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The EV Café is extremely grateful to our partners for their support in making this happen.

























Published 04 Mar 2026
Graeme Cooper returns to The EV Café Takeaway for a conversation that spans life, energy, and the future of zero-emission transport, this time from his new home in snowy Massachusetts. Once the very first guest on the podcast, Graeme reflects on leaving National Grid, navigating a transatlantic relocation, and adapting to the realities of the US energy and EV market. From the rise of “greenhushing” to the challenges of electrifying vast American fleets, Graeme pulls apart the complex relationship between federal and state policies, the unintended consequences of political decisions, and why pragmatism and emotional resilience matter in the energy transition. Along the way, he shares candid insights about personal change, building a sustainable home, and why the human side of the net-zero story can’t be ignored. Topics include: * Living and working in the US under shifting political winds * How state vs. federal rules drive (or hinder) EV adoption * The concept of **greenhushing** and why clean energy is happening quietly * Pragmatism in large-scale energy projects, from data centres to EV fleets * Personal lessons in resilience, adaptability, and finding “home” abroad A thoughtful look at the zero-emission journey from both sides of the Atlantic—delivered in true Graeme Cooper style. ## Graeme Cooper (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecooper/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/graemecooper/)

Published 25 Feb 2026
This week on The EV Café Takeaway, we welcome Stuart Humphrey – a passionate electric vehicle advocate, wellbeing champion, and winner of the EV Café Christmas Cracker Wellbeing Award. Stuart shares how a simple financial decision to lease a Nissan Leaf in 2014 sparked 12 years of EV driving and inspired him to become a vocal supporter of accessibility and inclusion in the EV community. In this episode, he talks about: - Making EVs fun, simple, and affordable for everyone - Tackling misinformation and building confidence for new drivers - The link between mental health, neurodiversity, and community advocacy - Why inclusivity – from women in EVs to young drivers – is key to mass adoption - Practical insights on home solar, battery storage, and living with EVs day-to-day From sharing strategies for managing difficult days to highlighting gaps in public charging, Stuart brings a refreshingly honest and practical perspective on driving change in the zero-emission space. Connect with Stuart on LinkedIn, and explore more conversations at evcafe.org or on Apple and Spotify. ## Stuart Humphrey (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-humphrey-974205166/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-humphrey-974205166/)

Published 18 Feb 2026
It’s the award‑winning Ben Travis! A true champion of customer experience and electric vehicle education. Ben joined the automotive industry in 2019 and became a trusted EV specialist, guiding customers through the transition from internal combustion to electric. During the first lockdown, while many settled into furlough, Ben immersed himself in EV knowledge—devouring YouTube videos, manuals, and guides—to ensure he could deliver confident, first‑hand advice to customers. **Ben opens up about:** - His passion for customer‑first service and why empathy is at the heart of electrification. - Building confidence in EV adoption through real‑world experience and storytelling. - How LinkedIn and YouTube gave him a platform to educate and inspire. - Staying grounded in the face of recognition, negativity, and life’s challenges. - His personal “magic wand” wish for a better world. ## Ben Traviss (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentraviss/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bentraviss/) ## LLoyd Motor Group [https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com](https://www.lloydmotorgroup.com) ## Ben’s YouTube Channel (Electric Ben) [https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBenYT](https://www.youtube.com/@ElectricBenYT)

Published 11 Feb 2026
Anne Snelson (Lead With Sustainability) shares her journey from government statistician and AA policy researcher to senior marketing roles at Vodafone and RingGo, before finding her purpose in sustainability. She takes us through her work championing emissions-based parking, her role in influencing corporate sustainability at companies like BMW and Nissan, and how her Carbon Literacy Project training is sparking meaningful change across the automotive and built environment sectors. Anne opens up about: * Her personal motivations for tackling climate change and the influence of her parents, a statistician father and ecologist mother. * The emotional moments from delivering her sustainability training, and the ripple effects it creates in corporate and personal lives alike. * The importance of circularity, AI-driven innovation, and co-benefits in building a zero-emission future. * Life lessons in resilience, building a purpose-led business in her 50s, and finding joy in making a difference. Oh, and there’s talk of Climate Change Countdown, EV road trips to Italy, and why cheap renewable electricity is top of Anne’s “magic wand” wish list. ## Lead With Sustainability <https://leadwithsustainability.co.uk> EV Cafe listeners can get a **20% discount** off the full price by entering promo code EVC2026 at the [Ticket Tailor checkout](https://www.tickettailor.com/events/leadwithsustainability) ## Anne Snelson <https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-snelson-bsc-dipm-mba-93a6701/>

