Episodes

  • EP27: The Rollboys story with George Artemi
    Jul 8 2025

    🍩 From Stagnant to Star: George Artemi’s Sweet Success with Roll Boys | Champion Contender Podcast.

    In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Champion Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with George Artemi, founder of Roll Boys — the cinnamon roll sensation taking Stratford, London by storm. George opens up about his rollercoaster journey: 😔 From career uncertainty and anxiety during COVID 💸 To nearly hitting financial rock bottom 🍥 To launching a dessert brand now backed by Nike and loved by celebs You’ll hear how George found clarity through chaos, turned rejection into drive, and built a brand rooted in creativity, resilience, and community. He also shares how he mastered social media marketing, built a loyal customer base, and created an unmissable dessert experience.

    Plus — don’t miss our SHOT STOPPER: Dessert Edition, where George ranks his all-time greatest sweet treats 🍰🔥 If you're an aspiring entrepreneur, foodie, or just love real stories of grit and growth — this one hits the spot 👊

    00:00 Welcome to the Champion Contender Podcast

    00:14 Introducing George Artemi: The Cinnamon Roll Maestro

    01:11 George's Journey: From Uncertainty to Cinnamon Rolls

    02:30 The Birth of Roll Boys

    05:37 Overcoming Challenges and Building a Brand

    06:51 The Power of Belief and Creativity

    07:23 Compromises and Sacrifices

    08:39 The Struggles and Triumphs of Entrepreneurship

    15:42 Why Cinnamon Rolls?

    19:05 Marketing and Social Media Strategy

    21:49 Mental Health and Managing Anxiety

    28:39 Superstitions and Haunted Stories

    33:06 The Roll Boys Experience: Flavors and Processes

    42:13 Celebrity Endorsements and Customer Experience

    46:56 The Power of Social Media Marketing

    47:59 The Copper Box Arena Opportunity

    49:13 From Football Dreams to Reality

    50:26 The Struggles and Anxiety of Athletes

    51:46 Channeling Rejection into Success

    57:37 Shot Stopper: Dessert Edition

    01:09:14 Proudest Moments with Roll Boys

    01:11:56 Future Plans and Vision

    01:18:58 Quick Fire Questions

    01:23:49 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    📲 Follow Champion Contender Podcast:

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    📧 Business Inquiries: champandcontenderpodcast@gmail.com

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    1 hr and 26 mins
  • EP26: Louie McLean: From Comedy Courses to Touring with Josh James
    Jul 1 2025

    Louie McLean: From Comedy Courses to Touring with Josh James

    Welcome to another episode of the Champ and Contender Podcast! Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore as they chat with rising comedian Louie McLean. In this episode, Louie shares his journey from comedy courses to opening for Josh James on tour. Listen in as they discuss the challenges of stand-up, memorable gigs, dealing with hecklers, and balancing a budding comedy career with fatherhood. Enjoy their hilarious recounts of nights out, thoughts on iconic British sitcoms, and insights into the comedy industry. Don't miss this entertaining and insightful conversation in Joseph and Fabian's cozy pub setting!

    00:00 Welcome to the Champion Contender Podcast

    00:23 Introducing Comedian Louie McLean

    01:36 Louie's Journey into Comedy

    04:45 Challenges and Triumphs in Comedy

    10:04 Balancing Comedy and Personal Life

    19:25 The Reality of Social Media and Comedy

    25:32 International Tour Highlights

    26:10 Touring with Josh: The Experience

    27:10 Challenges of Crowd Work

    28:22 Evolving as a Comedian

    29:04 Opening Acts and Audience Reactions

    30:41 Writing and Performing Sketches

    31:49 Balancing Comedy and Family Life

    42:34 British Sitcom Showdown

    49:14 Controversial Comedy Shows

    50:51 Inbetweeners vs. Gavin and Stacey

    52:23 Favorite Sketch Shows

    56:10 The Impact of YouTube

    56:43 Podcasting and Sponsorship

    57:54 Comedy Influences and Inspirations

    01:02:33 Cancel Culture in Comedy

    01:08:12 Advice for Aspiring Comedians

    01:09:19 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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    1 hr and 13 mins
  • EP25: Seye Adelekan: From Gorillaz to Growth — Navigating Music, Sobriety & Personal Discovery
    Jun 24 2025

    Unfiltered Conversations with Gorillaz Bassist Seye Adelekan | Champ and Contender Podcast.

