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24 Mar The making of a mayor – interview with Andy Street CBE

Posted at 11:13h in Uncategorized by

Mayor of the West Midlands, Andy Street, shares key moments from his childhood and career in our latest podcast episode  The former managing director of retail giant John Lewis was interviewed by Clever Tykes co-founder Jodie Cook as part of the Creating Useful People podcast series, which explores how successful business leaders were raised.

Street tells listeners about his humble beginnings in Birmingham as well as his fascinating rise to the top of John Lewis having begun as a trainee on the shop floor, as well as being turned down by rivals Marks & Spencer! Jodie digs into what makes the mayor so successful as a leader and why he chose to turn his hand to politics.

The podcast has delved into the upbringing of other interesting individuals including comedian Phill Jupitus, Elmhurst Ballet School principal Jessica Wheeler and Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce CEO Paul Faulkner. The episodes are available on this website and on iTunes, Stitcher and Spotify.



  • I am a huge advocate of the entrepreneurial messages and characteristics that you are driving. I think it is a fantastic idea to instil the idea of entrepreneurship into children from a young age. This is a great way to open children up to the idea of not always following conventional paths and giving them the belief and confidence to pursue their own creative business ideas.

    James Caan, CBE - entrepreneur and former Dragon

  • The Clever Tykes series are such a wonderful way to introduce ‘enterprise’ to children from a young age – I can’t recommend them highly enough, and strongly urge parents to read along with their child as there is no doubt the stories will stimulate lots of questions and interest!

    Lorraine Allman, Author and Founder of Enterprising Child

  • I found Walk-it Willow easy to read and full of lovely messages that children can take from it. It touched on taking responsibility, problem solving, admitting mistakes and also the work it takes to run a small business. Willow is entertaining but very human. A lovely story.

    Naomi Richards, The Kids Coach, parent and life coach for children