Hacks and Hobbies with Junaid Ahmed – Détails, épisodes et analyse

When the funding hits the bank, everything changes — your team, your decisions, your sleep. In this raw, curious conversation, Michael Haskell pulls back the curtain on the moment every founder either becomes a leader or gets eaten by growth. He explains how to spend with discipline, hire with rigor, and keep the sense of urgency that made you successful in the first place.

In this episode of Hacks and Hobbies, Michael and I dig into the fragile period after fundraising: the temptation to hire fast, the danger of diluted standards, and the single-minded focus that preserves runway and sanity. Michael shares the practical metrics, psychological habits, and leadership plays that let founders scale revenue without burning culture or cash — and why going “deep and narrow” beats globe-trotting growth streaks.

Five key takeaways

• Treat your war chest like a loan to yourself: spend to accelerate proven revenue engines, not to chase shiny new initiatives.
• Keep the bar high: scaling often erodes conversion and quality — use data-driven metrics to preserve urgency and margins.
• Hire selectively and surround yourself with experienced shareholders/mentors who’ve been through scale.
• Leadership sanity = self-care + continuous learning + positive psychology; neglecting any one leads to burnout.
• Go deep and narrow before you go wide: capture more share locally before burning cash to enter new geographies.

Timestamps

• 0:00 — Episode setup: Why the post-fundraise moment defines companies
• 1:11 — The most common mistake founders make after funding: hiring and quality slip
• 4:50 — Metrics that tell you when to hire and when to hold back
• 8:01 — Keeping urgency alive: why conversion rates fall as lead volume rises
• 9:09 — Advice for first-time founders managing 50 people overnight
• 12:11 — Three plays to scale without losing your mind (self-care, learning, mindset)
• 16:18 — The one lesson to remember after raising capital: don’t chase too many initiatives

Guest links

• Navitas Consulting — (website) - https://navitasgroup.ph/
• Michael Haskell — LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/navitasitgroup/

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This episode made me rethink everything I believed about fundraising — not as a sprint for cash, but as a discipline of integrity, patience, and business hygiene.

Michael Haskell walks us through two decades of building finance teams across New Zealand, Australia, Singapore and the US — and the exact playbook he uses to help founders raise capital without selling their soul. From the early bootstrap choices to the 1–5M sweet spot and the scary truth about VC term sheets, Michael strips away the noise and gives a clear, humane path: prepare your books, pick investors who add real value, and learn to walk away. If you’re building a business that needs fuel (but not a takeover), this conversation is a masterclass in raising money with confidence.

5 key takeaways

• Integrity over glamour: investors back founders who show character, persistence, and a clear plan more than flashy slides.
• Start small and smart: bootstrap or friends & family at seed, then selectively target HNWIs or VCs as your growth justifies it.
• Business hygiene is non‑negotiable: keep IFRS-style reporting and annual audits so you can move fast when opportunity comes.
• Pick investors for skill, not just cash: raise with people who bring legal, accounting or strategic value, not just checks.
• Patience + resilience = power: be prepared to walk away from favorable-sounding deals with hidden, harmful terms.

Timestamps (5–7)

• 00:00 — Why I stopped treating fundraising as a scoreboard (intro)
• 02:00 — Leaving the US for APAC: culture, pace and the restaurant metaphor for global talent
• 05:10 — Seed vs. scale: when to bootstrap, when to phone angels, and when VC makes sense
• 09:40 — What investors really look for: integrity, track record, and believable growth
• 15:30 — The 1–5M playbook: how to be selective and why that matters before you go public
• 17:45 — Audit-ready business hygiene: the single prep that saves you millions and sleepless nights
• 18:50 — Patience, resilience and negotiating with VCs (walk-away power)

Guest links

https://navitasgroup.ph/

https://www.facebook.com/navitasgroupph/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/navitasitgroup/

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What if success didn’t mean sacrificing your health, family or sanity? 

In this episode Junaid sits down with Leo Gestetner — founder, CEO, and late-blooming endurance athlete — to unpack how to build thriving companies without burning out. Leo recounts starting as a 13‑year‑old selling secondhand computers, transforming his life from “couch potato” to marathoner and triathlete, and reframing entrepreneurship as a long race, not a sprint.

This conversation blends practical routines (what gets scheduled gets done), hard-earned resilience (the “wall” in marathons and business), and the emotional payoff of pacing yourself for a sustained, meaningful life. If you’re tired of hustle porn and want a playbook for sustainable ambition, this episode is a masterclass in balance, discipline, and reimagining success.

