Founder in the Chair – Details, episodes & analysis

Meet Saira Majid: Multi Award-Winning Accountant Empowering Entrepreneurs

In this episode of Founder in the Chair, I’m joined by the incredible Saira Majid, a multi-award-winning accountant and the founder of Saira Majid Accountants. With over 15 years of experience, Saira has built a reputation for providing outstanding financial and business advisory services to start-up's, SMEs, and charities.

As a Chartered Management Accountant, Saira’s expertise goes beyond numbers—she’s passionate about helping businesses thrive and achieve their goals.

Saira’s journey is inspiring, and in this episode, we explore her entrepreneurial path, her advice for business owners, and how she’s helping transform the financial side of entrepreneurship.

✨ Connect with Saira Majid:
🌐 Website: sairamajid.co.uk
📸 Instagram: @saira_accounts
💼 LinkedIn: Saira Majid

🎥 Don’t miss this opportunity to gain insights from one of the best in the industry!

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

In this episode of Founder in the Chair, Veena speaks to Urvashi on her journey to self discovery and her journey to entrepreneurship which started accidentally. Urvashi didn’t have an entrepreneurial background and neither was it in her family but this ‘accident’ changed the trajectory of her life!

Meet Urvashi a Soul Purpose life coach, Numerologist, Sound Therapist, qualified Personal Trainer and award winning Podcaster for Brown Girl Rising. She is on a mission to help women break down the internal barriers they’ve created for themselves and step into their best life by letting go of the past, moving through pain and raising their personal frequency to be more aligned with the soul authentic self.

Today, she helps women attract and manifest their deepest desires (abundance of love, health and great relationships) into their life like she did…

But but journey to self wasn’t easy, she faced a huge sexual trauma at university which changed her life and made her step into a more unbalanced masculine version of her… leaving her with thousands in debt, an unhealthy relationship with food and alcohol and bulimia in her early 20’s… Which ultimately meant she remained single for most of her 20’s and 30’s even though her heart craved love and companionship.

It wasn’t until she was on the path of awakening and she started to uncover the love she had for herself, where she started moving her body, boxing, lifting, eating intuitively that her true feminine nature started to shine through. And her life changed for the better… It transpired that her numerological gift of 9 was the divine feminine and mastery of self… but she had no clue until she got her chart!

After really working on her love for self, claiming back her life from the trauma and embodying the power of the divine feminine…

Urvashi finally met her soul mate at the tender age of 43 and it all happened ‘quickly’ after the work she did … and just before her 44th birthday she moved in with him and became a step mum to 2 lovely children. (She now does the school run and has made an impact on the kids lives).

Today Urvashi impacts the lives of women across the world with her story of reclamation, becoming and self love to inspire women to find themselves , get unstuck, heal relationships and step into the most magnetic version of themselves through life coaching, health and fitness coaching and numerology.

She is also making an impact on the children around her and on children who are going through the process of their parents divorcing and meeting parents new partners by publishing a series of children’s story books over the next few years.

If you want more info about her or how to work with Urvashi please see below:

website: www.unlimitedurvashi.com 
Instagram: @unlimitedurvashicoaching 
TikTok: @unlimitedurvashi_coach

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

What happens when life forces you to pause and question everything?

In this episode of Founder in the Chair, we sit down with Chintal Kakaya, a Transformation Guide & Spiritual Mentor, who helps empaths, cycle breakers, and change-makers step into their power. Chintal shares her deeply personal journey—how a life-changing moment led her to question her purpose, break free from limiting beliefs, and merge science with spirituality to create profound transformations.

With a background in clinical Occupational Therapy, energy healing, and spiritual coaching, Chintal offers powerful insights on personal growth, healing, and stepping into alignment with your true self.

🔮 If you’ve ever asked yourself, Who am I? Why am I here?—this conversation is for you.

