Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast James Reed: all about business
| Titre | Date | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 102. The blueprint to success by solving community friction | Sarah Stone | 26 Oct 2026 | 00:42:39 | |
Stop treating social value as a box-ticking exercise, align community needs with your bottom line and turn operational friction into a superpower. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Sarah Stone, founder of the social value consultancy Samtaler. Together they explore how companies can integrate purpose and profitability without falling into the trap of superficial tokenism. Sarah shares the candid realities of scaling a micro-consultancy, the lessons learned from her background in Downing Street, and how helping renewable energy developers solve local community friction turned into an industry-standard blueprint for success. The conversation dives deep into the mechanics of public sector procurement, the hidden costs of operational inflexibility, and why true social value must drive commercial performance rather than distract from it. Sarah also reflects on founding the Military Coworking Network out of personal necessity, the critical importance of cash flow management for founders, and why listening to your gut and focusing on real-world problems is the ultimate foundation for a resilient enterprise. Whether you want to navigate regulated markets, build a purpose-led operating model, or scale an impactful business, this episode delivers essential leadership insights. Timestamps 03:44 Name Meaning Samtaler 11:48 Sweet Spot Business Value 24:01 Mission to Improve Business 28:25 Scaling and Winning Support 31:31 Startup Help and Mentors 33:57 Advice for Impact Businesses 38:11 Future of Social Impact Links Follow Sarah Stone on LinkedIn Find out more about Samtaler and their services here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 101. How to make your business community your competitive advantage| Ros Morgan | 19 Oct 2026 | 01:02:54 | |
For years, this Ros showed up to work as someone she wasn't, and it took her far longer than she'd like to admit to realise it was quietly costing her the thing she needed most. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Ros Morgan, chief executive of the Heart of London Business Alliance, the organisation representing over 500 businesses across London's West End. Ros explains why, early in her career, she believed professionalism meant suppressing her personality entirely, dressing to fit in with an all-male board and refusing to discuss anything personal at work, and the moment she decided to deliberately drop that act. She breaks down why being more open with her team, rather than less, ended up making her more credible as a leader, not less. The conversation also unpacks a second lesson from Ros' own career: her habit of saying yes to opportunities before she felt fully ready for them, including taking on her first CEO role in her early twenties with no real knowledge of the industry she was stepping into. She explains why she believes the businesses that succeed are the ones that get out and learn from their peers rather than trying to solve every problem alone. Timestamps 01:41 What Is a BID 09:50 Scenes in the Square 17:53 London Safety Perception 29:53 How London Stays Ahead 36:21 Real Rates Reform Plan 45:46 Japan Resilience Lessons 57:29 Hiring For Culture Fit Links Find out more about Heart of London Business Alliance and their work here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 100. Building a brand people love and when to walk away | Cath Kidston | 12 Oct 2026 | 00:58:53 | |
The moment a business starts making real money is exactly when it's most at risk of losing what made it work in the first place. In this special 100th episode of All About Business, James sits down with entrepreneur Cath Kidston MBE, who built a single shop into a globally recognised brand, watched its values slip once investors and private equity got involved, and has spent her second business, C.Atherley, making sure it never happens again. Cath breaks down why she believes founders need to define their brand values early and write them down, long before growth, investment, or pressure to cut costs ever arrives. She explains how her first business began compromising on quality once money and new voices entered the business, and why a gut-instinct decision she couldn't justify on a spreadsheet turned out to be the right call all along. The conversation also unpacks why building slowly and deliberately is better than scaling too early. Cath explains why she spent four to five years getting the foundations right in both of her businesses before pushing for growth, and why she believes it's nearly impossible to fix a business's culture or values once they've already slipped. Timestamps (Audio) 01:46 C.Atherley Origins 08:55 Four Signature Scents 14:59 Building Smarter This Time 26:06 Naming Your Business 32:17 Brand Values No Compromise 38:52 Hiring Ops To Scale 43:09 Modern Marketing And Property Links Find out more about C. Atherley and their products here Find out more about Joy of print and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 99. How to cash out without selling out | Guy Singh-Watson | 05 Oct 2026 | 01:00:06 | |
Every founder eventually hits a decision that determines whether their company survives them or dies with them. Almost all of them get it wrong. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford Organic Farmers, who turned three acres and a borrowed tractor into a £120 million business, and found a way to cash out on his terms without ever putting the company up for sale. Guy breaks down why he sold shares to his own staff instead of chasing a trade sale or private equity deal, and the near-£2 million mistake Riverford made along the way. He also shares the moment he walked away from a major retail contract and why no single customer, however large, should ever be allowed to dictate your terms. The conversation unpacks what changed once Guy made the shift to employee ownership. He also gets candid about leading as an intuitive, emotionally-driven founder, and how a genuine apology turned out to be one of the most underrated leadership tools he's used. Timestamps 01:31 From Wheelbarrow to Veg Boxes 10:08 Leading Through Constant Change 17:56 Growth Drivers and Father’s Approval 20:15 Leadership Transformation and Coaching 25:27 Employee Ownership in Action 32:09 Why Employee Ownership 41:27 Greenwash and Trust 48:20 Supermarket Bullying Stories Links Follow Guy Singh-Watson on LinkedIn Find out more about Riverford Organic Farmers and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 98. The financial mechanics of scaling a high-value business | Ross Crane | 28 Sep 2026 | 01:09:05 | |
What if you could see what your Rolex was actually worth before a dealer made an offer? In this episode, James is joined by Ross Crane to explain how that approach became a business, and what other founders can learn from it. Ross Crane co-founded Subdial to make buying and selling pre-owned luxury watches clearer and faster. Its market data helps customers understand watch prices in an industry where values can be difficult to pin down. They discuss how to recognise when an idea has reached a dead end, how to respond when a market drops, and why selling quickly can matter more than holding out for a bigger margin. Ross also shares a difficult decision from before Subdial: closing an earlier venture after six months and returning £220,000 of unused seed funding to investors. Timestamps 01:40 From Consulting to Startups 07:23 Pivoting Into Watches 10:16 Data Driven Pricing Model 21:43 How Subdial Works 32:54 Watches as Investable Hobby 49:32 Consignment Pricing Tiers Links Find out more about Subdial and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE | |||
| 97. How to Scale, Adapt, and Win in a Broken Market | Rio Caraeff | 21 Sep 2026 | 01:01:30 | |
Building and scaling a venture at the intersection of culture and technology requires deep industry insight, structural thinking, and relentless adaptability. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Rio Caraeff, Co-President of Musixmatch and former CEO of Vevo. Together they unpack a 30-year career spent shaping how music is distributed, monetized, and consumed globally. Rio shares candid stories from his early life, including how Dolly Parton taught him to read and how his father captured the legendary photo of Jimi Hendrix setting his guitar on fire, before detailing his pioneering moves in digital downloads with Steve Jobs and launching Vevo. The conversation delves into the core mechanics and future of the music economy. Rio explains why he views music as a "$10 business stuck in a $5 bag," breaks down the friction caused by fractured global copyrights, and demonstrates how Musixmatch uses AI tools like Sentinel and Music Lens to protect rights holders, while turning decades of lyric metadata into actionable market intelligence. Whether you are an entrepreneur looking to move legacy industries forward, a creator navigating the rise of generative AI, or a leader seeking to master complex ecosystems, this episode provides a realistic, forward-looking guide to strategy and innovation. Timestamps 04:36 Growing Up Around Rockstars 07:37 What Music Got Wrong 17:55 Musixmatch Explained 22:44 Administration and Getting Paid 25:24 AI as a Music Superpower 33:30 Creativity Versus AI 39:24 Lyrics as Durable Signal 48:09 Sync and Forecasting Uses 51:52 Optimism and Superpowers Links Follow Rio Caraeff on LinkedIn Find out more about Musixmatch and their services here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 96. The property market has changed. Here’s where the opportunity is now | David Powell | 14 Sep 2026 | 00:49:33 | |