Published 04 Feb 2026
This week we have the multi-talented Jess Shanahan! Jess discusses running a Porsche race team and teaching motorsport sponsorship to becoming a key figure in the EV and e-mobility space—creating content, hosting events, and speaking passionately about mental health and neurodiversity. What’s discussed: - Jess’s path through motorsport and e-mobility, and how she built her own thriving businesses, including Jet Social and Charge Happy. - Her mental health and ADHD journey, and how embracing her authentic self has shaped her career and creativity. - The power of vulnerability, self-expression, and collaboration, both in personal life and in driving the EV sector forward. - Creative passions beyond EVs, including her historical romance novel, poetry, and the dream of making space for more writing. This conversation goes beyond electric vehicles to the people who are shaping a zero-emission future, showing how authenticity and emotional safety can drive meaningful impact. ## Jess Shanahan (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessshanahan/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessshanahan/) ## Charge Happy [https://www.chargehappy.co.uk](https://www.chargehappy.co.uk) ## Jet Social [https://www.jetsocial.co.uk](https://www.jetsocial.co.uk) ## Bonus [The Picture Paul was referencing](https://mswmpwdwfsebytqupoit.supabase.co/storage/v1/object/public/media/1/1770024536046-69b3b40e-889a-4f9f-ad86-dc7b61f1316c.png)

Published 28 Jan 2026
Richard Guy, Fleet & Plant Director at Amey uncovers how he led one of the UK’s largest strategic government suppliers on a remarkable fleet electrification journey. Amey operates 4,000 vehicles—cars, vans, and trucks—across highways, rail, facilities management, and consultancy services. Richard shares how his team successfully transitioned from just 5% EV adoption to over 90% in the company car fleet—three years ahead of target — all without mandating EVs - what a Guy! **Discover how Richard:** - Tackled driver objections with a behavioural, not just financial, approach - Removed key barriers like home charger costs, mileage reimbursement fears, and lease timing - Built trust and engagement through hands-on driver support and ambassador networks - Navigates the “clay layer” of operational managers in the complex world of electric vans and trucks - Balances decarbonisation ambitions with operational realities, mental health, and neurodiverse communication needs We also dive into the challenges of commercial vehicle electrification, temporary charging solutions, the future of HGV decarbonisation, and why Richard’s magic wand wish is to change the mainstream media narrative on EVs. ## Richard Guy (LinkedIn) <https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-guy-6195189a> ## Amey [https://www.amey.co.uk](https://www.amey.co.uk/)

Published 21 Jan 2026
Matt Cleevely, the driving force behind Cleevely Motors and Cleevely Electric Vehicles—and an industry personality—joins JC & Paul this week. Matt shares how a family business founded in 1962 has transformed into a hub for EV repair, sales, and advocacy, all while staying rooted in the values passed down from his grandfather. He talks openly about: * Building a multi-generational, family-led business in the age of electrification * Overcoming industry resistance and championing EV adoption * The challenges and rewards of running three intertwined businesses * His personal journey with mental health, and how hobbies like golf and strong family support helped him overcome depression * Why kindness, honesty, and community are at the heart of everything he does ## Matt Cleevely (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cleevely-aae-mimi-2792b367/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-cleevely-aae-mimi-2792b367/) ## Cleevely Electric Vehicles [https://www.cleevelyev.co.uk](https://www.cleevelyev.co.uk) ## HEVRA (Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Alliance) [https://hevra.org.uk](https://hevra.org.uk/)

Published 14 Jan 2026
Paul and JC sit down with Caroline Watson, Director of Transport at C40 Cities—a global network of mayors leading the charge toward a zero-emission future. Caroline shares her incredible journey in the world of transport decarbonisation, from her early days at the Energy Saving Trust to spearheading international initiatives that are transforming city mobility. She reveals how C40 supports nearly 100 cities worldwide in tackling climate change, rolling out zero-emission buses and freight corridors, and creating healthier, more liveable urban spaces. ## Highlights include: * The story behind C40 Cities and its evolution from London’s climate initiative to a global force. * How cities like Shenzhen, Oslo, and Amsterdam are setting the standard for electrification and clean transport. * Groundbreaking projects like the ZEBRA initiative in Latin America and electric freight corridors in India. * The power of city policies, heat-mapping for EV infrastructure, and the vital role of public transport in reducing congestion and emissions. * Caroline’s personal passion for climate action, her vision for reaching the 1.5°C target, and why tangible solutions like electric vehicles keep her motivated. ## Caroline Watson (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-watson-53609125](https://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-watson-53609125) ## C40 Cities [https://www.c40.org](https://www.c40.org/)

