of Bows. I don’t know if you’ve noticed, but bows are featuring in quite a gib way at the moment and I am certain that it is something to do with Zara’s bows because her’s aren’t just any bows. From giant, oversized bows to bows to put on cars, mantelpieces and front doors, Zara hand makes to order in a beautiful range of understated, natural fabrics. I am overjoyed to say that her bows, as well as her scrunchies will be at my pop-up starting this Saturday - at The Space in Bruton, please see my instagram profile for more details - Zara’s bows just have this way of making everything feel festive and special.We have such a lovely conversation with rather a funny moment in the middle when we clear up a confusion we had around her thinking I called her a giant Elf - thank god we cleared that one up. As it’s Christmas, I ask a few festive inspired questions which had a heartwarming turn this episode - I have been inspired talking to Zara about her take on Christmas and the traditions she invites her family to take part in.Lot’s jingly bells to all of you and enjoy this festive episode.