Top takeaways:

• Schedule your life: you won’t make time for fitness, family, or reflection unless you calendar it.
• Build for the long game: treat business like a marathon — pace, recovery, and consistency matter more than bursts.
• Reframe failure: setbacks teach more than success; willingness to fail is a core entrepreneurial advantage.
• Manage energy, not just time: focus on what gives you the most value and protects your health span.
• Small, repeatable habits scale: achievable challenges compound into lasting transformation.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 — Intro & Leo’s origin story: selling computers at 13
• 02:30 — From entrepreneur’s DNA to need-driven hustle: early influences
• 04:40 — The turning point: choosing sustainable success over pure scale
• 06:50 — Scheduling, boundaries & routines that protect family and fitness
• 09:40 — Marathons as metaphors: hitting the wall in sport and business
• 14:00 — Culture of failure: what Steve Jobs and Corning taught about risk
• 17:30 — Pacing life: digital nomad chapter and lessons on reinvention

Guest links:

• Website: https://leogestetner.com
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leogestetner (search “Leo Gestetner” on LinkedIn)
• Podcast appearances & resources: (see personal website for links)

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What if the key to your business growth isn’t more ads, but more authenticity?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson—live video strategist, digital stage pioneer, and founder of Take One Tech—to reveal the untold truths behind building a magnetic brand in the digital age.

Alec shares the real reason live video transforms strangers into superfans, the overlooked tech upgrades that instantly boost your presence, and the emotional journey of turning online connections into lifelong relationships.

Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or just starting out, Alec’s story will challenge what you think you know about content, connection, and confidence. Get ready for actionable insights, honest confessions, and a roadmap to monetizing your passion—without losing your soul.

What You'll Learn :

• The simplest live video setup that anyone can start with—no fancy gear required

• Why audio quality matters more than video (and the affordable mic Alec swears by)

• The “confidence monitor” trick that instantly levels up your on-camera presence

• How to turn casual viewers into loyal clients—Alec’s secret to building trust

• The #1 mistake that kills engagement (and the new tools that fix it for good)

**Timestamps:**

• 00:01 — Why Live Video Is a Game Changer for Entrepreneurs

• 01:05 — The Beginner’s Setup: Start Simple, Sound Great

• 03:20 — Level Up: The Two Upgrades That Transform Your Production

• 06:34 — The Real Secret to Audience Engagement (and What Most Get Wrong)

• 12:26 — From Streams to Sales: Turning Viewers into Clients

• 15:35 — Monetization 101: The First Step Alec Wishes He Took Sooner

• 18:57 — Dream Locations, Real Connections: Alec’s Vision for the Future

**Guest Links:**

• Website: takeonetech.io

• YouTube: [Take One Tech 2](https://www.youtube.com/@TakeOneTech2)

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What if the only thing standing between you and your audience is a single moment of courage?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson, founder of Take One Tech and creator of Digital Stage Academy, to uncover the raw truth behind building confidence, clarity, and connection in the world of live video. Alec reveals the hidden fears, the power of community, and the game-changing mindset shifts that separate those who merely show up from those who truly command the digital stage.

Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or someone terrified of hitting “Go Live,” this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to embrace imperfection, authenticity, and growth. Discover why your first live stream is never as scary as you think—and how the right support can turn your biggest mistakes into your greatest strengths.

What You'll Learn :

• Confidence is built through repetition, authenticity, and embracing imperfection.

• The Ecamm Live community’s support is a game-changer for creators at every level.

• Your first live stream is rarely watched—so use it as a safe space to grow.

• Mistakes and tech failures are not setbacks; they’re opportunities for real connection.

• Start simple: focus on your message, not the gear, and let your skills evolve naturally.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Alec Johnson’s Journey: From One-Take Videos to Digital Stage Mastery

• 03:44 – The “Aha” Moment: Why Authenticity Beats Perfection Every Time

• 08:00 – The Biggest Fear: Is Anyone Really Watching Your First Live Stream?