    In this episode of The Champ and Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with Seye Adelekan, the talented bassist and singer-songwriter known for his work with Gorillaz and Damon Albarn. Seye shares his incredible journey from his multicultural upbringing to becoming a renowned session musician. The conversation delves into the pressures and challenges of staying sober, the evolving music industry, and the importance of creative versatility. With a fun segment on iconic bass players and a special live performance of his current single 'Fire Escape,' this episode offers a deep dive into the life and insights of a multifaceted artist.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:32 Introducing Seye Adelekan

    01:05 The Journey of a Creative

    01:50 Identity and Creativity

    05:02 Growing Up with Music

    20:21 Joining Gorillaz and Working with Damon Albarn

    35:41 Inspiration and Creativity

    43:40 Exploring Creativity and Sobriety

    44:44 Navigating Social Situations Sober

    45:44 The Emotional Journey of Sobriety

    49:56 Personal Approaches to Sobriety

    52:04 The Role of Music in Recovery

    53:12 Bass Player Showdown

    01:08:51 The Evolution of the Music Industry

    01:20:29 Advice for Aspiring Musicians

    01:23:19 Live Performance: 'Fire Escape'

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    1 hr and 28 mins
  • EP24: "Pineapple Pullen" to Olympic Hopeful – Freddie Pullen on Setbacks, Sacrifice & Big Dreams.
    Jun 17 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on this episode of the Champ and Contender podcast as they interview rising boxing talent, Freddie Pullen. At just 21 years old, Freddie shares his journey from starting boxing at the age of seven to winning the prestigious ABA Elite Championships. Freddie discusses his inspirations, including Manny Pacquiao and Conor McGregor, his experience boxing across the globe, and the mental and physical challenges of the sport. Discover what motivates Freddie to keep pushing forward, the value of amateur careers in boxing, and his future aspirations, including a potential Olympic run. Featuring engaging segments like 'Shots Stopper' and 'Last Orders,' this episode dives deep into the world of a boxer with immense potential and determination.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:23 Introducing Freddie Pullen: Rising Boxing Star

    01:14 Freddie's Boxing Journey: From Childhood to Championships

    02:07 Influences and Inspirations in Boxing

    04:55 Winning the Senior Elite Title

    10:59 The Importance of Amateur Boxing

    13:11 Facing International Competition

    17:23 The Dream of the Olympics

    21:42 The Role of Kevin Mitchell in Freddie's Career

    27:08 Reflecting on Drinking Habits

    29:02 The Impact of Alcohol on Performance

    32:08 Training and Sparring Experiences

    33:14 Amateur vs. Professional Boxing

    41:27 Sponsorships and Financial Realities in Boxing

    42:49 Shot Stopper Game: Comparing Fighters

    52:33 Kevin Mitchell vs. Joe Cordina Debate

    53:18 Analyzing Tank Davis's Boxing Skills

    54:14 The Challenges of Staying Committed in Boxing

    56:42 Freddie's Coaching Journey

    01:02:17 The Importance of West Ham Boxing Club

    01:05:32 Dream Venues and Future Fights

    01:09:08 Freddie's Personal Reflections and Advice

    01:17:17 Final Thoughts and Farewell

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    1 hr and 18 mins
  • EP23: Fathers Day Special : Nick Gibbons: The Fighter, The Father
    Jun 15 2025

    The Champ and Contender Podcast: An Unexpected Guest Shares Boxing Tales and Life Lessons.

    In this episode of The Champ and Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore welcome a surprise guest — Joseph's father, an ABA boxer with a wealth of stories. The discussion covers his early boxing years, the importance of starting young, training regimens, iconic fights, and personal anecdotes from his colourful life, including his time as an 18-30s holiday rep. The episode offers a nostalgic look at boxing's golden era and delves into the mindset and challenges faced by both amateur and professional boxers. Tune in for an engaging blend of humour, history, and heartfelt moments.

    00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Guest

    01:10 Early Boxing Days

    03:38 Training and Techniques

    05:27 Memorable Fights and Challenges

    08:55 The Role of Confidence in Boxing

    14:40 Balancing Boxing and Life

    23:40 Reflections on Modern Boxing

    25:06 Tyson Fury's Comeback Journey

    26:58 Comparing Tyson Fury to Muhammad Ali

    28:21 From Boxing to Entertainment: A Personal Story

    31:40 The Game: Shot Stopper

    34:21 Debating the Greatest Heavyweights

    44:04 The Golden Era of Heavyweight Boxing

    46:41 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

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    48 mins
  • EP22: PPQQ (Public Pub Quiz Questions) Special Guest Bobby Webster. Answering the Publics Random Questions
    Jun 3 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on the latest episode of the Champ and Contender Podcast as they welcome special guest Bobby Webster. Watch as they dive into the fun and unpredictable game 'Double P Double Q' (Public Pub Quiz Questions), tackling a series of hilarious and thought-provoking questions submitted by the public. From 'Smash, Marry, Kill' to discussing historical figures they'd like to meet, and even pondering the most embarrassing moments of their lives, this episode is packed with laughter, surprise, and candid moments. Plus, Bobby reveals his all-time Premier League starting eleven. Tune in for a mix of humour, nostalgia, and genuine conversation.

