Ep.18 Walk Works : Building Community Connections One Step at a Time
With Caroline Gratrix & Liz Bradbury
Guest Name: Caroline Gratrix and Liz Bradbury
Episode Description:
In this episode, Caroline and Liz, co-founders of Walk Works in Reading, share the story behind their inspiring venture, which turns local walking routes into guided group experiences that foster connection with nature and community. What began as a shared love for hiking evolved into Walk Works, offering locals a safe, guided way to explore scenic paths, meet new people, and support local businesses.
Caroline and Liz discuss the challenges of running a small business, from managing logistics and permissions for each route to promoting their business. They highlight the benefits of collaborating with local pubs and businesses, which adds a social angle and gives local businesses and economic boost. With a recent expansion into corporate outings, Walk Works now helps employees reconnect with nature, fostering productivity and team bonding. Caroline and Liz also emphasize the profound mental health benefits of spending time outdoors, building friendships, and creating inclusive spaces. The episode offers insights into cultivating community and well-being through the simple yet transformative act of walking.
Walk Works website: https://www.walkworks.co.uk/
Walk Works Social Profiles:
Join Caroline and Liz for an upcoming walk!
Listen to the episode
Episode Time Codes
00:25 Introduction
01:10 Introduction to Caroline and Liz
02:34 What Caroline and Liz like about Reading
03:54 How Walk Works started
05:17 How Caroline and Liz promote walk Works
06:58 Extending Walk Works to businesses
09:38 What challenges Caroline and Liz face in running Walk Works
13:30 The future of Walk Works (developing the corporate side)
17:47 How Caroline and Liz find their walk routes
22:58 Advice for other independent business owners
24:59 Where can people find out more info
25:36 Final takeaways
Videos
Key takeaways
Insights on Building Local Partnerships: Partnerships with pubs and local businesses are carefully chosen and fostered to enhance the group’s experience, often involving special offers for walkers. This approach not only supports local businesses but also adds value, helping participants feel connected to Reading’s hidden gems and creating a memorable experience that brings them back.
Mental Health Benefits of Walking: Walk Works is more than a physical activity; it’s a mental health resource for participants. They describe how stepping away from screens and entering a green, open space shifts people’s mindsets, reduces stress and sparks conversation.
Lessons Learned and Business Advice: Caroline and Liz discuss the challenges of running Walk Works, from mastering logistics like route approvals and safety checks to wearing many hats as founders of a small business. They also talk about the constant need to adapt. Their insights underscore small details — consistent communication, attentiveness to participant needs, and fostering a genuine love for the local area — are critical for long-term success and impact.