• 10:45 – When Tech Fails: Turning Bloopers into Unbreakable Confidence

• 12:35 – The 3 Cs: Clarity, Confidence, and Connection Explained

• 14:52 – Scuba Diving & Live Video: Staying Calm When Everything Goes Wrong

• 19:58 – The Most Ironic On-Camera Blooper (and What It Taught Alec)

Guest Links:

• Website: Take One Tech (placeholder)

• LinkedIn: Alec Johnson on LinkedIn (placeholder)

• Instagram: @takeonetech (placeholder)

• Book: Digital Stage Academy (placeholder)

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What if the secret to lifelong health isn’t a radical overhaul, but a series of tiny, consistent steps?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with renowned wellness coach Tess Cheng, whose journey and coaching philosophy are reshaping how we think about self-care. Tess reveals the science and stories behind building habits that last, sharing why “starting small” is the most powerful tool for transformation.

From the influence of “Atomic Habits” to the real-life micro-habits that keep busy people thriving, Tess opens up about her own struggles, breakthroughs, and the emotional side of wellness. Whether you’re overwhelmed by change or searching for practical ways to prioritize yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action—one small step at a time.

What You'll Learn:

• Why starting with just 10 minutes can change your life—and your brain.

• The hidden power of hydration and movement for busy professionals.

• How to “habit stack” for effortless self-improvement.

• The #1 strategy for disease prevention and long-term vitality.

• Tess’s personal chapter title: “Sharing my knowledge with others is the most beautiful thing on earth.”

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Power of Small Steps: Tess’s approach to sustainable wellness

• 01:07 – Atomic Habits: How James Clear’s book shaped Tess’s coaching

• 03:03 – Meditation & Breathing: Why less is more for beginners

• 04:28 – Micro-Habits for Busy Lives: Hydration, movement, and brain breaks

• 06:29 – The Longevity Secret: Movement as medicine for mind and body

• 08:20 – Scheduling Self-Care: Making wellness non-negotiable

• 10:46 – Tess’s Chapter Title: The beauty of sharing knowledge

Guest Links:

• Website: Glow with Tess

• LinkedIn: Not provided

• Instagram: Not provided

• Book: Not provided

This episode is your invitation to start small, stay consistent, and discover the joy of lifelong wellness—straight from a coach who’s living proof that tiny habits can spark massive change.

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What if your family’s health history could become your greatest source of strength?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Tess Cheng, a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience and a master’s in clinical nutrition from NYU.

Tess’s journey from navigating hypoglycemia and a family legacy of diabetes to empowering others with practical, science-backed wellness strategies is as inspiring as it is actionable.

Discover how Tess transformed personal adversity into a mission to help others reclaim control over their health. She shares the mindset shifts, daily habits, and science-driven insights that make wellness achievable—even for the busiest lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, Tess’s story will show you that small, consistent steps can lead to lifelong transformation.

What You'll Learn:

• Your genes are not your destiny—prevention and mindful choices can rewrite your health story.

• Sustainable wellness starts with one small habit at a time, not an all-or-nothing overhaul.

• Sleep is the secret weapon for better health, weight management, and decision-making.

• Mindset matters: treat your health like a long-term investment, not a quick fix.

• Support, education, and self-compassion are the keys to lasting change.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Meet Tess Cheng: From family health struggles to wellness authority

• [01:11] The wake-up call: Discovering hypoglycemia and taking control

• [04:06] How clinical nutrition shaped Tess’s coaching philosophy

• [06:35] The real reason we sabotage our sleep—and how to fix it

• [09:48] Overcoming overwhelm: Tess’s step-by-step approach to building habits

• [11:26] The mindset shift that changes everything: Health as a long game

• [13:50] Where to find Tess and start your own wellness journey

Guest Links:

• Website: GlowWithTess.com

• (No LinkedIn, Instagram, or book links provided in this episode. For more, visit Tess’s website.)

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered life, this episode is your blueprint.

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What if the secret to building an audio empire is listening, not talking?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Charlie Birney—co-founder of Podville Media, author of The Tao of Podcasting, and the “Chief Listening Officer”—to uncover the surprising journey from golf courses and property management to the heart of the podcasting revolution.

Charlie shares how embracing change, following curiosity, and prioritizing connection over content transformed his career and the industry.

Discover the philosophy behind podcasting’s most intimate moments, the power of internal podcasts, and why the best studios are built on empathy and service. This is a masterclass in reinvention, creativity, and the art of truly listening.

What You'll Learn:

• Why “intimacy” is the secret ingredient that makes podcasting so powerful—and how to harness it.

• The story behind Podville Media’s evolution from “Podcast Village” and the rise of video in audio spaces.

• How Charlie’s background in real estate and philanthropy shaped his approach to building creative businesses.

