‘Novel‘ podcast to showcase city region’s Innovation leaders and deliver insights into the region as a hub for entrepreneurial excellence, commerce and economic growth
The VEC’s Novel has announced the launch of a new business podcast series dedicated to showcasing the remarkable stories and innovative strategies of small and medium enterprise (SME) leaders across the Liverpool City Region.
The podcast, developed by the VEC’s Novel Innovation Leadership is delivered by the £5.1m Horizons programme, funded by the Liverpool City Region’s £44m UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) allocation. The programme aims to position Liverpool City Region as the premier destination for entrepreneurial excellence while providing a powerful platform for local business leaders to share their expertise with a national audience.
Cllr Wharton, Liverpool City Region Combined Authority Cabinet Member for Business, Investment and Trade commented:
“Liverpool City Region is home to some of the most innovative and committed business leaders in the UK. Novel’s Innovation Leadership programme has had a significant impact on SME leaders in the city since its launch earlier this year. The introduction of a dedicated podcast offers an exciting platform for the region’s entrepreneurs, innovators, and business leaders to share their stories, insights, and ambitions, shining a spotlight on the incredible businesses we have here. Novel will help showcase our commitment to building a fairer, more prosperous economy where local businesses can thrive and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs.”
Championing Regional Business Excellence
Hosted by Novel Co-founder and VEC’s Chief Innovation Officer, Andrew Borland, the new podcast series titled ‘Leaders Lessons’ will feature in-depth interviews with SME founders, scale-up leaders, and industry innovators from across Halton, Knowsley, Liverpool, Sefton, St Helens, and Wirral. The podcast seeks to uncover the unique approaches, breakthrough moments, and strategic insights that have driven success in the region’s diverse business landscape.
The series addresses a critical gap in business media coverage, focusing specifically on the challenges and opportunities facing SMEs – businesses that employ 16.3 million people across the UK and contribute £2.3 trillion to the national economy annually.
Professional Production with Strategic Impact
Produced to broadcast-quality standards, Novel will be distributed across multiple platforms, including YouTube, Spotify, and LinkedIn ensuring maximum reach for participating businesses and the region’s economic development messaging.
The podcast will explore critical business themes including:
- Leadership evolution and team-building strategies
- Innovation in traditional industries
- Sustainable business practices and net-zero transitions
- Digital transformation in SME environments
- Export development and international growth
- Access to finance and scaling strategies
Supporting Regional Economic Strategy
The launch of Novel supports the Combined Authority’s broader economic development objectives, including the £1 billion investment programme designed to create jobs, drive innovation, and build an inclusive economy across the city region.
First Episodes to Feature Diverse Business Leaders
The inaugural series will feature leaders from sectors representing the region’s economic strengths, including advanced manufacturing, creative industries, automotive, life sciences, and digital & creative. Guest selection prioritises a diverse set of leaders from businesses demonstrating significant growth, innovation, or community impact within the Liverpool City Region.
Looking Forward
The VEC and The Liverpool City Region Combined Authority expect Novel to become a key asset in the region’s business promotion and investment attraction efforts while providing valuable networking and knowledge-sharing opportunities for the local business community.
The podcast launches in July 2025, with new episodes released regularly.Businesses interested in participating or learning more about Novel can contact contact@itsnovel.org
You can listen to the Leaders Lessons Podcast on Spotify or YouTube.