Published 07 Jan 2026
Kicking off 2026, Paul and John are joined by one of the true legends of the UK fleet and rental industry – Tim Bailey. Fresh into retirement after a 37-year career spanning Alamo, National Car & Rental, Europcar, Redde, and Northgate. Tim shares his fascinating journey from petrol pump attendant in Dublin to leading fleets, shaping policy, and guiding the UK’s transition to electric vehicles—particularly vans. ## We cover: * Falling into fleet: how Tim accidentally discovered his lifelong career. * The EV van challenge: why decarbonising the commercial vehicle sector is so critical, and what must change. * Hall of Fame moments: how it felt to be recognised by Fleet News and the BVRLA for outstanding contribution. * Leadership lessons & life perspective: from navigating 9/11 and business administration in Europe to balancing family and career. * A wish for the industry: Tim’s EV Café Magic Wand moment for the future of zero-emission transport. ## Tim Bailey (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-bailey-9454502/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-bailey-9454502/)

Published 31 Dec 2025
In this special episode, we take a look back at all the EV Café Takeaway guests of 2025. We hand the wand (or seashell, block of wood, or lightning bolt…) to pioneers, collaborators, and innovators across the electric vehicle and sustainability world, asking them what their one wish would be… decarbonisation * 💰 **Professor Richard Allan** (University of Reading) 🪄 Make the full value of things we buy apparent * 🚗 **Melanie Shufflebotham** (ZapMap) 🪄 For there to be 10 available models of electric cars with at least 250 mile range for under £15,000 * 🌳 **Carla Detrieux** (Volta Trucks - now MAN) 🪄 Sustainability and for people to make the right choices * 😇 **Glenn Saint** (Prospedia Media) 🪄 For people to focus on the requirement when solving a problem * 🌡️ **Jonny Berry** (Novuna Vehicle Solutions) 🪄 Stop climate change * 📺 **Gary Comerford** (EV Musings) 🪄 High visibility public service announcements that dispel myths about EVs * 👶 **Mike Costain** (Nineteen Group) 🪄 Wants his kids to be happy * 💥 **Abby Chicken** (Openreach) 🪄 Wants to explode certain people * 🗣️ **Josh Spencer** (Ford & Slater) 🪄 Compel people better into EV adoption * 🔌 **Jonas Andersen** (Spirii) 🪄 More grid connections * 🚛 **Matt Eisenegger** (CV Driver) 🪄 Recognition for commercial vehicle drivers * 📈 **Ian Mills** (Spirit EV) 🪄 Wants his business to grow * 🧠 **Stephen Hards** (RHA) 🪄 Mental Health awareness * 🙂 **Rick Boullemier** (Generate Media) 🪄 Don’t be a prat * 🔋 **Will Reeves** (SMMT) 🪄 Charging infrastructure proliferation * 🧑⚖️ **Fraser Crichton** (Dundee City Council) 🪄 An holistic approach to renewable energy in government * 🚛 **Chris Welch** (Welch Group) 🪄 More logistics operators to embrace renewables * 📣 **John Fairlie** (AW Group) 🪄 Champion positive change * 🖖 **Chris Hazell** (Felten) 🪄 Wants to bring about a global government * 🛞 **Gunnlaugur Erlendsson** (Enso Tyres) 🪄 For more tyre companies to embrace sustainability * 🧑🍳 **Adam Bishop** (Strong Man / IVECO) 🪄 Personal chef * 🤝 **Ian Plumber** (Auto Trader) 🪄 Better inclusivity and representation in the industry * 🔋 **Rosario Surace** (Drax) 🪄 Getting power locally - not nationally * 👨⚖️ **Niall Riddell** (Paua) 🪄 Charging regulation should only be passed by those who will use it * 🚗 **James Rooney** (Network Rail) 🪄 Flying cars * ⭐️ **Brett Howton** (IVECO) 🪄 Wants to give people confidence * 🧱 **Trevor Palmer** (EV Blocks) 🪄 More of the same * 🧑⚖️ **Sarah Papamichalis** (Milence) 🪄 User-centric legislation * 🚑 **Jack Cousens** (The AA) 🪄 A greater focus on road safety * 🧠 **Tom Pearson** (CPD Bodies) 🪄 For people to be able to talk openly about mental health * 🔓 **Tim Campbell** (Campbell's Consultancy) 🪄 Unlock electrification and renewables in the truck industry * 💡 **Vicky Edmonds** (EVA England) 🪄 For electrification to be done already * 📍 **Faisan Ahmed** (First Bus) 🪄 A global platform for charging * 📉 **Tim Morris** (Europcar) 🪄 Fix the economy * 🤔 **Andrees Blin** (ChargePoint) 🪄 For car buyers to have an open mind * 📈 **Chris Bunce** (IVECO) 🪄 Stability in the market * 🚐 **Stephen Briers** (Bauer Media Group) 🪄 Van electrification * 🍷 **Evelyn Tourish** (Europcar) 🪄 Personal sommelier * 🙋♀️ **Michelle Breffitt** (Women Drive Electric) 🪄 Better vehicle experiences for women * 🎓 **Paul Hollic** (AFP) 🪄 AFP apprenticeship program * ❗️ **Philip Morris** (IVECO) 🪄 Willingness for change in the industry * 🇬🇧 **Chris Demitriou** (Islington Council) 🪄 For more London authorities to embrace decarbonisation * 🚗 **Stuart Murphy** (Royal Mail) 🪄 A family car with 400 mile range * 💬 **Lisa Thomas** (Motability Operations) 🪄 Awareness of Motability Operations' positive impact * 🤗 **Nigel Allsop** (BT) 🪄 For everyone to be healthy, prosperous, and to look out for each other * 🤝 **Michael Braybrook** (Zaptec) 🪄 More synergy between OEMs and utility companies * 🧒 **Srah Gray** (Dawnsongroup Vans) 🪄 Wants her daughter to be happy * 😖 **Rebecca Denyer** (Seabring Works) 🪄 Alleviation of frustration for things outside her control * 🏆 **Dale Eynon** (Fleet Consultant) 🪄 Better recognition for the industry * 🙌 **Lyndsey Hetherington** (Drax Electric Vehicles) 🪄 Let people be themselves * ⚡️ **Paul Kirby** 🪄 Certainty from Government * ⚡️**Sam Clarke** 🪄 More EV registrations, proliferation of EHGVs, for government to listen to the science * ⚡️ **Sara Sloman** 🪄 Let's help each other to succeed * ⚡️ **John Curtis** 🪄 Price parity between EVs / ICE vehicles

