Why it matters: The 43-year-old Ipswich resident beat The Dark Destroyer Shaun Wallace on ITV's The Chase last year and has used his prize money to fund a complete career change from insurance to body piercing.
The big picture: Mario had been working in the insurance sector for eight years but struggled to break into the body piercing industry without financial backing. His TV appearance provided the safety net he needed to take the plunge.
"I've tried to get into the body piercing industry for years, but found it difficult to take the plunge without some financial backup," he said. "However, once I won the Chase money, I knew it was now or never."
The details: After his television victory, Mario studied at the London Piercing Academy and received mentoring from Northamptonshire's top body piercer before returning to Ipswich to open his own studio.
What they’re saying: "It's scary stepping out on my own, no business partners, no financiers, no safety net. But I have faith in my business model and my abilities."
When comparing the fear of opening a business to facing a Chaser on television, Mario said: "I had nothing to lose on The Chase. Opening this business, I have everything on the line. But I also know that I am good at my job, and I know this will be more fun than being on The Chase was."
Originally from Kettering, Mario is proud to start his business in Ipswich, citing his love for the town he now calls home.
"I may not have been born in Ipswich, but it is my home and I genuinely love this town," he says. "Between the amazing success of the football team over the past few years and the wonderful homecoming joy that Ed Sheeran brings, I am so proud to be a member of the Ipswich community."
What's next: Mario aims to create a comfortable, safe environment for customers, prioritising their comfort above all else whilst offering “one of the best selections of jewellery in town.”
The bottom line: The £3,500 television quiz victory has given this Ipswich resident the cash and confidence to leave a stable career and launch his dream business in our town centre. You can find Body Piercing by Mario Covone at the Microshops on Carr Street.
