The Inner Circle: A New Chapter in Storytelling, Connection and Redefining Success

By Sam Thomas

Something truly special happened last month.

On Wednesday 22nd October, inside the beautiful surroundings of Falmer Court, a small group of extraordinary people gathered around a single table. Olympic champions, serial entrepreneurs, MBEs, OBEs, and some of Sussex’s most inspiring business leaders, all under one roof. But this wasn’t your typical networking dinner. It wasn’t about business cards, small talk, or LinkedIn connections. This was the official launch of The Inner Circle, an evolution of our Top Table Dinners, created in proud partnership with Handelsbanken.

And what a night it was.

From Top Table to The Inner Circle

For over two years, the Top Table experiences have been quietly growing into something magical. Each month, a hand-picked group of business owners, changemakers, and thought leaders come together to share food, stories, and connection. The idea was never about business transactions; it was about conversations that matter, stories that remind us who we are beyond the titles and targets.

The Inner Circle takes that concept to the next level. It’s an invite-only community designed for leaders who are looking for something deeper. A space where the masks come off, and the stories come out. A place where success is redefined not by numbers, but by authenticity, balance, presence, fulfilment, and relationships, the Five Pillars of Success that underpin everything I do.

The Power of the Table

As I looked around the room, I had to take a moment. It was one of those rare times when you realise you’re witnessing the beginning of something special.

There was laughter, there was vulnerability, and there was honesty. People spoke openly about their challenges as well as their triumphs.

We laughed. We listened. We leaned into vulnerability, honesty, and humour.

Because that’s what happens when you bring the right people together in the right environment. Magic.

This wasn’t networking. This was something real. Something human.

A Night to Remember

The evening was made even more special thanks to the people and partners who made it possible.

My heartfelt thanks go to Simon Nicholson and the brilliant team at Handelsbanken, who believed in the vision from day one. Their support, and their shared commitment to building genuine community, has been instrumental in turning this idea into reality.

To Mark and Fran Woolley, who opened the doors of the stunning Falmer Court to us, thank you. It’s hard to describe the atmosphere of that space without seeing it in person. A perfect blend of heritage and modern elegance, it provided the perfect backdrop for meaningful conversation.

And to the incredible team at Humble Plates, you truly outdid yourselves. The food wasn’t just a meal; it was an experience. And finally to Jaimie and the amazing team at coordination event hire for providing us with all the catering equipment.

More Than a Dinner

What struck me most as the evening unfolded was how ready people are for spaces like this. Spaces that go beyond the surface. In a digital world filled with constant noise, filters, and algorithms, there is a hunger for authenticity, for conversations that go beneath the highlight reel.

That’s what The Inner Circle is about. It’s a reminder that true connection cannot be replicated online. It has to be felt, in eye contact, shared laughter, the pauses between stories, and the sense of belonging that comes from being seen and heard for who you really are.

Many of those seated around the table had also been guests on The Different Hats Podcast, where I’ve been privileged to hear hundreds of stories from remarkable individuals. And just like on the podcast, what emerged around the table wasn’t competition, it was connection.

Because behind every title, CEO, founder, Olympian, investor, is a human being with hopes, fears, dreams, and lessons to share.

The Beginning of a Movement

The Inner Circle is just the beginning. My mission has always been to change the narrative around success and to use storytelling as a tool for connection, healing, and growth.

Whether through the podcast, Top Table experiences, or future retreats and events, the goal remains the same, to bring together people who want to lead with heart, to show that strength and vulnerability can coexist, and to remind us all that leadership starts with humanity.

To everyone who shared the table that night, thank you. You showed up not just as leaders, but as people. You shared openly, listened deeply, and embraced the spirit of the evening. Your stories will stay with me for a long time.

Looking Ahead

As The Inner Circle grows, I hope it becomes a beacon for conscious leadership and meaningful connection. A place where ideas are born, collaborations flourish, and friendships deepen. A community where people come not to sell or be seen, but to share, listen, and grow.

Because in the end, business is not about competition, it’s about contribution.

And success? Maybe it’s simpler than we think.

“Success is the ongoing pursuit of personal fulfilment, meaningful relationships, and positive impact.”

That’s the journey we’re on together.

So I’ll leave you with the same question I was asked at the table:

How do you define success?