📌 Stay connected with Chintal:
🌟 Instagram: @thesacredhaveli
🌍 Website: www.thesacredhaveli.com

🎙 Subscribe to Founder in the Chair for more inspiring founder stories!
#FounderInTheChair #Podcast #Entrepreneurship #WomenInBusiness #Transformation #Spirituality #EnergyHealing #MindsetShift #PersonalGrowth #Empowerment #SpiritualAwakening #CycleBreaker #Intuition #HealingJourney #MakeupByVeena

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

Akhil Mair: From Passion to Multi Award Winning Property Finance Leader

Akhil Mair is the Managing Director of Our Mortgage Broker, a specialist property finance brokerage in the UK. With over two decades of experience, Akhil has transformed his passion for property into a successful career, providing tailored financial solutions for residential and commercial clients.

Early Career and Passion for Property

Akhil’s journey began in 2002 at HBOS, where he held various roles including bank clerk, branch manager, business banking manager, and credit analyst. These positions offered him invaluable insights into the financial sector and reinforced his belief in property as a solid asset class. In 2005, he purchased his first property, further igniting his interest in the industry.  

Establishing Our Mortgage Broker

In 2017, after obtaining his CeMAP qualification, Akhil founded Our Mortgage Broker with the goal of becoming the most trusted and sought-after residential and commercial broker in the UK. The firm offers a wide range of financial services, including short-term finance and bespoke solutions for both UK and foreign nationals.  

Leadership and Expertise

Under Akhil’s leadership, Our Mortgage Broker has access to over 135 trusted lenders, enabling them to provide clients with personalized and cost-effective property finance options. Akhil’s expertise spans residential, buy-to-let, bridging, commercial, and development finance, making him a leader in the industry.  

Industry Insights and Client Commitment

Akhil is dedicated to helping clients achieve their property ownership dreams by offering tailored solutions that meet individual financial needs. He emphasizes the importance of understanding each client’s unique situation and providing bespoke advice to ensure optimal outcomes.  

Future Goals

Looking ahead, Akhil aims to expand Our Mortgage Broker by increasing the advisory team to 25 experienced advisors by 2025 and enhancing the firm’s national brand presence. His commitment to ethical practices and exceptional service continues to drive the company’s growth and success.  

Connect with Akhil Mair
   •   LinkedIn: Akhil Mair
   •   Instagram: @ourmortgagebroker
   •   Website: www.ourmortgagebroker.co.uk

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

From Kitchen Dreams to a Spiritual Calling | Founder in the Chair with Tejal Bathia

In this episode of Founder in the Chair, I sit down with the incredible Tejal Bathia, a woman who turned her accidental kitchen start-up into a thriving business empire. Tejal’s journey is one of resilience, determination, and reinvention—a story that will inspire any entrepreneur to think about their “why” and their next chapter.

Tejal began her business accidentally from her home kitchen, mastering her craft through YouTube and working tirelessly to provide for herself and her daughter as a single mother. Her passion and grit grew her business from her kitchen to a quintessential cake shop with charm and character, where she created the warm, inviting vibe of a Central Perk-style café—just like in Friends! Her dream expanded into a 70-seater coffee and dessert lounge that became a true community hub.

But Tejal always knew there had to be an “out”—a plan for the next step, which so many founders overlook. When the time came, she made the bold decision to shut shop and follow her true passion. Today, Tejal is a Rapid Transformational Therapist, Psychic Medium, and Spiritual Coach, helping others heal and transform their lives.

Her story is a powerful reminder: always know your exit strategy, whether it’s a Plan B, retirement, or a new passion.

Connect with Tejal:
✨ Instagram: @tejalbathia
✨ Website: www.tejalbathia.com

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

From Banking to Theta Healing: Luvleen Kaila’s Transformational Journey | The Founder in the Chair Podcast

In this episode of The Founder in the Chair, we explore the journey of Luvleen Kaila, a former banker turned Theta Healing Practitioner. Luvleen’s story is a powerful example of how personal transformation can lead to entrepreneurial success.

