Johnston Carmichael’s Newcastle office has launched a new podcast series, opening with ex-Olympic swimmer Chris Cook as its first guest and adding a fresh voice to the North East’s business conversation.

Hosted by Paul Shields, Partner and Head of the firm’s Newcastle office, the podcast brings together leadership thinking from the worlds of sport and business, drawing clear parallels between elite performance and the realities faced by entrepreneurs and senior leaders across the region.

Recorded and led from the North East, the series explores themes such as resilience, adaptability and performing under pressure – challenges familiar to both professional athletes and growing businesses. Guests are drawn from across the sporting world and share personal journeys that mirror many of the decisions, setbacks and moments of uncertainty faced by leaders today.

The opening episode features South Shields-born Chris Cook, who represented Team GB at the Athens 2004 and Beijing 2008 Olympic Games. In the conversation, Chris reflects on his journey to the global stage, his transition from elite sport into business, and the mindset required to succeed when expectations are high and conditions are uncertain. He also speaks candidly about how his upbringing in the region helped shape his resilience, perspective and approach to leadership.

The podcast launch comes at a time of continued momentum for Johnston Carmichael’s Newcastle office, which has grown significantly since opening in 2023. The firm has expanded its team, strengthened its sector expertise and supported clients in sectors including technology, engineering and manufacturing, food and drink, and construction and property.

Paul Shields said: “I’m really excited to launch this podcast. The North East has no shortage of determination, talent or leadership, and this is about shining a light on those qualities through conversations people can genuinely learn from.

“Chris was the perfect guest to start with. His journey from South Shields to the Olympics, and then into business, is incredibly powerful and very relevant for leaders across our region. It’s a great example of how local ambition can compete on any stage.”

He added: “The series also reflects the growth of our Newcastle office and our long-term commitment to the region. This is another way for us to contribute meaningfully to the business conversation in the North East.”

Future episodes will feature guests from across football, cricket, rugby and the wider sporting industry, alongside business leaders with strong local connections.

The first episode featuring Chris Cook is available now across major podcast platforms.