    00:00 Welcome to the Champ and Contender Podcast

    00:07 Introducing the Special Guest: Bobby Webster

    00:51 The Game Begins: Double P Double Q

    01:43 Hilarious Public Pub Quiz Questions

    03:11 Historical Figures and Personal Memories

    07:25 Embarrassing Moments and Childhood Memories

    12:03 Future Aspirations and Personal Goals

    25:02 Musical Tastes and Iconic Performances

    31:18 Debating Unusual Scenarios

    33:11 Death Row Last Meal

    34:34 Dream House in Barbados

    36:23 Favourite Video Games

    43:01 Regrets and Reflections

    54:40 All-Time Premier League XI

    01:02:58 Closing Remarks

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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • EP21: The Art of Balance Just Geen’s Fitness and Life Tips
    May 27 2025

    In this episode of The Champ & Contender Podcast, hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore sit down with none other than Just Geen (@just_geen) — fitness coach, online trainer, and creator of the viral “Beats and Bands” program. 🏋🏾‍♀️🎶 Geen keeps it all the way real about her journey — from leaving a bad relationship and a 9–5 job to becoming a full-time fitness entrepreneur, building a loyal community, and collaborating with brands like Gymshark. 💼➡️💪🏾 💥 What’s inside: How a breakup sparked her glow-up ❤️‍🔥 Building her meal prep business from scratch 🍱 Creating Beats and Bands — dance + resistance training 🔥 Life in Ghana 🇬🇭 and growing a global fitness brand 🌍 Talking cycles, Pilates, inclusivity, and staying authentic as a fitness leader 👯‍♀️📲 And of course — we wrap it up with a powerful edition of our signature game Shot Stopper, where Geen gives her takes on iconic Black women leaders and legends. 👑🎯 If you’re into fitness, real talk, business moves, and boss energy — this one’s for you. 🎧 Hit play. Subscribe. Let’s get it.

    ⏱ TIMESTAMPS:

    00:00 – Welcome

    00:17 – Meet Just Geen

    02:25 – How her fitness journey started

    04:27 – Her meal prep hustle

    07:12 – Creating Beats & Bands

    13:11 – Partnering with Gymshark

    20:02 – Her vision for a global fitness festival

    32:50 – Understanding female fitness cycles

    36:53 – How social media affects fitness goals

    45:50 – Shot Stopper: Powerful Black Women

    01:09:03 – Geen’s tips for beginners

    01:12:55 – Wrap up + socials

    🔗 FOLLOW US ON SOCIALS:

    📍 YouTube: @TheChampAndContenderPodcast

    📍 Instagram: @champandcontender

    📍 TikTok: @champandcontender

    📍 Twitter / X: @ChampContender

    📍 Spotify & Apple Podcasts: The Champ & Contender Podcast

    📍 Guest: @just_geen

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    1 hr and 32 mins
  • EP20 Unleashing ‘The Instigator’ — Interview with Boxer Sonny Hardy
    May 20 2025

    Join hosts Joseph J. Jones and Fabian Collymore on the Champion Contender Podcast as they sit down with rising British boxing talent, Sonny “The Instigator” Hardy 🔥 From his roots at Charlton Boxing Club to training with former world title challenger Kevin Mitchell, Sonny shares his journey from amateur standout to professional fighter. He opens up about sparring elite champions like Joe Cordina, his grueling training sessions, and the family dynamics that shaped his fighting spirit 🧬 We also explore: His dreams of title fights in the lightweight division The West Ham connection 🏟️⚒️ The reality of selling tickets as a rising pro Insights into fighting style, rivals, and respect in the sport * A fun round of "Shot Stopper" where Sonny picks who he’d fight, duck, or stop 🧠🎯 Whether you're a fan of UK boxing, looking for under-the-radar prospects, or just love a great story — this episode’s a knockout 👊

    ⏱️ Timestamps:

    00:00 – Welcome to the Champion Contender Podcast

    00:47 – Introducing Sonny 'The Instigator' Hardy

    02:40 – Training Under Kevin Mitchell

    04:30 – Transition from Amateur to Professional

    06:01 – Father-Son Dynamics in Boxing

    09:24 – Influences and Fighting Style

    14:45 – Sparring with Joe Cordina

    18:54 – Toughest Fights and Future Aspirations

    23:23 – The Challenges of Selling Tickets

    27:42 – Selling Out the Stadium: A West Ham Dream

    28:14 – Loyalty and Rivalries in the West Ham Fanbase

    29:36 – The Amateur to Pro Journey

    30:31 – Training & Mentorship with Charlie Blake

    31:19 – Turning Pro: The Leap of Faith

    32:20 – Standing Out in the Lightweight Division

    33:58 – Dream Fights & Mutual Respect

    35:32 – “Shot Stopper” Game: Who Gets Stopped?

    45:22 – Future Plans: Titles and Moving Weight

    48:06 – Advice for Young Boxers 💬

    50:17 – West Ham x Boxing: The Local Bond

    52:05 – Wrap-Up with Sonny Hardy

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    54 mins