Published 24 Dec 2025
This week Paul and John welcome Lyndsey Hetherington, EV Charging Specialist at Drax Electric Vehicles. Lyndsey shares her unique journey from starting out in van and truck marketing to becoming a key player in helping fleets transition to zero-emission transport. She reflects on her formative years at Elmtronics, the challenges of building trust in a new industry, and how she balances career ambitions with the joys and chaos of family life. Discover: * The North East’s pioneering role as the home of EVs in the UK. * How real relationships, trust, and open advice can drive fleet electrification. * Insights into Drax’s renewable energy mission and the truth behind the headlines. * Lyndsey’s personal journey of growth and embracing change. * Why her magic wand wish is simply for a world filled with positive vibes and less negativity around EVs! ### Lyndsey Hetherington (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndseyhetherington/](https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndseyhetherington/) ### Drax Electric Vehicles (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/drax-electric-vehicles/?originalSubdomain\=uk](https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/drax-electric-vehicles/?originalSubdomain=uk)

Published 17 Dec 2025
This week, the EV Café team goes live at Fleet Mobility Live with a very special guest: Dale Eynon, former Head of Fleet at the Environment Agency and now a semi-retired consultant, passionate environmentalist, and mentor to the next generation of fleet leaders. With over 20 years’ experience managing 10,000+ diverse assets—from cars, vans and HGVs to marine vessels and heavy plant—Dale shares his journey from incident management into fleet, and the steep learning curve that followed. He reflects on: * The evolution of electric fleets – from early Nissan Leafs and Mitsubishi i-MiEvs to today’s 500-mile EVs * Winning hearts and minds to accelerate EV adoption and break down early myths * The van and 4x4 challenge – why rural operations, towing, and depot-free fleets remain one of the final frontiers for electrification * The power of BIK incentives and TCO modelling in driving fleet transitions * Culture, people, and resilience – key lessons from leading through change Dale also opens up about his “semi-early retirement”, his love of low-carbon travel, and his commitment to supporting the next generation of fleet professionals through the AFP and industry mentorship. If you want insight from someone who’s seen it all in the shift to zero emissions—and still believes the best is yet to come—this episode is for you. ## Dale Eynon (LinkedIn) [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-eynon-252a644](https://www.linkedin.com/in/dale-eynon-252a644)