Navigating a competitive industry requires adaptability, sharp execution, and a clear focus on long-term value. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with David Powell, CEO of Andrews Property Group, to trace his rise from a 19-year-old negotiator to leading a major property services firm. David shares candid lessons on managing older teams at age 21, rebuilding after his employer collapsed post-2008 crash, and overcoming the "year-off penalty" after taking a 12-month sabbatical. The conversation also explores broader economic and business realities. David breaks down why single-revenue models are giving way to multi-stream operations, how tax burdens directly suppress hiring and growth, and how emerging tech and AI can automate routine tasks to enhance human connection. Whether you are looking to advance your career, navigate market downturns, or lead a purpose-driven business, this episode provides practical insights into resilience and leadership. Timestamps 01:53 Falling Into Property 10:05 Crash and Starting Over 21:22 COVID Pivot to New Homes 28:24 New Models and Income Streams 34:40 Stamp Duty as a Market Brake 40:10 Taxes and Hiring Costs Links Follow David Powell on LinkedIn Find out more about Andrews Property Group and their services here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 95. A business growth masterclass: Funding, branding and sales strategy | Emma Jones | 07 Sep 2026 | 00:33:35 | |
Scaling a business demands a clear story, sales strategies, and a realistic approach to capital. In the third episode of our Summer Shorts series, James sits down with Enterprise Nation founder and UK Small Business Commissioner Emma Jones one final time, to dissect what it truly takes to transition from a running startup to a high-growth company. Emma outlines how to build a distinct brand without a massive budget, leveraging free PR opportunities like #JournoRequest, and why standing out comes down to knowing your exact story. The conversation dives into practical sales tactics such as turning your former employer into your very first client to using persistent, value-led updates to close major buyers. Finally, Emma demystifies the funding landscape. She breaks down the critical difference between debt and equity, explains why you should raise "opportunity funding" before you actually need it, and outlines exactly what investors expect in return. Whether you are looking to secure angel investment or simply expand your reach, this episode provides an actionable roadmap for your next stage of growth. This episode concludes our 3-part masterclass with Emma Jones. From spotting your initial business idea in episode one, to setting up your operational foundation in episode two, and scaling for growth in episode three, this series delivers a complete, practical toolkit for every stage of the entrepreneurial journey. Timestamps 06:21 Standing Out and Social Mission 10:09 Getting First Customers 13:04 Sales Follow Up and CRM 19:12 When to Raise Funding 20:22 Funding Sources and Angels 24:47 Debt vs Equity Decisions Links Find out more about Enterprise Nation and the support they offer here Find out more about the Small Business Commissioner here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 94. How to write a business plan and manage cash flow in year one | Emma Jones | 31 Aug 2026 | 00:28:18 | |
You can start a business for under £100, but building one that lasts requires navigating a minefield of practical, legal, and financial decisions. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Emma Jones to break down the mechanics of turning an idea into a fully operational company. Emma walks through the real-world choices every founder faces. From writing a lightweight five-page business plan to deciding whether to trade as a sole trader or a limited company. Emma shares why cash flow, not profit, is the ultimate reality test for a startup, how to protect your brand name without spending thousands, and why bootstrapping for as long as possible gives you complete commercial clarity. This short episode delivers a practical blueprint for managing your admin efficiently, choosing the right insurance, and ensuring your business stays cash-solvent from day one. Timestamps (Audio) 05:13 Sole Trader vs Limited 07:50 Registering and Accountants 10:08 Outsource and Hire Smart 13:35 Protect Your IP 17:13 Bootstrapping on a Budget 19:02 Funding Options 20:45 Costs, Cash and Getting Paid Links Find out more about Enterprise Nation and the support they offer here Find out more about the Small Business Commissioner here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 93. How to start a business: The step by step guide | Emma Jones | 24 Aug 2026 | 00:27:06 | |
How do you start a business? In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Emma Jones, serial entrepreneur, founder of Enterprise Nation, and the UK’s Small Business Commissioner. This is part one of a three-part masterclass on starting a business from scratch. Emma delivers practical, step-by-step advice on how to spot market gaps, validate ideas through smart market research, and build a focused niche. Emma shares insight on why testing a business as a side hustle gives you the space to refine your model, how to navigate early-stage co-founder decisions, and why sharing your idea early brings crucial feedback rather than stolen IP. This short episode gives a clear, realistic blueprint for knowing if your business idea is worth pursuing, leveraging free resources to test demand, and cultivating the daily resilience needed to keep going. Timestamps 02:48 Why Start a Business 09:03 Test and Hustle 11:03 Common Early Mistakes 16:54 Skills and Resilience 19:16 Co-Founders and Mentors Links Find out more about Enterprise Nation and the support they offer here Find out more about the Small Business Commissioner here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 92. When should you hire, raise or expand? The lessons from Forest Bikes | Caroline Seton | 17 Aug 2026 | 00:51:41 | |
When do you hire, when do you raise, and when is expansion actually the right move? In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Forest co-founder Caroline Seton to pull back the curtain on how a London startup scaled to over two million rides a month. From using smart pricing to make customers do the heavy lifting in logistics, to navigating 33 separate sets of local regulations, Caroline breaks down the raw operational tactics and tough strategic trade-offs required to build, survive, and scale an asset-heavy business. Caroline gives a clear blueprint for turning operational headaches into profit drivers as they explore protecting margins through relentless asset care, knowing exactly when to double down, or kill an idea that isn't working. Timestamps 01:38 Why Forest Started 10:32 Expanding Across London 15:09 Maintenance at Scale 21:38 Proof It Was Working 31:33 ULEZ and Space Reallocation 38:26 Making London Cycle Capital 44:50 Founder Advice and Tailwinds Links Follow Caroline Seton on LinkedIn Find out more about Forest Bikes and their services HERE Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 91. How to build your own talent pipeline | Lisa Bryer OBE & Charlie Kennard MBE | 10 Aug 2026 | 01:08:10 | |
If your industry is facing a talent shortage or failing to prepare the next generation of workers, the solution isn't to wait for traditional institutions to adapt, it's to build the training infrastructure yourself. In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Oscar-nominated film producer Lisa Bryer OBE, and Day One Trust CEO Charlie Kennard MBE. Together, they break down a practical masterclass in rapid business execution, industry-led talent pipelines, and building teams that deliver under high-stakes pressure. Lisa shares how turning a 24-hour corporate bankruptcy into the birth of Cowboy Films, proved that operational agility outweighs legacy credentials. Charlie details how partnering directly with major global enterprises created a sustainable, job-ready workforce model that prioritizes work-ethic discipline, and real-world execution over academic theory. This episode gives a clear blueprint for building talent pipelines in your own sector, turning unexpected crises into business momentum, and instilling non-negotiable professional behaviors across your workforce. Timestamps 02:46 Lisa Builds Cowboy Films 06:17 Charlie Starts The Schools 17:47 Who The School Is For 25:14 Behaviours For Career Success 36:07 Industry Led Curriculum 38:59 Alumni Success Stories 56:26 Advice For Creatives Links Follow Charlie Kennard MBE on LinkedIn Find out more about London Screen Academy and their work Find out more about Comby Films and their work Find out more about Day One Trust and their work Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 90. The lowest-risk way to scale a start-up | Jake Wilmot-Sitwell | 03 Aug 2026 | 01:04:15 | |
Are you exhausting resources trying to build every system from scratch? You could achieve faster, safer, scale by taking a proven playbook. And executing it better than anyone else. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jake Wilmot-Sitwell, co-founder and COO of Sandbox VR UK. Jake shares how he transitioned from venture capital to entrepreneurship, taking on £10M in capital to scale full-body, immersive VR experiences across the UK and Ireland. Jake breaks down the core mechanics of their expansion strategy, explaining how a master franchise model eliminated the initial tech-development risk. He details their shift from capital-intensive flagship locations to lean, plug-and-play concession hubs, while sharing actionable frameworks for optimizing yield per square foot, leveraging media partnerships like Netflix, and scaling a frontline workforce. Timestamps 01:56 Why VR and Entrepreneurship 09:57 Who Comes and Why It Works 22:40 High-End Tech Meets Hospitality 32:42 Hiring Young Teams 41:26 Fixes VAT Wages Rates 51:58 Future IP Partnerships Links Follow Jake Wilmot-Sitwell on LinkedIn Find out more about Sandbox VR and their experiences here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 89. The business decision you'll thank yourself for in 5 years | James Perry | 27 Jul 2026 | 00:59:57 | |