• The philosophy and inspiration behind “The Tao of Podcasting”—and why every podcaster needs a moment of silence before the sound.

• How music, family, and hobbies fuel creativity and keep the entrepreneurial spirit alive.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Meeting at Podfest: The serendipity that sparked a creative partnership

• 04:30 – From Golf Courses to Podcast Studios: Reinventing a career through curiosity

• 10:15 – The Birth of Podville Media: Why video changed everything

• 17:40 – The Tao of Podcasting: Philosophy, art, and the “yin-yang microphone”

• 25:05 – The Power of Internal Podcasts: Connecting companies from the inside out

• 32:20 – Music, Community, and Giving Back: How folk music and charity shape a life

• 39:00 – Lightning Round: Favorite mics, dream guests, and the “boredom boogie” song

Connect with Our Guest:

• Website: https://podvillemedia.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliebirney/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podvillemedia/

• Book: The Tao of Podcasting (Amazon) – https://www.amazon.com/Tao-Podcasting-Charlie-Birney/dp/B0C5YJ8K9F

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What if the secret to thriving isn’t about being the toughest in the room, but the most adaptable?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Rand Selig—veteran investment banker, author of "Thriving," and master of intentional living—to uncover the hidden strategies behind building a life and career filled with purpose, energy, and fulfillment.

From turning down a giant corporate offer to redefining what it means to be successful, Rand shares raw stories and practical tools for anyone ready to break free from society’s expectations. Discover how resilience, relationships, and a service mindset can transform setbacks into opportunities—and why your only real competition is the person in the mirror.

What You'll Learn:

• Why resilience is about bouncing back, not just being tough—think rubber ball, not metal.

• The power of saying “no” to deals that don’t align with your values, even when Goliath comes knocking.

• How to stop letting society define your success and start living by your own standards.

• The three pillars of a thriving mindset: service, intentional relationships, and relentless positivity.

• Why your greatest growth comes from evolving past your former self—not outshining others.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Rubber Ball vs. The Metal Ball: What True Resilience Looks Like

• 04:15 – David vs. Goliath: Turning Down a Giant and Winning Your Freedom

• 10:30 – Redefining Success: Are You Living for Yourself or for Society?

• 16:45 – The Man in the Mirror: Competing with Your Former Self

• 21:20 – The Power of Mentorship and Building Your Support Circle

• 26:00 – Three Tools for Thriving: Service, Relationships, and Positivity

• 32:10 – Star Trek, Beekeepers, and the Secret to Attracting Opportunity

**Guest Links:**

• Website: randselig.com

• LinkedIn: Rand Selig on LinkedIn

• Book: "Thriving" by Rand Selig on Amazon

• Instagram: @randselig

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What if thriving isn’t about chasing someone else’s definition of success, but about making intentional choices every single day?

In this powerful episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with entrepreneur, coach, and conservationist Rand Selig, author of "Thriving," to uncover the real science and psychology behind living a life of vitality, fulfillment, and meaning.Rand shares the untold story behind his book, the daily habits that fuel his energy, and the mindset shifts that separate those who merely survive from those who truly thrive. This conversation is packed with practical wisdom, emotional depth, and the kind of curiosity-driven insights that will make you rethink what’s possible in your own life.

What You'll Learn:

• Thriving starts with intentional choices and self-awareness—write down your values and revisit them often.

• Success is personal: define it on your own terms, not by society’s standards.

• Building resilience means embracing new chapters, learning from mistakes, and staying curious.

• Energy and vitality are sustained by daily habits, self-care, and knowing when to recharge.

• True connection comes from being present, reflecting on experiences, and nurturing relationships.

Timestamps:

• 00:04 – The Untold Story Behind "Thriving": Why Rand Wrote the Book

• 03:15 – The Power of Intentional Choices: How to Design Your Life

• 06:01 – Redefining Success: Why You Must Own Your Definition

• 08:45 – Slowing Down to Reflect: Lessons from the Pandemic

• 10:03 – The Psychology of Thriving: Practical Tools for Growth

• 13:41 – Daily Habits for Energy and Joy: Rand’s Personal Rituals

• 17:03 – Life Lessons from Geology: Embracing Change and Curiosity

Connect with Our Guest:

• Website: [Rand Selig’s Website]

• LinkedIn: [Rand Selig on LinkedIn]

• Instagram: [@RandSelig]

• Book: ["Thriving" by Rand Selig]

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