After 17 years in banking, Luvleen realised she wasn’t living her true purpose. She ventured into several different businesses, but none of them fully aligned with her deeper calling. 

It was three years ago when she discovered Theta Healing, a pivotal moment that shifted both her career and her personal life.

Luvleen’s decision to transition from the corporate world to becoming a Theta Healing Practitioner wasn’t an easy one, but it was the key to unlocking her true potential. 

Her story is a reminder that when you feel unfulfilled or stuck, there’s always an opportunity to reinvent yourself and create something meaningful.

In this episode, Luvleen shares how she overcame limiting beliefs, and how you too can break free from patterns holding you back to build the life and business you truly desire.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation on the power of transformation and how to take the leap into something that truly aligns with your purpose.

Connect with Luvleen:
✨ Instagram: @luvleen.kaila
✨ Website: luvleen@luvleenkaila.com

Don’t forget to subscribe for more stories of entrepreneurial reinvention.

Let us know in the comments: What’s one change you’re ready to make in your life or business?

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

Deepa Sapra isn’t your typical yoga teacher—she’s a force of nature. A yoga therapist, transformation guide, and true limit-breaker, Deepa has built a thriving business that redefines what it means to practice yoga.

Forget the idea that yoga is just about flexibility or relaxation. Deepa’s work goes beyond the physical postures, diving deep into breathwork, meditation, and yogic philosophy to help people transform from the inside out. Her approach is rooted in the understanding that yoga is a holistic practice—one that unites the body, mind, and spirit to create profound and lasting change.

Through her classes, workshops, and retreats, Deepa guides students through powerful asana practices designed not just to build strength and flexibility, but to release tension, unlock energy, and restore balance to the nervous system. She teaches that every pose is an opportunity for self-discovery—whether it’s finding stability in a Warrior pose, surrendering in a deep forward fold, or expanding the heart in a gentle backbend. Her sequences are thoughtfully crafted to help students reconnect with their bodies, develop greater awareness, and experience the true essence of yoga beyond just the physical.

Breathwork is another cornerstone of Deepa’s teaching. She emphasizes the profound impact of pranayama, the ancient practice of controlling the breath to influence the mind and emotions. Whether guiding students through Dirga pranayama for deep relaxation, Kapalabhati for energizing the body, or Nadi Shodhana for balancing the nervous system, she helps them experience firsthand how the breath is the bridge between the body and the mind. With regular practice, her students develop a heightened sense of clarity, focus, and emotional resilience—qualities that extend far beyond the yoga mat and into daily life.

Meditation is at the heart of Deepa’s work, helping students cultivate inner stillness in an often chaotic world. She introduces accessible meditation techniques that allow both beginners and seasoned practitioners to deepen their awareness and quiet the mind. From guided visualizations to mantra meditations, she creates a space for profound self-reflection, healing, and transformation. Her approach helps students navigate their thoughts and emotions with greater ease, allowing them to move through life with more presence and intention.

Beyond the physical and mental aspects of yoga, Deepa also integrates yogic philosophy and self-inquiry into her teachings. She encourages students to explore the deeper layers of their practice—how they show up on the mat as a reflection of how they show up in life. Through the wisdom of the Yoga Sutras, the Chakras, and the Eight Limbs of Yoga, she helps students cultivate discipline, compassion, and a deeper connection with their true selves.

Her retreats and immersive programs offer a sanctuary for transformation, where students can fully immerse themselves in daily asana, breathwork, and meditation. These experiences provide an opportunity to reset, recharge, and realign with their highest potential. Whether guiding students through dynamic Vinyasa flows, restorative Yin sessions, or deeply meditative Yoga Nidra practices, Deepa creates an environment where true healing and growth can unfold.