When your business hits an existential wall, are you willing to rethink your entire financial structure to protect your vision, or will you compromise the mission just to survive? Most founders believe scaling requires bowing to traditional venture capital and prioritizing short-term margins. COOK proved there is another way by surviving near-bankruptcy, funding its own expansion through an unexpected subsidiary, and scaling past £100 million while keeping absolute control over its mission. In this episode of All About Business, James Perry, co-founder of COOK and co-founder of B Corp UK joins as guest, and he pulls back the curtain on the messy, high-stakes reality of building a national consumer brand from scratch without burning out or selling out. They unpack the reality of operational risk, the hard lessons of founder resilience, and how building an inclusive hiring model through the RAW initiative turned a perceived workplace risk into one of their strongest operational assets. James shares the gritty mechanics behind COOK’s early years: how a loss-making enterprise was kept afloat by a cash-generating bakery, why he turned away standard venture capital, and how leveraging national media attention led to finding the patient, long-term private capital that saved the business. He breaks down how the 2008 financial crash tested their model and why a relentless focus on product integrity built a moat that traditional competitors couldn't cross. Timestamps 02:08 Cadbury Lessons 10:00 Family Bakery Origins 12:56 Founding Cook 28:48 B Corp Beginnings 37:10 Certifying and Building UK 41:05 RAW Talent Hiring Program 49:19 Systemic Capitalism Glitch Links Follow James Perry on LinkedIn Find out more COOK and their products here Find out more about B Lab UK and their work here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 88. How to build a disruptive product without outspending industry giants | Mark Rushmore | 20 Jul 2026 | 01:07:49 | |
Most consumer goods brands ask you to buy more - SURI does the opposite. They designed a sustainable, electric toothbrush made from plant-based materials that is fully recyclable. As a result they scaled to over £50 million worth of sales in just four years. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Mark Rushmore, co-founder and Chief Commercial Officer of Sustainable Rituals, SURI. The fast-growing personal care brand that’s disrupting a defended, multi-billion-pound market by proving that daily wellness routines don't have to come at the cost of the planet. Mark shares his journey from the corporate training ground of Procter & Gamble to navigating extreme burnout after his first agency exit. He explains the business mechanics behind SURI’s rapid scale, and why focusing on a "minimum lovable product" unlocked a viral wave of word-of-mouth growth. James and Mark explore the strategies behind scaling a highly productive 50-person team, using AI as an operational accelerant rather than a replacement, and the practical frameworks for making tough business decisions. They examine how to establish a values-led culture, why investing in founder relationships with business psychologists is critical to preventing scale-up failure, and what the next generation of consumer brands must do to win. This leaves us with a compelling question: when building a product for the long term, are you treating your business decisions like a temporary hat, a reversible haircut, or a permanent tattoo? Timestamps 04:19 Burnout and Life Reset 16:36 Origin Story of SURI 25:08 Pricing Strategy and Lovable Product 31:42 Competing with Giants and Expert Team 37:51 Hiring Values Framework 46:13 Brand Expansion Vision 51:55 Decision Making Lessons Links Follow Mark Rushmore on LinkedIn Find out more SURI and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 87. How to start and scale a charity: Supporting 7000 kids a week through football | Charlie Hyman | 13 Jul 2026 | 00:52:23 | |
Most charities are told to secure funding before they spend. Bloomsbury Football did the opposite — investing in fundraising before the money existed, and growing from four children to 7,000 a week as a result. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Charlie Hyman, founder and CEO of Bloomsbury Football. His fast-growing social enterprise harnesses the universal power of grassroots football to tackle major societal challenges for young people, providing thousands of disadvantaged youth with vital role models, mental health support, and a true sense of belonging. Charlie shares the 7 steps in starting, building and scaling a charity. He explains the business mechanics behind this scale: how diversifying income with brands like Mastercard and Adobe, and treating a charity like a high-growth private company unlocks true scale. James and Charlie explore the strategy behind taking Bloomsbury national and how Charlie built a proprietary AI tool to scrape Charity Commission data for fundraising intelligence. They examine how to close high-value deals, attract top-tier corporate talent with pure purpose, and what commercial businesses can learn from high-ambition social enterprise models. This leaves us with a compelling question: when building a company designed for impact, do your growth strategies reflect the actual size of the problem you are trying to solve? Timestamps 03:05 Origin story volunteering 11:47 Income streams and bids 15:53 Charities vs businesses 21:23 Scaling leadership and coaches 32:12 Opportunistic Expansion Plans 38:12 AI Boosting Charity Impact 44:59 Fundraising Skills for Youth Links Follow Charlie Hyman on LinkedIn Find out more Bloomsbury Football here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 86. Lab-grown diamonds were underestimated. Here's how they're disrupting luxury | Nathalie Morrison | 06 Jul 2026 | 00:43:22 | |
Most people underestimated lab-grown diamonds. Conventional wisdom says that luxury is about heritage, exclusivity and the power of a brand. So why are consumers embracing them so quickly? And what does that tell us about the future of luxury businesses and the shift in consumer values? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Nathalie Morrison, founder and CEO of Astrea London. Her high-end jewellery brand focuses on ethical luxury, using the top 1% tier of lab-grown diamonds and 100% recycled gold to offer flawless purity that gives consumers more carats and less weight on their conscience. Within just one year of launching, Astrea hit $1 million in sales, prompting Nathalie to leverage her banking network to raise £4 million at a £14 million valuation. The company has since attracted celebrity backing from Sarah Jessica Parker, who became both an investor and creative director after meeting Nathalie in New York. Together, James and Nathalie explore the rapid shifts in consumer behaviour and the strategy required to position a disruptive brand at the highest end of a competitive market. They discuss the unique marketing channel she created by opening luxury boutiques inside world-renowned hotels such as the Mandarin Oriental, and the realities of challenging a century-old industry monopoly. They also examine the changing values of the next generation of consumers, why diamonds are built for emotional enjoyment rather than financial investment, and the power of cold outreach—even when it leads to one of the world's most influential style icons becoming a business partner. Timestamps 02:07 Nathalie Finance Background 06:45 How Lab Diamonds Are Made 14:43 Diamond Pricing Myths 22:27 Celebrity Investor Partner 29:10 Supply Chain And Quality 36:25 Scaling Challenges And Hiring Links: Follow Nathalie Morrison on LinkedIn Find out more Astrea London and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 85. "We were £1.5M in debt": The turnaround strategy that could save your business | Zoe Paskin | 29 Jun 2026 | 00:51:54 | |
Financial crises can hit any business- especially in today's economy. Selling might feel like the only option. But is it? What should founders do when things look bleak? How do you rebuild momentum, and give your business the best possible chance of surviving and thriving? When one pair of siblings were running The End nightclub, they found themselves £1.5 million in debt and facing enormous pressure to sell. Instead, they chose a different path, and turned the business around. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Zoë Paskin, co-founder and managing director of Studio Paskin. They are the independent powerhouse behind legendary London destinations like The Palomar, The Barbary, and the Michelin-starred Evelyn's Table, celebrated for maintaining flawless standards in a brutal industry. Zoë shares the remarkable story of turning around a legendary 90s nightclub facing massive debt, stepping into leadership when no one expected her to, and the reality of selling a business at its peak. James and Zoë explore how to scale when the broader market is struggling, how to strip down operational expenses to rescue a business, and why the best career advice may be to simply : go wherever the biggest problems are. Links: Find out more Studio Paskin and their work here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 84. How to grow your business without losing control | David Palmer | 22 Jun 2026 | 00:59:51 | |
Scaling a business seems like the obvious goal. But what if growth without the right strategy leads to losing control? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with David Palmer, founder of Life of Fish, the modern London fishmonger that started as a lockdown pop-up outside a Peckham cafe, and has now grown into a multi-site retail and wholesale business built on sustainability, craft, and genuine customer service. Together James and David explore the harder lessons of growth: why expanding too fast almost broke the business, how to know when to consolidate rather than chase new opportunities, and what it means to build something that runs on profit rather than debt. David shares what he learned starting work at Billingsgate Market at the age of 14 with no qualifications and no plan. Climbing into bins at 2am and learning to fillet fish under pressure, allowed David to slowly piecing together a skillset he didn't realise he was building. The lesson he took from those years is simple: nothing you learn is wasted, and starting from the bottom teaches you things no shortcut ever could. They also discuss what it really takes to build a product business in a traditional industry that nobody had modernised. Timestamps 2:11 Leaving school at 11 12:56 The entrepreneurial pivot question 15:14 The breakthrough moment 17:26 The gap in the market 19:33 COVID lockdown launch 21:15 70 people queue 38:55 Lesson on over expansion 39:57 Turning down free rent 43:39 Hiring philosophy Links Follow David Palmer on LinkedIn Find out more Life of Fish and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 83. Are you selling too early? The succession model most founders have never heard of | Victoria Stapleton | 15 Jun 2026 | 00:58:16 | |
