Episodes

  • LinkedIn: Strategies for Success ft. Alina Kovalchuk
    Feb 18 2026

    You asked, and we've delivered! Are you ready to crack the code on LinkedIn? In this episode, hosts David Bancroft and James 'Algorithm' Sharples sit down with LinkedIn adviser Alina Kovalchuk to demystify the platform's ever-changing landscape and reveal what really works in 2026 🚀What you'll discover:📊 Why your follower count matters less than you think👀 How "lurkers" might be your most valuable audience💬 Why DMs are where the real magic happens🎯 Actionable strategies for navigating algorithm changes📝 How to craft content that actually gets seen🤖 Ways to leverage AI without losing your authentic voiceWhether you're struggling with engagement or looking to maximise your LinkedIn presence, this conversation delivers practical strategies you can implement today.

    From metadata optimisation to mobile-first content creation, learn how to build a LinkedIn strategy that works for you, not against you.Perfect for entrepreneurs, marketers, and professionals looking to turn their LinkedIn profiles into powerful business development tools or launchpads for their job search.Enjoy, with your Quick Brew!

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    🤝 Connect with Alina on LinkedIn


    Resources from Alina for our listeners:


    ✨ LinkedIn Profile Optimisation Checklist

    🔎 LinkedIn Visibility Checklist


    📖 Read Alina's book recommendation | Pocket Full of Do by Chris Do


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    ❤️ Thank you to our sponsors, Loomyna. Your AI conversation coach - helping managers, leaders, and HR professionals rehearse, refine, and communicate with clarity, confidence, and care.

    🔗 https://wellityglobal.com/meet-loomyna/🤑 Don't forget to use the discount code: BREW10

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    52 mins
  • Subscriptions, Emails & Rants
    Feb 11 2026

    EP22. In this AQB episode, hosts Dave and James "DAARTARR" Sharples tackle subscription fatigue, email management, and (most importantly) James's rant about the modern pronunciation of "data" as "daartarr."Subscription Overload 💸We dive into the reality of subscription creep. Inspired by a viral video where people couldn't accurately list their own subscriptions, James shares his journey of discovery, including the moment he realised he was paying for THREE separate Netflix accounts (Yes, really.)DIY Financial Cleanup 🧹Rather than paying for a subscription management app, we advocate for the old-fashioned approach: spending 10 minutes checking your bank account's direct debits. It's free, it's satisfying, and it might save you hundreds of pounds a year.Email Management Matters 📧The conversation extends to the often-overlooked world of email management. Just like subscriptions, our inboxes can spiral out of control without regular maintenance. We share tips on decluttering and the surprising delight that comes from deleting hundreds of unnecessary emails.The Great 'Data' Debate 🎙️Finally, James launches into a hilariously heated take on how "data" has somehow evolved into "daartarr" in everyday conversation. If you've ever cringed at hearing someone say "daartarr," you're not alone, and you'll love this segment.Finally... we tee up a future episode to explore email marketing and outreach strategies, so make sure to subscribe!Enjoy, with your Quick Brew------

    ❤️ Thank you to our sponsors, Loomyna. Your AI conversation coach - helping managers, leaders, and HR professionals rehearse, refine, and communicate with clarity, confidence, and care.

    🔗 https://wellityglobal.com/meet-loomyna/

    🤑 Don't forget to use the discount code: BREW10------

    #subscriptions #personalfinance #budgeting #emailmanagement #pronunciation #data #podcast #financialawareness #moneysaving

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    21 mins
  • Mental Health in the Workplace ft. Sadie Restorick
    Feb 4 2026

    In this episode of A Quick Brew, hosts James 'Time2Talk' Sharples and Dave welcome Sadie Restorick, a prominent figure in workplace wellbeing.They discuss the critical role of managers in supporting their employees, the importance of mental health initiatives, and the ever-changing post-pandemic landscape of workplace wellbeing. Sadie shares insights on global trends, the concept of wellbeing washing, and emphasises the significance of self-care and effective communication in the workplace. There is also exciting news as Sadie confirms sponsorship of the pod via her new AI conversation coach: Loomyna 🎉Loomyna helps leaders manage difficult conversations successfully.