If you’re looking for more than just a workout—if you’re ready to experience yoga as a to

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

Glamber wants to bring everyone access to traditional South Asian clothing while reducing the need to own. That's better for the people and for the planet.

About Amber the Founder

Like any great business start-up story…it all started in my loft. No, literally, it really did start in my loft. The catalyst? The overwhelming sea of bags and suitcases containing sarees, lenghas, shawls, suits, and an assortment of curated accessories that had found their way into my space and stayed there. Amidst the chaos of selecting an outfit for an upcoming wedding, the realisation hit—there had to be a more purposeful way to manage this treasure trove.

Frustrated, perplexed and feeling really warm in the loft, a series of questions sparked a revelation: Did I truly need this vast collection? Would my evolving body shape and style ever align with these cherished pieces again? And how had my husband not questioned the loft transformation and the clothing within it?

From these musings, the concept of Glamber was born—a singular destination where you could not only sell or rent your fashion treasures but also share the joy of these unique pieces with like-minded individuals. The idea of parting with a beloved lengha was softened by the notion of someone else cherishing it just as much.

Hello! I'm Amber, the visionary behind Glamber, your sanctuary for all things new, pre-loved, and re-fashioned. Much like you, I sought to declutter my wardrobe, alleviate the guilt of neglected pieces, and recoup some of the money I have spent. I am so thrilled you are here and I invite you to fearlessly join me in refreshing your wardrobe and rewriting the rules of fashion together.

Find Glamber on www.glmbr.com

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

Listen to why Rai started pop up events for the South Asian entrepreneurs. Her motto is "The best time to help support a small business is always today"

She only started in 2024 and she has managed to shine a spotlight on so many businesses already.

She is hosting many events so if you are interested in taking part then get in touch with her on Instagram @bigfatindianpopupbyrai

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com

📍 How Nashtaa Went Viral – No Ads, Just Instagram! | Founder in the Chair 🎙️

Meet Juslena Randhawa, the powerhouse behind Nashtaa Cafe & Restaurant, a thriving chain serving up a unique fusion of Indian and English flavours in Slough & Ealing. A mother of three with a passion for cooking, Juslena transformed her love for food and family recipes into a viral success story—all without paid ads!

In this episode of Founder in the Chair, Juslena shares how she built Nashtaa into a must-visit dining destination, attracting food lovers through nothing but organic Instagram growth, an Instagrammable ambiance, and authentic flavours. She proves that consistency, vision, and a great product can turn a dream into reality—even when people doubt you!

✨ Watch to discover:
✅ How a vision board helped bring her dreams to life
✅ The secret to growing a restaurant through social media (no ads needed!)
✅ The power of believing in yourself and your brand
✅ Why Nashtaa’s unique fusion of flavour's keeps customers coming back

If you’re a foodie, entrepreneur, or someone chasing a dream, this episode is a must-watch! Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more inspiring founder stories.

📲 Connect with Juslena & Nashtaa:
👤 Personal: @juslenarandhawa
🍽️ Restaurant: @nashtaa_restaurant
🌍 Website: nashtaa.co.uk
💼 LinkedIn: Juslena Randhawa
🎥 TikTok: nashtaa_restaurant

📢 Tag a foodie who needs to visit Nashtaa! 🍽️📍

#Nashtaa #FounderInTheChair #JuslenaRandhawa #ManifestYourDreams #InstagramMarketing #ViralRestaurant #NoAdsNeeded #SmallBusinessSuccess #FoodieHotspot #SloughEats #EalingFoodies #SupportLocal

If you have a story to share, to inspire, or to encourage someone to take a step into the world of entrepreneurship, then please get in touch, the world needs to hear more stories, it's not always an easy ride, by sharing we may just help someone to take the first step or to grow in their business journey.

Instagram @founderinthechair

YouTube - Founder in the Chair

https://youtu.be/37Mhkf_A3gU

Email me if you would like to be a Founder in the Chair at founderinthechair@gmail.com