Thirty years of building a business without a board, without investors, and without ever wanting to sell, and it just keeps growing, there’s something to learn from that. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Victoria Stapleton, founder of Brora, the British luxury cashmere and clothing brand. Victoria has built Brora over 30 years from a single supplier and a home phone number into a business with shops across the UK, a store on Madison Avenue, and a fiercely loyal customer base. Victoria shares what she learned from building slowly and deliberately, and why organic growth gave her control, quality, and a life outside work. She also gives insight about why every founder considering outside investment should think carefully about what they are actually giving if they take it. Together they explore what it really takes to run a product business built on craft and quality: how to manage suppliers, why the shop experience matters more than ever, and what you actually learn about your business by walking the warehouse floor every morning. Victoria's tells is about who she transitioned Brora into an Employee Ownership Trust, one of the most underused business succession models in the UK, and how it works. Timestamps 11:25 First Shop and Doing It All 18:49 Hiring and Building a Loyal Team 20:52 Organic Growth and Staying Independent 30:21 In Store Styling Magic 38:21 Bonuses Profit And Legacy 47:05 Store Locations And New York 54:19 Glasgow Store Failure Lessons 56:14 Final Questions And Farewell Links Find out more Brora and their products here Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 82. Start now. The sign your business idea is ready to build | Sahar Hashemi OBE | 08 Jun 2026 | 00:56:13 | |
Most people think successful entrepreneurs spot brilliant ideas. Sahar Hashemi believes the opposite. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Sahar Hashemi, entrepreneur, author, and founder of Buy Women Built. They talk about Sahar’s journey over three decades building businesses, backing herself, and why entrepreneurship is far simpler than most people make it. Sahar shares the hard lessons from scaling Coffee Republic to 110 stores and what happened when they handed the business to the professionals. What she learned about founders staying close to their customers, why bureaucracy is the silent killer of entrepreneurial culture, and why the moment you lose sight of who you are serving, is the moment a business starts to decline. Together they explore what a startup mindset actually looks like in practice, how to know when a growing business is quietly losing its edge, and why the single most important thing any leader can do is keep their people connected to the customer. Sahar also makes the case that something done badly is better than if it’s not done at all, and that the best thing any aspiring entrepreneur can do is start somewhere, however small. Timestamps 3:13 Discovering New York-style coffee 9:30 The decision to leave law 12:19 First Coffee Republic 16:54 Going public 26:39 The tweet that sparked Buy Women Built 35:05 The Rose Review of Entrepreneurship 40:43 The startup mindset 51:17 No plan, just purpose Links Follow Sahar Hashemi on LinkedIn Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 81. How Gousto is taking on the ultra-processed food industry | Timo Boldt | 01 Jun 2026 | 00:53:40 | |
60% of the UK diet is ultra-processed. And the food industry is manufacturing your addiction. So why is this public health crisis continuing in plain sight, and what it would actually take to change it? Two things are clear. Britain's food system is more broken than most people realise. And Gousto is far more interesting a business than its recipe boxes suggest. In today’s episode, James speaks with Timo Boldt, founder and CEO of Gousto, about building one of the UK's most ambitious food businesses from scratch and why, 14 years and 80 million meals later, he's only just getting started. Timo shares how he left a career in investment banking to start again. With no money, no network, no customers, he shares what that journey has taught him about fundraising without connections, growing with your customers and building a business around a problem genuinely worth solving. They also discuss how Gousto has used AI intelligently from the beginning, not as a replacement for people, but as a tool that makes the whole operation sharper; from cutting food waste and optimising factory logistics to building fully personalised menus that 80% of customers now rely on. Timestamps: 01:37 What Gousto Does 06:23 From Banking to Entrepreneurship 13:24 Scrappy Startup and First Orders 25:35 Affordability Taxes and Transparency 31:16 Healthy Without Preaching 34:33 Factories And Delivery Network 42:12 China Trip AI And Robotics Links Find out more about Gousto and their products Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 80. How a £5,000 workshop became a global luxury brand | Tom Faulkner | 25 May 2026 | 01:08:43 | |
What does it take to build a luxury brand by accident and keep it thriving for 30 years without ever taking outside investment? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Tom Faulkner, award-winning British furniture designer and founder of Tom Faulkner Limited. They talk about the unlikely journey from redundancy at a record label to running one of the UK's most distinctive handcrafted furniture brands, with showrooms in London and New York, and a workshop in Swindon that has been making things by hand since 1996. Tom shares the story of how a side hustle in hand-painted tabletops became a serious business the moment he discovered what you could do with metal. He talks about buying a Swindon fabrication workshop for £5,000, inheriting two employees, slowly building a loyal team and a global client base. All through organic growth, word of mouth, and relationships with interior designers. They explore what it really means to build a premium, handcrafted brand in the modern world: the growing appetite among wealthy clients to understand how things are made, why British manufacturing remains a genuine selling point in the American market, and how Tom navigated the early months of US tariffs with a decision that cost him margin but protected his customer relationships. Together they also discuss the challenge of succession and legacy for founder-led businesses, why Tom has never chased scale for its own sake, and what he hopes to do next. Timestamps 4:56 From Chrysalis Records to Hand-Painted Furniture 8:40 Buying the Swindon Workshop (The £5,000 Decision) 12:56 The Pimlico Road Showroom & London's Design Cluster 15:53 Expanding to New York 20:24 Staying Artisan: Organic Growth & British Manufacturing 25:20 Signature Pieces: Capricorn & the Collections 36:13 Navigating Business Challenges & US Tariffs 43:01 Future Plans: Collaborations, Sculpture & What's Next 57:04 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs Follow Tom Faulkner on LinkedIn Find out more about Tom Faulkner LTD and their products HERE Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 79. What businesses should learn from museums about innovation | Elizabeth McKay | 18 May 2026 | 00:58:51 | |
How can a major museum be run with the same entrepreneurial mindset as a high-growth business? In today's episode, James Reed speaks with Elizabeth McKay, Director and CEO of the London Transport Museum. While many perceive museums as static archives, Elizabeth explains how she applies commercial strategy to ensure one of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks remains financially sustainable and relevant in a modern economy. Elizabeth shares insights from her unconventional career journey and explains why the museum identifies as the best in the world for urban transport. They explore the evolution of work through the lens of London’s history, from the original "chairmen" who carried sedan chairs to the "navvies" who hand-dug the first underground network. Together they discuss the balance between preserving heritage and driving innovation, including the story of Harry Beck’s revolutionary Tube map and how it was initially rejected for being too radical. Elizabeth also outlines the realities of leading a cultural institution that functions as both a charity and a successful commercial entity. Timestamps 01:48 Transport history highlights 09:50 Young entrepreneurs message 20:04 Design DNA of TFL 24:26 Running the museum business 33:27 Leading through uncertainty 40:21 Funding model explained 45:10 Youth skills pipeline Follow Elizabeth McCay on LinkedIn: Find out more about TFL Museum and their exhibitions here: Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 78. The crisis facing UK retail and food businesses | Sarah Bradbury | 11 May 2026 | 00:48:00 | |
Why are millions of jobs going unfilled in one of the UK’s biggest industries, while so many young people are struggling to find work? In this episode of all about business, James Reed speaks with Sarah Bradbury, CEO of the Institute of Grocery Distribution, about the future of the UK food industry, the growing challenge of attracting young talent, and why the sector may offer far more opportunities than people realise. Sarah shares insights from her 25-year career across major retailers, before stepping into one of the most influential leadership roles in the UK food sector. She explains how IGD works across the entire food system and how they help competitors collaborate on the biggest long-term challenges facing the industry. They explore the pressures reshaping food and retail, including changing consumer habits, climate change, AI, automation, workforce shortages, and the potential impact of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, on the future of food consumption. Together they also discuss leadership, collaboration between rival businesses, and why the UK food industry remains one of the country’s most important, and underestimated, economic forces. Timestamps 02:00 What IGD does 08:43 Retail tech and AI trends 12:27 UK food system challenges 18:36 Land use and solar farms 23:47 Hidden food careers 31:29 Youth unemployment urgency 43:27 Closing reflections and CEO Forum Follow Sarah Bradbury on LinkedIn Find out more about IGD and their impact HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 77. What it’s really like running a funeral directors business | Damian Melville | 04 May 2026 | 01:09:23 | |
