Mental Health Takes Centre Stage

May’s Newark Business Club meeting kicked off with the usual roving mic introductions followed by a presentation from this month’s sponsor, Kevin Guthrie, emotional well-being coach.

May is National Mental Health Awareness Month and Kevin delivered a timely and practical talk about his services that can benefit both individuals and businesses, focusing on enhancing psychological and emotional well-being. Kevin reminded attendees of the importance of taking control of our own well-being and introduced a selection of his “mental health hacks” including:

Supplements that can support mood and mental clarity
Uplifting music to shift emotional states
Deep breathing techniques to reduce stress
Spending time in nature to boost mood and perspective
Understanding ‘your own oxygen’— a metaphor for knowing what replenishes your energy
Taking personal ownership of your well-being
Practising gratitude to foster a positive mindset

One of the highlights of the morning was a simple, guided breathing exercise led by Kevin. In just a few moments, the entire room experienced a tangible sense of calm and presence — an eye-opening reminder of how mindfulness can be easily integrated into our daily routines.

The Business Card Draw

Next on the agenda was the business card draw. The winners of a write-up each were Bradley Walker from Pineapple Telecoms, a first-time visitor, and Keith Girling, a regular attendee.

Who Gives a Book?!

In the ‘Who Gives a Book?!’ feature, another lucky member walked away with a motivational read courtesy of Daniel Otton of Buttercross Estates. This month’s title was Eat That Frog! by Brian Tracy — an essential read for anyone looking to beat procrastination and get more done. Chairman, Simon Gabbitas, shared a quote from the book.

“If you have to eat two frogs, eat the ugliest one first.”

Inspiring us to tackle our biggest, toughest task first — it’ll make everything else feel easier. A simple but powerful reminder to stop putting things off and start the day with purpose. If you would like to recommend a book to be given away at future meetings, please email hello@newarkbusinessclub.co.uk

Two Minute Talk

This month’s Member Spotlight shone on Rachel Haith, owner of Inspired Life Group, who shared her business journey and passion for empowering others. Rachel shared her own story about her own self-doubt and now supports others by offering a mix of one-to-one sessions, small group coaching, and transformative workshops, all designed to help people step into their full potential. She also co-hosts a podcast called The Renny Show. Rachel finished with her motto “Live your life by design, not by accident.”

Patron Sponsor Speaker – Gusto Group

We heard from Steff Wright, chairman of Gusto Group and Newark & Sherwood United FC. Steff provided an exciting update on the club’s ambitious project—Yorke Park, a proposed new stadium for sports and events in Newark. Built from reused shipping containers, the model presented sparked great interest. Steff proudly showcased the team’s new B Corp football shirt, symbolising the 2,500 B Corp businesses across the UK, highlighting their shared commitment to positive change.

To top it off, Steff shared some brilliant news that Newark & Sherwood United will be playing Hucknall Town FC in the Nottinghamshire FA Senior Cup Final on Tuesday 6th May. The game starts at 7.45pm and takes place at the One Call Stadium, Mansfield.

Key Dates and Club Announcements

Members were also reminded to mark their calendars for several upcoming events:

Music from the Movies Charity Concert – Saturday 17th May, in aid of the Children’s Bereavement Centre
Newark Duck Race – Sunday 22nd June
The Business Detox – Friday 27th June
Independents’ Day ‘Mee & You’ Networking – Friday 4th July
SAVE THE DATE – Newark Business Club Evening Summer Social (in collaboration with Lincoln Business Club and Grantham Business Club) – Thursday 10th July, Newark Showground
Newark Dragon Boat Festival – Sunday 14th September

Join Us Next Time

Whether you’re new to the club or a regular face, Newark Business Club continues to offer a welcoming space for connection, collaboration, and community growth. See you at our next meeting on Friday 6^th June, 2025. Doors 6,45am – 7.10am start and breakfast meetings are held at the YMCA Newark and Sherwood.

Member Spotlight – Keith Girling

This month marked the end of an era as Keith Girling attended his final Newark Business Club meeting in his role as a councillor. But far from being a farewell, Keith is embracing the next chapter with optimism and a fresh perspective. “I’m looking forward to next month’s meeting — this time as Mr. Girling,” he said with a smile.

Having been involved with the club since its inception and serving as its second-ever chairman, Keith has seen it flourish into the thriving, respected forum it is today. “I’m immensely proud of how the club has developed. It continues to grow and bring people together — it’s been a constant in a life of change.”

Keith is no stranger to change. With a long and varied career behind him, he’s choosing to see this moment not as a step back, but as an opportunity to explore new paths. “I’ve always embraced challenge, and this is just another exciting change. I’m open to new opportunities, and I’m optimistic about what the future may bring.”

With a wealth of experience in business engagement, strategic partnership working at board level, and collaboration with ministers and MPs, Keith brings a rare depth of knowledge and an extensive network. He’s also been a dedicated supporter of SMEs and local enterprise.

As he steps into this new phase, one thing is clear—Keith Girling may be closing one chapter, but the next one is just beginning to unfold, full of promise and potential.

Next meeting

The next meeting of Newark Business Club will be on 6th June at the YMCA, starting at 7.10 am.

Write Up by Roz Andrews, RA Writers For Hire

Thank you to Our Patrons & Sponsors

Next Meeting – The next meeting of Newark Business Club will be at 7.10 am on 6th June at the YMCA.

The YMCA catering team offer a range of delicious breakfasts which are available to purchase.

Please Book your tickets online

YMCA Community and Activity Village
Lord Hawke Way
Newark
Nottinghamshire NG24 4FH

Book your ticket now

For sponsorship opportunities, contact chairman@newarkbusinessclub.co.uk