    Learn more about Loomyna using: www.wellityglobal.com/meet-loomyna ... and don't forget to use offer code: Brew10 for your exclusive discounts!

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    📖 Read Sadie's book recommendation | Essentialism by Greg McKeown🤝 Connect with Sadie on LinkedIn

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    As always, enjoy with your Quick Brew ⏱️☕🎙️

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    22 mins
  • In-person Meetings in a Digital Age
    Jan 28 2026

    In this episode of A Quick Brew, hosts David Bancroft and James 'Andre' Sharples discuss topics ranging from James' new hobby (can you guess what it is from his name and episode image), to the importance of in-person meetings in a digital age.


    They touch on the challenges of workplace communication, including ghosting and the role of technology in meetings.


    🚨BIG NEWS🚨 The episode also features an announcement of our very first sponsor for the pod 🎉


    The conversation wraps up with reflections on competition and the emotional impact of losing in sports.


    Enjoy with your Quick Brew ⏱️☕🎙️

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    25 mins
  • The Dark Side of AI - A Cyber Security Perspective ft. Sasha Roshan
    Jan 21 2026

    In this episode of A Quick Brew, hosts James 'T-1000' Sharples and David Bancroft engage in a thought-provoking discussion with cyber security expert Sasha Roshan about the darker side of artificial intelligence (AI). The conversation begins with an introduction to Sasha's role at Huntress, a managed security platform. As the discussion unfolds, Sasha highlights the alarming ways in which AI can be exploited by hackers, including the creation of sophisticated malware and phishing attacks. He emphasises the ease with which malicious actors can leverage AI tools to automate and enhance their attacks, making cybersecurity more challenging than ever.The episode delves into various examples of AI's potential misuse, such as deepfakes and AI-generated phishing emails, and the implications for personal privacy and security. Sasha shares his insights on the importance of education in navigating the complexities of AI, urging listeners to be cautious about the information they share with AI systems.

    -----📖 Read Sasha's book recommendation: Atomic Habits 🤝 Connect with Sasha on LinkedIn -----

    Enjoy with your 'Quick Brew' ⏱️☕🎙️

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    43 mins
  • Mastering the Art of Outbound Sales in 2026
    Jan 14 2026

    In this episode, James 'Cold Call' Sharples and Dave discuss the evolving landscape of sales, underlining the importance of resilience, accountability, and the shift from traditional sales methods to modern strategies. They explore the attributes of successful salespeople, the challenges of cold calling, and the role of platforms like LinkedIn in building trust and credibility. The conversation highlights the necessity of proactive outreach and the enduring value of personal connections in sales.Enjoy with your Quick Brew 😉☕

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    26 mins
  • The Future of In-Person Experiences: with Danny Macklin
    Jan 7 2026

    In this episode, Dave and James 'Superman' Sharples engage in a lively discussion with guest Danny Macklin (Head of Partnerships for The Ideal Home Show 🏡).They talk about the importance of human connection at events and the balance between live and virtual environments to create immersive experiences, and how this provides unique opportunities for brands to connect with consumers.They also receive a great new book recommendation to add to the 'Quick Brew Bookcase' that emphasises the importance of results-oriented discipline and push-back in business.-----📖 Read Danny's book recommendation | The Challenge Culture🤝 Connect with Danny Macklin on LinkedIn -----As always, enjoy with your Quick Brew ⏱️☕🎙️

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    21 mins
  • New Year, New Goals: Embracing Change
    Dec 31 2025

    Happy New Year 🎉 In this episode, Dave and James 'HNY' Sharples reflect on the New Year, discussing their approach towards resolutions, the importance of quality time with loved ones, and setting realistic goals.

    They share personal experiences of winter blues and weight-loss journeys, emphasising gradual changes and manageable targets.

    The conversation also touches on the challenges of engaging content on LinkedIn and the desire to provide value to their audience.

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    Enjoy, with your Quick Brew 😊⏱️☕🎙️

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    23 mins