Running a business is hard, but what is it like when your work sits at the centre of people’s most emotional moments? In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Damian Melville, Managing Director of Melville & Daughter Funeral Directors. Together they explore leadership in one of the most emotionally demanding industries there is. Damian shares his journey into the family business, reflecting on the responsibilities that come when helping people in their most vulnerable time, and how that shapes both leadership-style and company-culture. He shares what balancing tradition with modernisation means, the realities of running a business where empathy is as important as efficiency, and the discipline required to maintain high standards in sensitive circumstances. The conversation explores what it means to lead with care while still making clear commercial decisions, how to build trust within communities, and why consistency and professionalism matter more than ever, in a service built on reputation. Damian also discusses the challenges of succession in a family-run business and the importance of supporting both clients and staff through emotionally complex work. A thoughtful, grounded conversation about leadership, responsibility, and building a business where purpose and performance have to coexist every step of the way. Timestamps 01:04 Finding a niche market 06:36 Going solo challenges 12:50 Winning trust locally 23:18 COVID shock to the system 36:27 Hiring costs and NI 43:25 A Funeral director day 01:00:26 Memorial innovations and burials Follow Damian Melville on LinkedIn Find out more about Melville & Daughters Funeral Directors here All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 76. How to get a pay rise: Salary negotiation that works | Connor Scully | 27 Apr 2026 | 00:27:42 | |
Is an awkward conversation the only thing standing between you and the salary you deserve? In this episode of all about business, Connor Scully, Senior Executive Consultant at Reed Specialist Recruitment, sits down with James to discuss how professionals can effectively secure a pay rise in their current role. Connor shares practical advice on how to move beyond the discomfort of pay discussions by focusing on preparation, timing, and proving your worth. The conversation explores how to assess whether you are truly due a salary increase, emphasizing the need to align your output with business goals and quantify your impact through measurable KPIs. Connor explains why being proactive, taking on extra responsibilities during company hardships, or "saying yes" to complex projects, is key to becoming an indispensable asset. Whether you feel underpaid or are looking to take the next step in your career, this episode offers a step-by-step guide to navigating pay conversations with confidence and a growth mindset Timestamps 02:00 Are You Due More 04:42 Prep And Timing Mistakes 09:38 When To Job Hunt 12:19 Ask In Person 15:36 Say Yes More Often 20:22 Employer Perspective on Pay Requests Find out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 75. How to calculate what you're worth in the job market | Leanne Appleton | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:28:56 | |
How do you know if you’re being offered what you’re worth? In this episode of all about business, Leanne Appleton, recruitment expert at Reed, speaks with James about how professionals can increase their earning potential and achieve a higher salary. Leanne shares practical insights into what really drives salary growth, from understanding your market value to building in-demand skills and positioning yourself effectively in the job market. She explains why working harder isn’t always enough, and how being more strategic about your career decisions can significantly impact your long-term earnings. The conversation explores how to approach salary negotiations with confidence, including when to ask for a pay rise, how to benchmark your worth, and why timing plays a critical role. Leanne also highlights the importance of demonstrating impact through measurable results, rather than relying on tenure or job titles alone. Timestamps 02:10 Know Your Worth 04:15 Recruiter Advantage 05:41 Benchmark Beyond Salary 08:36 Reading Job Ad Salaries 11:14 Negotiation Prep 14:20 Avoid Over Underselling 17:37 Benefits That Matter 19:36 Perks Employers Can Add 21:52 Probation Pay Reviews 24:39 Counteroffers Warning Find out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 74. How to grow a business fast and exit successfully | Andrew Hulbert | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:59:34 | |
How do you grow an idea into a multi-million pound business before the age of 40? In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Andrew Hulbert, entrepreneur and founder of Pareto Facilities Management, a company he built from his bedroom into a £50 million business before successfully exiting in his thirties. Andrew shares the journey from a difficult start in Oxford and an unconventional path into business, to scaling rapidly in a competitive industry and navigating the realities of high-growth entrepreneurship. He reflects on the mindset required to build something from nothing, the importance of winning (and keeping) customers, and why consistency and execution matter more than ideas. The conversation explores what it really takes to scale a business, from landing pivotal contracts that accelerate growth, to building a leadership team strong enough to step back from. Andrew also speaks candidly about the personal cost of success with long hours, burnout, and the moment he realised the business he built was no longer sustainable for the life he wanted. Now focused on family, investing, and sustainability, Andrew offers a different perspective on success that goes beyond financial outcomes. This is a grounded and honest conversation about entrepreneurship, growth, and what success really looks like once you’ve achieved it. Timestamps 02:17 Council estate roots 09:20 Knife lesson turning point 22:06 Bedroom startup launch 34:14 Why sell the business 42:57 Health reset and purpose 46:50 Sales tricks that work 54:47 Advice for entrepreneurs Follow Andrew Hulbert on LinkedIn Find out more about Pareto Facilities All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 73. No cows here: Could your pint become your next leather wallet? | TJ Mitchell | 06 Apr 2026 | 00:46:59 | |
Could the answer to a more sustainable handbag or wallet lie at the bottom of your pint glass? In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Dr. Edward "TJ" Mitchell, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Arda Biomaterials, a London-based startup redefining the future of leather. Using cutting-edge technology, Arda transforms waste grain from brewers and distillers into sustainable, animal-, and plastic-free leather alternatives that are poised to disrupt the fashion and materials industries. TJ shares his remarkable journey from a PhD in radioactive waste storage to the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led to founding Arda Biomaterials, meeting his co-founder, and the bold decision to pivot from food-based protein products to sustainable materials. TJ also talks about the challenges of scaling a deep tech startup, from overcoming scientific and engineering hurdles, to building a team, and navigating the complexities of fundraising. TJ reflects on the importance of networking and immersing yourself in the right communities, the art of storytelling as an entrepreneur, and why asking for advice often leads to unexpected opportunities. Timestamps 02:39 From PhD research to entrepreneurship 06:22 Discovering the value of waste grain 12:15 Pivoting from food-based protein to leather alternatives 14:19 Using chemistry to mimic collagen for sustainable leather 20:33 The science behind transforming waste into leather-like materials 21:20 Why communication and storytelling are key for entrepreneurs 24:47 Advice for scientists: finding co-founders and startup programs 35:00 The future of plastic-free, animal-free materials in fashion 39:49 Arda Biomaterials’ vision as a waste transformation company 42:13 Scaling globally and creating local production facilities Follow TJ Mitchell on LinkedIn Find out more about Arda Biomaterials here All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 72. How to build a successful brand in a competitive market | Steve Perez | 30 Mar 2026 | 00:59:04 | |
How do you turn a single idea into a global brand and keep winning in an industry where most products fade away? In this episode of all about business, James sits down with Steve Perez, founder of Global Brands, to unpack the reality behind building one of the UK’s most successful drinks businesses from scratch. Steve shares how he identified a gap in the market early on, and backed his instincts to create products that would resonate with a new generation of consumers, most notably the breakout success of VK. But Steve’s story isn’t just about spotting an opportunity, it’s about the discipline required to execute, the risks that come with backing your own judgement, and the resilience needed to navigate inevitable setbacks along the way. The conversation goes deeper into what actually drives success in a highly competitive, fast-moving industry. Steve explains why understanding your customer better than anyone else is a non-negotiable, how to stay relevant as trends shift, and how many businesses fail not because of bad ideas, but because of poor execution. He also reflects on leadership as a business scale. From making tough commercial decisions under pressure, to building a team you can trust, and knowing when to adapt, versus when to stay the course. This is a grounded, experience-led conversation about entrepreneurship without the fluff that covers risk, resilience, execution, and what it really takes to build something that lasts. Timestamps 02:56 From pub manager to van hustle 08:43 Business bust and rock bottom 14:33 Inventing VK 25:16 Keep your equity keep control 38:27 Building a hotel empire 43:36 High Court tax challenge 57:34 Multi-generational mindset Follow Steve Perez on LinkedIn Find out more Global Brands and VK All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 71. The interview method that actually works in 2026 | Will Moore | 23 Mar 2026 | 00:25:24 | |
Why do some candidates succeed in interviews while others fail, even with the same experience? In this episode of all about business, James speaks with Will Moore, Senior Area Manager at Reed Specialist Recruitment, about how to effectively prepare for a job interview. With more than a decade of experience in recruitment, Will shares practical advice on how candidates can approach interviews with confidence and structure. He explains the four key steps to interview preparation, from researching the company and reviewing the job description, to understanding the people you’ll be meeting, and preparing examples from your own experience. The conversation also explores how candidates can structure answers clearly and communicate their achievements with confidence. Will highlights why using facts and measurable results is far more effective than exaggeration, and how practising answers out loud can dramatically improve performance on the day. They also discuss some of the most common mistakes candidates make; asking vague questions that reveal a lack of research, failing to prepare real examples of past work, and overlooking the importance of preparation for virtual interviews, where technology, environment, and presentation still matter. Whether you're preparing for your first interview, or your next career move, this episode offers practical insights to help you present yourself clearly, confidently, and authentically. Timestamps 01:12 Four step interview prep 06:26 Nailing tell me about you 08:59 STAR method 14:41 Handling weaknesses questions 19:16 Practice and common mistakes Find out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 70. The 7 Second CV: What recruiters wish everyone knew | Libby White | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:27:35 | |
What is the biggest mistake people make when writing a CV? And how can yours land you an interview in 7 seconds? In this episode of All About Business, James is joined by Libby White, Senior Consultant at Reed specialising in marketing, communications, PR and design recruitment. While some people claim the CV is becoming outdated, Libby explains why it remains a critical tool for getting interviews and how small changes can dramatically improve your chances of standing out. Drawing on her experience screening CVs every day, Libby shares practical advice on how candidates can present their experience more effectively, highlight measurable achievements, and tailor their CV for different roles. From structuring your professional summary to avoiding common mistakes (including over-reliance on AI-generated CVs), this episode is packed with actionable tips for job seekers at every stage of their career. Find out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 69. The career mistake smart people keep making (and what actually matters) | Sophie Clarke | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:25:11 | |
What’s the difference between chasing the next job and building a long-term career? In this episode of All About Business Shorts, James Reed speaks with Sophie Clarke, recruitment expert at Reed, about how professionals can think more strategically about their careers. Sophie explains why focusing only on job titles or salary increases can sometimes distract from long-term career growth. Instead, she argues that understanding your strengths, motivations, and the skills you want to develop is key to making smarter career decisions. The conversation explores how building a strong personal reputation — through reliability, communication, and trust — can open doors throughout your career. Sophie also shares why asking better questions when considering new opportunities, and thinking beyond the immediate job move, can help professionals make decisions that compound over time. This is a practical discussion about career strategy, personal brand, and making job moves that support long-term professional growth. Timestamps 01:37 Progression not job hopping 04:44 CV turnoffs and AI 08:35 Numbers beat responsibilities 13:15 Formatting and what to remove 17:29 Hobbies out systems in 21:44 Junior CVs and early experience Find out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 68. Ex Gordon Ramsay Group CEO reveals his turnaround playbook | Stuart Gillies | 02 Mar 2026 | 01:03:17 | |
How do you build world-class standards in hospitality and then lead at the highest level of business? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Stuart Gillies, chef, restaurateur, and former CEO of the Gordon Ramsay Group, about building excellence in hospitality and leading through growth, crisis, and reinvention. Stuart shares his journey from starting out in kitchens through international experience in Sweden, Italy, and New York, to becoming a senior leader at the Gordon Ramsay Group. He reflects on the discipline, attention to detail, and resilience he developed early in his career, and how those lessons shaped his transition from chef to CEO during one of the toughest periods in hospitality. The conversation explores leadership under pressure, making hard commercial decisions, closing and opening businesses, and why devolving responsibility builds stronger teams. Stuart also shares what it’s really like to run a family hospitality business with his wife Cecilia, navigating COVID as founders, and why consistency, standards, and purpose matter more than ever in building a business that lasts. A grounded conversation about leadership, craftsmanship, and building high-performance teams in one of the toughest industries in business. Timestamps 00:00 Start: Stuart Gillies Former CEO Gordon Ramsay Group & Restaurateur 04:30 Early Career Journey: YTS Scheme to International Kitchen Experience Sweden Italy 15:43 New York Daniel Restaurant: Career Catalyst Working With Top French Chefs 22:17 CEO Transition: Leading Gordon Ramsay Group Business Strategy & Restaurant Decisions 36:43 COVID Challenge: Launching Bank House Chislehurst & Number Eight Sevenoaks 38:30 Family Business Success: Working With Wife Cecilia & Teaching Kids Work Ethic 50:00 Couple Business Partnership Advice: Building Strong Marriage Before Business Venture 59:00 Leadership Lessons: Comfort Zone Growth Mindset & Future Hospitality Vision Follow Stuart Gillies on LinkedIn: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 67. How to evolve your offering to grow a service-based business | Gregory Nice + Jack Stanton | 23 Feb 2026 | 01:06:53 | |
How do you build a creative agency that cuts through in a crowded, fast-changing media landscape? In this episode of All About Business, James talks with Gregory Nice and Jack Stanton, co-founders of NICE Productions. Together they discuss growing a modern creative agency in the age of social-first content, multi-channel marketing, and AI disruption. Gregory and Jack share how they built NICE Productions from weekend side projects into a London-based creative agency producing campaigns across TV, social, radio, cinema, and out-of-home. They reflect on starting young, balancing creativity with commercial reality, and how long-term client relationships helped them survive industry shocks, from COVID, to strikes, and shifting media budgets. The conversation explores how creative agencies can stand out in a saturated market, why multi-channel campaigns now matter more than single-format ads, and how low-budget, high-impact content can outperform expensive campaigns when it connects culturally. They also discuss the real impact of AI on creative work, why human creativity still matters, and how young people can break into the industry with fewer barriers than ever. This is a candid conversation about building a creative business, staying relevant in a disrupted industry, and creating work that cuts through in a noisy world. Timestamps 02:42 Launching Nice Productions 08:12 Rebrand to ‘Nice’ 18:44 Standing out in a crowded market 22:05 AI disruption in content 37:53 Why big ideas cost big money 46:43 Turning virality into new business 57:34 Landing big clients 01:02:38 How they generate ideas Follow Gregory Nice on LinkedIn Follow Jack Stanton on LinkedIn Find out more NICE Productions here All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 66. From miniskirts to stem cell therapy: How a fashion leader is changing heart failure treatment | Jenifer Rosenberg OBE | 16 Feb 2026 | 00:54:22 | |
How do you turn a bold idea into a national institution that changes lives? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jenifer Rosenberg OBE, entrepreneur in fashion and social impact leader, about building purpose-driven organisations that create lasting change. Jenifer shares her journey from spotting a gap in support for families facing serious illness, to co-founding Heart Cells Foundation and growing it from a kitchen-table startup into a nationally recognised charity. She reflects on navigating funding challenges, building credibility with clinicians and policymakers, and leading through the emotional realities of mission-led work. The conversation explores scaling a purpose-driven organisation sustainably, balancing commercial discipline with social impact, and the importance of governance, partnerships, and long-term strategy. Jenifer also shares lessons from stepping back from founder leadership, earning an OBE, and staying resilient while driving systemic change. A thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship with purpose, leading with conviction, and building something that truly lasts. Timestamps 02:18 From post room to senior role 08:07 Quality and innovation with Marks & Spencer 16:28 Branching out into fashion 26:40 The power of innovation 30:23 A personal journey with heart failure 35:24 Founding the Heart Cells Foundation 48:37 Maintaining energy and health Links Follow Jenifer Rosenberg OBE on LinkedIn: Find out more the Heart Cells Foundation here: Be part of the million job giveaway HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 65. From Dragon’s Den to Startup Success | Jinesh Vohra | 09 Feb 2026 | 00:57:58 | |
What if becoming mortgage-free wasn’t about earning more money, but about using what you already spend more intelligently? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jinesh Vora, Founder and CEO of Sprive, the UK fintech app helping homeowners pay off their mortgages faster without changing their lifestyle. Jinesh shares his journey from a 14-year career at Goldman Sachs to fintech founder, shaped by a three-generation family legacy of entrepreneurship. He reflects on leaving a high-paying corporate role, bootstrapping a startup through the pandemic, and building trust with banks and lenders in a highly regulated industry. The conversation explores scaling a fintech responsibly, from angel and venture funding to securing a major TV-for-equity deal with Channel 4. Jinesh also shares candid lessons from pitching on Dragons’ Den, alongside insights on leadership, resilience, AI, and avoiding growth at all costs. This is a practical conversation about financial freedom, fintech innovation, and building a purpose-led business that helps people take control of their money. Timestamps 01:49 The birth of Sprive: A mortgage app revolution 11:10 Jinesh's entrepreneurial journey and family legacy 14:39 The Goldman Sachs experience 24:01 Navigating the pandemic and launching Sprive 32:09 Networking and angel investors 34:11 Dragon's Den experience 41:15 Hiring strategies and team building 48:49 Future vision and personal goals Follow Jinesh Vohra on LinkedIn Find out more about Sprive App here All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 64. How to convert visibility into sales and long-term growth | Penelope Chilvers | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:56:27 | |
How do you build a creative business from scratch and ensure it steadily grows without compromising on quality, craft, or values? In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Penelope Chilvers, English footwear designer and founder of the eponymous luxury brand, and they talk about building a resilient business rooted in craftsmanship, customer closeness, and long-term thinking. Penelope shares her unconventional journey from training as a painter to launching a footwear business in London as a single parent. She reflects on learning her trade from the ground up, building a brand without formal business training, and why necessity — not strategy — drove her early entrepreneurial decisions. Penelope talks about the importance of craftsmanship, materials, long-term supplier relationships, and how staying close to customers has shaped everything from design to retail strategy. James and Penelope discuss growth, from opening stores and expanding internationally, to raising investment and introducing clothing alongside footwear. Penelope shares why steady, organic growth has served her better than chasing trends, how slow fashion has become a competitive advantage, and why durability, purpose, and trust now matter more than ever. This is a thoughtful conversation about learning your craft, respecting the people who help you build, and creating a business designed to last. Timestamps: 02:59 From painter to designer 07:59 The first big orders 15:00 Sustaining quality and craftsmanship 22:52 Family and business dynamics 29:50 Expanding into the American market 35:52 Men's range and iconic products 47:58 Slow fashion and ethical production Follow James Reed on LinkedIn: Follow Penelope Chilvers on LinkedIn: Find out more about Penelope Chilvers store here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 63. The future of PR and business in an AI world | Francesca Gamble | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:06:12 | |
How do you create a modern PR strategy that builds brand relevance and marketing-led businesses able to thrive through cultural and technological change? In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Francesca Gamble, founder of GTN Consultancy, to explore the future of PR, marketing, and business in an AI-driven world. With a career spanning global agencies, luxury fashion brands, and major cultural moments — including Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, and the London 2012 Olympics — Francesca shares her journey from agency leadership to launching her own independent consultancy. She explains what it really takes to build a modern PR and marketing business without hype, awards, or ego, and why so many agencies fail by prioritising image over impact. The conversation dives deep into brand partnerships, celebrity collaborations, and equity-based deals as powerful growth strategies for challenger brands. Francesca breaks down why great products still fail without strong marketing, how cultural relevance directly drives sales, and why results matter far more than industry accolades. Looking ahead, Francesca offers a bold and timely perspective on the future of PR and advertising in the age of AI. As automation accelerates across marketing, media, and communications, she argues that being human, authentic, and culturally aware will become the ultimate competitive advantage. A no-nonsense conversation about entrepreneurship, independence, brand relevance, and building a business that lasts in a rapidly changing world. Timestamps: 00:00 Intro 04:38 Starting a PR business 10:08 The role of PR in modern marketing 17:54 Celebrity partnerships and brand collaborations 32:28 The importance of flexibility and client relationships 42:24 The reality of entrepreneurship 51:03 Successful celebrity brand partnerships 58:00 The future of PR and female founders Follow James Reed on LinkedIn: Follow Franscesa Gamble on LinkedIn: Find out more about GTN Consultancy here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 62. How to stack revenue: The 3 levers that optimise growth of any local food business | Pete Russell | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:56:31 | |
What if the future of food isn’t bigger, faster, and more centralised, but local, decentralised, and community-powered? In this episode of the All About Business podcast, James is joined by Pete Russell, Founder of Ooooby and Co-Founder of DECENT, to explore how technology, ethical entrepreneurship, and optimism can transform the global food system from the ground up. Pete shares his journey from running a highly profitable industrial food business to building one of the UK’s leading local food platforms, connecting independent farmers and producers directly with their communities. The conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, scaling purpose-led businesses, and the challenges of building alternatives to industrial food supply chains. A key theme of the episode is steward ownership, a business model that separates profit from control. Pete explains how steward ownership protects mission, prevents mission drift, and ensures long-term impact over short-term returns, offering a compelling alternative to traditional shareholder capitalism. James and Pete also explore the future of commerce and AI, with Pete presenting a bold vision of a shift from the attention economy to the intention economy. As artificial intelligence reshapes how we discover and buy products, Pete argues that traditional marketing and advertising may become obsolete, replaced by systems that prioritise values, trust, and genuine human needs. Timestamps 00:00 Intro 02:03 Meet Pete Russell: The Visionary Behind Oooby’s Food Revolution 03:06 What Is Oooby? Decentralizing the Global Food Supply Chain 06:25 Farm-to-Table Logistics: How Oooby Empowers Local Farmers 10:12 The 1.9% Disruptor: Why Low-Margin Tech is Saving Small Farms 14:45 Debunking the Myth: Why Local Food Costs Less Than Supermarkets 19:30 The Awareness Gap: Why Traditional Food Systems Still Dominate 27:05 17 Years of Resilience: Pivoting Through Near-Death Business Challenges 33:40 The Software Pivot: Solving the Logistics Nightmare of Local Food 40:00 Future of Food: AI, Agentic Commerce, and Decentralized Platforms 56:15 What wakes you up on a Monday? Follow Pete Russell on Linkedin Find out more about Oooooby and how to sell local food online All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 61. The email that saved HomeServe and sparked a £4bn business | Sir Richard Harpin | 12 Jan 2026 | 01:10:33 | |
Building a billion-pound business is one thing, but what does it take to scale globally, exit successfully, and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Sir Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe, the home emergency repairs and improvements launched in 1993. Sir Richard talks about his journey from early failures to growing a FTSE 100 multinational across the UK, France, Spain, the US, Canada, and Japan that sold for £4.1 billion in 2022. Sir Richard shares how a plumbing insurance model sparked the subscription-based affinity partnerships, the challenges of international expansion, and why copying successful ideas while focusing on execution was key to cracking markets and achieving organic growth. Together they discuss Sir Richard’s post-exit ventures including Growth Partner, Business Leader magazine, and his bestselling book "How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps". The conversation also explores Sir Richard's passion for inspiring breakthroughs, the role of optimism in navigating setbacks, and why doubling the UK's large companies through community-driven support, matters more than ever in a challenging economic landscape. Timestamps 01:00 The early struggles and pivots 06:42 The breakthrough: Plumbing insurance model 17:40 The power of copying and mentorship 28:53 Challenges and opportunities for mid-size businesses 37:55 Introducing growth partner: investment in retail 48:10 The not-to-do list for entrepreneurs 01:02:29 Recruitment: Hiring your replacement Follow Sir Richard Harpin on Linkedin Buy Sir Richard’s book “How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps” All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 60. Gold medal to boardroom: The one olympic method I applied that turned my workforce elite | Adrian Moorhouse MBE | 05 Jan 2026 | 01:00:39 | |
Winning Olympic gold is one of the highest achievements in sport, but what are the skills that you can apply to build an elite team in your business? In this episode of All About Business, James meets Adrian Moorhouse MBE, three-time Olympian and gold medalist. Adrian talks about his journey from the pool to the boardroom, exploring big hairy audacious goals (BHAGs), the power of curiosity, and heart-driven leadership in challenging times, and why mindset, meaning, and community matter more than ever for sustained success in sport and business. Adrian discusses his entrepreneurial transition, launching Lane Four in 1995, growing it through high-performance culture and client impact, and navigating its sale to EY in 2021, while confronting common entrepreneur pitfalls. He also shares how escaping school bullying through swimming ignited his drive and why choices over sacrifices defined his path. Timestamps 01:20 Transition to business 04:44 Challenges and learnings 07:58 Creating a winning team 12:41 Resilience and focus techniques 17:16 From athlete to entrepreneur 32:30 Navigating the 2008 financial crisis 36:46 Mentoring and leadership insights 48:53 The intersection of sports and business 57:09 The importance of curiosity in leadership Follow Adrian Moorhouse on Linkedin Find out more about The Tom Dean Swim School All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 59. From rejection to £100m deals: The Netflix pitch that changed British TV | Andy Harries OBE | 29 Dec 2025 | 01:14:16 | |
Building a career in television is one thing, but what does it really take to produce global hits like The Crown and Outlander while building and scaling a production empire? In this episode of 'All About Business,' James speaks with Andy Harries, co-founder and CEO of Left Bank Pictures. Together they discuss Andy's 50-year journey from a promotion scriptwriter at Granada Television, to launching his own company, selling it to Sony, and navigating the streaming revolution. Andy explains how being rejected at 26 became the fuel for his ambition, how his early documentary work took him around the world, and what he learned directing cultural icons including the Sex Pistols, Malcolm McLaren, and Truman Capote. The conversation dives into the business of creativity, including the high stakes Netflix pitch that led to a 100 million pound deal for The Crown, what global streamers look for when backing premium drama, and how British television has scaled to a global audience. Andy also reflects on his transition into an executive chairman role, mentoring the next generation of talent, and why protecting British creativity and a strong BBC matters more than ever. Timestamps 02:26 Journey through Granada 06:02 Transition to comedy and drama 09:34 The Queen and Prime Suspect 12:47 Founding Left Bank Pictures 39:35 Reaching out to Ken Braner 50:17 The Crown and Netflix partnership 01:04:35 Transitioning roles and future projects Find out more about Left Bank Picture and Andy Harris All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 58. Behind the doors of Downton Abbey: Managing the 1,300-year-old Highclere Castle | Lady Carnarvon | 22 Dec 2025 | 00:57:35 | |
Highclere Castle, the real Downton Abbey, is one of the most famous houses in the world. But what does it really take to run it as a modern business? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Fiona, Lady Carnarvon, custodian of Highclere Castle, about managing a 1,300-year-old heritage estate with roots dating back to 749 AD. She shares how Downton Abbey transformed Highclere’s global profile, what it is like to live and work alongside a major film production, and how the castle evolved into a year-round destination. Lady Carnarvon discusses her entrepreneurial approach, from Christmas events and behind-the-scenes tours to virtual experiences, bestselling books, and Highclere Castle Gin, while confronting the hard economic realities of British farming and long-term stewardship. The conversation also explores Highclere’s ghost stories, its sense of community, and why heritage, kindness, and authenticity matter more than ever in a changing world. Timecodes 04:29 Christmas at Highclere 09:56 Tutankhamun and Downton Abbey 18:41 Challenges of modern farming 27:11 Ghost stories and blessings 36:45 The mysterious death of Lord Carnarvon 43:38 The success of Highclere Castle Gin 48:03 Building a brand and community 56:43 Final thoughts and future plans Follow James Reed on Linkedin: Find out more about Lady Carnarvon and Highclere Castle: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more here This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 57. How to spot the next billion dollar opportunity before everyone else | James McHugh | 15 Dec 2025 | 01:04:08 | |
Some of the biggest global businesses started the same way: someone spotted an opportunity early- and then chose the right partner. In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with serial venture builder James McHugh, founder and chairman of Tquila. James reveals the “build-operate-transfer” playbook behind multiple eight-figure exits and how he’s now riding the AI wave with agentic systems and post-keyboard CRMs. He also shares how he spotted the Salesforce gap in Europe in 2010, repeatedly building (and exiting) high-growth tech-services including joint ventures with Salesforce, ServiceNow and now AI leaders like Anthropic and you.com. A candid conversation on scaling fast, choosing truth-seeking AI, why governments are dangerously unprepared for mass unemployment, and what abundance on the other side might actually look like. Timecodes 02:31 The Salesforce Opportunity: Building a Business in Europe 05:21 The tquila Story: Naming and Early Success 08:29 The Role of Partnerships in Business Success 11:13 AI and the Future: Opportunities and Challenges 23:22 The Impact of AI on Employment and Society 33:55 The Future of AI and Human Values 38:45 Driverless Cars and the Future of Transportation 47:04 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Society 49:15 The Future of Human Longevity with AI Follow James Reed on Linkedin: Follow James McHugh on LinkedIn: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more here This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 56. Banishing bureaucracy: How Octopus Group built a culture of entrepreneurship leading to a $9 billion valuation | Chris Hulatt | 08 Dec 2025 | 00:58:20 | |
How do you build a culture where risk-taking is celebrated, bureaucracy is banished and everyone thinks like an entrepreneur? In this episode, James is joined by Chris Hulatt, Co-founder of Octopus Group, a multi-billion-pound investment and energy business that started in a living room and grew into a global force spanning fund management, renewable energy and technology. Chris shares how Octopus went from backing UK startups to creating Octopus Energy, now valued at $9 billion, and why initiatives like Springboard are helping employees become founders themselves. We talk about how to make fast decisions without perfect data, why bureaucracy kills creativity and what it really takes to scale up without losing your entrepreneurial spark. Timecodes: 02:43 - Octopus Energy: The Startup Story 09:16 - The Importance of Financial Literacy 12:21 - Octopus Group Funds & Investment Approach 17:21 - Culture of Entrepreneurship at Octopus 21:40 - The Springboard Scheme for New Ventures 25:08 - Success Stories & Learning from Failure 28:44 - Barriers to Entrepreneurship in the UK 31:13 - Octopus Group’s Shared Purpose 34:05 - Decision Making & Avoiding Bureaucracy 41:05 - Customer-First Philosophy 44:05 - The Future of Octopus Group Donate to the BigGive Christmas challenge NOW! Follow Chriss Hulatt on LinkedIn Find out more about Octopus Group All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more here This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 55. Fame, failure & a 12-stone weight loss: The journey to 2 Michelin stars | Tom Kerridge | 01 Dec 2025 | 00:50:38 | |
Building a career in food is one thing - but what does it really take to become one of the UKs most famous chefs? In this episode of 'All About Business,' James Reed speaks with renowned British chef Tom Carriage, exploring Tom’s journey from washing dishes in small kitchens to becoming a Michelin-starred chef and a successful business owner with a portfolio of restaurants. Tom discusses his approach to leadership, the ethos behind mentoring young professionals, and his thoughts on balancing passion with business acumen. They also delve into Tom’s personal transformation, including his significant weight loss and sobriety, and discuss the broader challenges facing the hospitality industry, including taxation and workforce management. Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 02:40- Early career and challenges 08:52 Building a culinary empire 13:10 Philosophy and success 17:11 Mentorship and team building 27:18 Journey to sobriety 31:29 Embracing neurodiversity in the kitchen 40:52 Challenges in the hospitality industry 47:16 Future plans and reflections Donate to the BigGive Christmas challenge NOW! Follow James Reed on Linkedin Visit Tom Kerridge's website to learn more about his food, venues, books and other ventures All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more here This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 54. The secret behavioural prompts brands use to influence your choices | Raphy March | 24 Nov 2025 | 01:07:48 | |
How can businesses gain a true understanding of what drives customer decisions? And how can science be applied to create marketing that not only feels deeply human but also delivers measurable results? Today on All About Business, James is Raphy March, Managing Director at Cowry Consulting, a pioneer in combining behavioral science with AI to help global brands like Coca-Cola, EasyJet, and Sky, influence behavior at scale. They explore practical insights on building human-centered AI strategies, the ethics of shaping customer experiences, and how entrepreneurs can use data and psychology to stand out, scale, and grow with purpose. Timecodes: 02:16 Introduction to Raphy March and Cowrie Consulting 08:27 The Nudge Unit and Government Applications 09:08 Behavioral Science in the Private Sector 17:53 Case Study: Keep Britain Tidy 26:51 Ethics in Behavioral Science 29:31 Practical Applications of Behavioral Science 33:37 Using Physical Evidence to Justify a Pay Rise 36:09 Improving Customer Retention at Sky 43:50 Behavioral Science in Brand Perception 49:16 The Role of AI in Behavioral Science 01:07:02 Future of Behavioral Science and AI Sign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOW Be part of the million job giveaway HERE Follow Raphy March on LinkedIn Find out more about Cowry Consulting All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||
| 53. Titan of the hotel industry reveals the 3 things you need to know to open a luxury hospitality business | Sir Rocco Forte | 17 Nov 2025 | 01:12:31 | |
Being successful in hospitality is incredibly tough. But how do you keep a focus on quality and authenticity whilst expanding into multiple new locations? In this episode of All About Business, James is joined by Sir Rocco Forte, titan of the luxury hospitality and hotel industry. They explore his incredible journey as an entrepreneur within a family whose history in hospitality spans over a century. They also delve into how he has prioritised community impact in his work as well as maintaining a family-oriented approach to make something special that lasts. Timecodes: 02:23 Building Iconic Hotels 09:43 The Forte Family Legacy 11:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Business 21:46 Expanding the Hotel Empire 38:54 Family Involvement in the Business 43:53 Leadership and Decision Making 01:00:25 Economic Views and Government Policies Sign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOW Be part of the million job giveaway HERE Find out more about Sir Rocco Forte and Forte Hotels here All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk | |||