In this episode of The Entrepreneur Experiment, Gary Fox sits down with Timo Boldt, the visionary founder and CEO of Gousto, the UK’s leading homegrown meal-kit company. From humble beginnings hand-delivering recipe boxes and knocking on doors, to building a data-powered food business that serves millions of dinners annually, Timo shares his 13-year journey of grit, resilience, and customer obsession. He opens up about the early grind, raising capital without a single VC contact, harnessing AI to scale operations, and his mission to make healthy eating effortless. Whether you’re a startup founder, food enthusiast, or curious about building a complex, capital-intensive company, this episode is packed with real-world lessons on leadership, discipline, and creating meaningful impact.

Show Notes

In this episode, we cover:

🔥 How Timo went from cooking in his tiny flat to delivering millions of dinners annually

🚀 The scrappy early days—handing out flyers, door-to-door sales, hand-packing boxes

💡 Why customer obsession and continuous improvement power Gousto’s growth flywheel

📈 How Gousto uses AI in everything from logistics to recipe creation and personalisation

💰 The realities of scaling a capital-intensive food business (hundreds of millions raised)

🌱 Timo’s vision of Gousto as a future preventative healthcare platform

⚡ The underrated power of personal discipline: mindset, gratefulness, and fitness 💬 “The grass is greenest where you water it. Take care of yourself, obsess about the customer, build the best team you can—and great things will happen.” — Timo Boldt

Links & Resources
Gousto (now in Ireland)— Try the UK’s leading homegrown meal-kit service: https://www.gousto.co.uk/ 
Timo Boldt on LinkedIn — Follow Timo’s journey: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timo-boldt/ 
Book: Die With Zero by Bill Perkins

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In this Mentor Moment from episode 370, Nadia Adan shares how she left a high-paying corporate job in finance to launch her own car dealership, Ashford Motors, just before the pandemic. With grit, intuition, and a flair for social media, Nadia built a thriving business from scratch—even as others called her a "backstreet garage." This short episode is packed with powerful insights on betting on yourself, overcoming cultural expectations, and building a brand with both heart and hustle.

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This week's mentor is Marc McCabe, GP at Nomad Capital

Marc was one of the first employees and helped it scale to become a global brand.

Today, he answers the question every entrepreneur wants to know, "What do investors look for when they decide on making an investment or not?

To listen to the full episode, go back to episode 228

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Go wherever in the world you are treated best. 

This is the financial & life philosophy of my guest, Andrew Henderson, the founder of Nomad Capitalist.

In a world of remote work, low cost travel and freedom of choice, where should you live in 2024?

In this revealing chat, we explore the concept of being a global citizen. How can this save you money, cut your tax, improve your quality of life & open up a world of investment choices.

We peel back the layers of identity and home in a world where mobility and diverse opportunities are reshaping what it means to be a global citizen.

Lastly, we delve into the intricate world of geopolitics, multiple passports, and tax planning in an era where global living is no longer just for the wealthy elite.

This episode isn't just a conversation; it's a masterclass in harnessing the power of global perspectives to fuel business growth and personal fulfilment.

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Shana is the founder of Tailr, which is redefining production for the clothing industry.

This was one of the most open & frank chats on the pod in 2024. 

Shana and I peel back the layers of startup advice, highlighting the importance of filtering through the noise to find what truly resonates with your own entrepreneurial spirit.

After two years, she faced an impossible decision, give up or start again.

We navigated the complex journey from concept to market, with Shauna opening up about the challenges faced when developing her AI-driven sizing solution, and the grit needed to persevere through failed pitches and critical feedback.

It's not just about bouncing back; it's about asking the right questions and having those transformative Eureka moments that steer your product to success. Sharing personal stories, we reflected on the crucial role of mentorship, learning from setbacks, and the validation that comes with launching a product that genuinely impacts people's lives.

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Rob Horgan, the founder of Velo Coffee is your mentor this week.

He is a master marketer, so naturally, I had to find out his secret. Here is Rob's marketing masterclass.

Rob's full episode with Gary is episode 221.

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Bobby Healy, the mastermind behind Manna's skyrocketing drone delivery service, is not your average CEO; and this is not your average chat. 

We take a closer look at Bobby's extraordinary narrative, where resilience isn't just a buzzword. He's not just outmanoeuvring giants like Amazon; he's sharing how Twitter has become an invaluable tool for shaping his personal brand and business growth. We're peeling back the layers of corporate marketing to reveal the compelling stories of the people powering these ventures and why an authentic founder's voice is more resonant than any polished PR pitch.

Venture into the high-stakes world of entrepreneurship with a man who's turned the daunting task of founding and scaling businesses into an art form. Bobby recounts the serendipitous twists that catapulted him from cumbersome corporate chains to the helm of nimble, innovative ventures. He lays bare the triumphs and tribulations of his journey, from navigating the uncertainties of early-stage startups to mastering the strategic timing of acquisitions.

Bobby embraces life's randomness that define the entrepreneurial spirit.

As we zoom in on the nitty-gritty of drone delivery, Bobby doesn't shy away from the hurdles that come with revolutionizing transportation. He shares how Manna is crafting a future where drones seamlessly integrate into urban landscapes, all while maintaining a laser focus on customer experience and market creation. 

For those looking to carve their own path in the tech world, Bobby's insights are gold dust. He  offers up hard-earned wisdom for ambitious minds: cherish your network, embrace the irrelevance of failure, and always remember that the greatest successes often come from starting early and surrounding yourself with talent. Join us for a conversation that's as electrifying as it is insightful, packed with lessons for anyone daring to disrupt the status quo.

---

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Vinny Breslin, the co-founder of Uplisting, recounts the gripping tale of how a bootstrapped idea soared to an annual recurring revenue of $3 Million and processed an astonishing $400 million for clients. 

Vinny built UpListing before selling in late 2023 to Airdna for an undisclosed amount. 

His success is a testament to innovation and grit, revealing the transformative power of remote collaboration. The founders didn't meet in person for 2 years! 

This story isn't just about celebrating milestones; it's a deep-dive into the perseverance and tech-savvy required to refine an industry.

We hear how Vinny hunted in Facebook groups for his first customers and kept a ruthlessly simple metric to focus the company on growth.

Vinny's personal account of the transition from founder to post-sale life is rich with raw emotion and candid revelations about the entrepreneurial grind. We explore the evolving definition of success, appreciating the less-trodden paths that stray from VC funding and flashy headlines. 

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Embark on a journey through the heart of entrepreneurship with Oisin Hanrahan as he unveils Keychain, his latest venture poised to revolutionize manufacturing.

New York serves as a backdrop for our deep dive into the persistent spirit needed to thrive in the post-pandemic renaissance of businesses. Oisin's fresh insights into the transformation of office space demands, workforce dynamics, and the agile adaptability needed to steer a company like Angie and Handy through crises, provide a masterclass for any entrepreneur looking to weather the ever-shifting business landscape.

We explore the surprising undercurrents of the manufacturing world where capacity and business needs tell a complex story. Oisin's Keychain emerges as a beacon of innovation, aiming to transform consumer habits by easing the path for healthier food options in grocery stores. The conversation takes an analytical turn, dissecting the nuances of starting a new venture in a challenging market, and the critical steps in validating market needs that can make or break a business idea.

Wrapping up, we delve into the sacrifices of successful entrepreneurship, where personal investments often transcend financial stakes, shaping the life of an enterprise. Oisin shares a relatable narrative of transition, from selling a bustling start-up to grappling with the allure of new ventures and the resilience required to pursue them.

This episode is not just a conversation; it's a treasure trove of entrepreneurial wisdom, seasoned advice, and a glimpse into the future of industry innovation.

Find out more about MindShift Coaching Programme: https://bit.ly/3Sc4u6Y 

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Join the conversation with the indomitable Sonya Lennon, as she shares the riveting story of her entrepreneurial voyage, which weaves together fashion innovation and profound social impact.

Sonya is the founder of Lennon Courtney, co-founder of Lift Ireland and founder of WorkEqual.

Our discussion unravels the complexities of brand development, the agility necessary in the face of business challenges, and the insightful moments of adaptability that redefine an entrepreneur’s path.

Sonya's candid reflections on managing multiple businesses, including the tech venture Frockadvisor, serve as a masterclass in resilience.

Wrapping up our exploration, we reflect on the indispensable role diversity plays in leadership and business, examining the nuances of women in senior roles and the risks current political climates pose to gender progress.

This episode is not just a narrative of personal triumph and societal contribution; it's a rallying cry for leaders and changemakers to seize the mantle of responsibility and drive the change they wish to see in the world.

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Going from zero to one is the single most difficult task for any founder.

On today's mentor moment, Dan & Ciaran explain how they did it with ProtexAI, their startup which has raised $18 million, has customers all over the globe and complete the YCombinator programme in San Francisco.

Find out more about MindShift Coaching Programme: https://bit.ly/3Sc4u6Y 

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Few companies in the world have shaped the world of travel like Ryanair. They took an entire industry and ripped up the playbook.

In today's episode, we get the full inside story from Dec Ryan, the co-founder of Ryanair.

From early days of offering cut prices flights to London to building a low cost model that has defined the world of air travel in the last 20 years.

Dec has repeated this model all across the world including Columbia and Mexico.

We also explore the future of flight with Dec's investment in electric aircraft.

Find out more about MindShift Coaching Programme: https://bit.ly/3Sc4u6Y 

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In this powerful episode of The Entrepreneur Experiment, Gary Fox meets Sean Brett – the unstoppable founder behind Steeltech Sheds. From painting houses with no experience to dominating Galway’s coal market and eventually building Ireland’s leading steel shed business, Sean shares a rollercoaster entrepreneurial journey packed with grit, hustle, and heart.

With no formal education beyond the age of 14 and a background shaped by dyslexia and adversity, Sean embodies the very essence of resilience. He opens up about cold calling his way to success, reinventing himself through personal development, and why not caring what others think is the greatest entrepreneurial mindset of all.

This is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever doubted themselves, questioned their path, or needed a reminder that the best businesses often start with zero resources and pure belief.

🎧 Show Notes:

In this episode, we cover:

🔥 Sean’s first “Eureka” ad that kickstarted his painting business
🚛 How he went from one bag of coal to Galway’s biggest coal distributor
🏗 The origin story of Steeltech Sheds – and the pints-fuelled brainstorming that led to the name
🧠 Why overcoming dyslexia became one of his greatest strengths
🧰 The surprising power of rejection and how it built his sales resilience
📉 What he did when orders dried up overnight during the crash—and how expansion saved him
🎯 The marketing lessons he learned that still hold true today
🧍 Why being the face of your brand matters more than ever in the age of AI
💬 “If you could not care what other people think about you, your life would be so much happier, better, successful.”

🔗 Links & Resources:
Steeltech Sheds — Learn more about Sean’s business: https://www.steeltechsheds.ie/ 
The Entrepreneur Experiment Newsletter — Stay updated with new episodes and insights: https://www.mrgaryfox.com/subscribe-1

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My gift to you for 2024 is my complete guide to reviewing your year and planning 2024.

This episode breaks down in detail how I plan my entire year and the systems I use for success.

Happy New Year and I hope this episode helps you plan your best year yet. 

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Have you ever wondered what it takes to turn a family business into a multi-million-pound empire? Jacqueline O'Donovan, a pioneer in waste disposal, did just that at 19, steering her company through decades of growth and innovation.

Jacqueline is the MD of O'Donovan Waste Disposal in the UK and her father, Joe, originally hails from Cork.

Jacqui built the business from £175,000 turnover to £18 million before selling in 2022.

She was awarded an OBE in December 2023 for her services to business in the UK. 

Today's episode peels back the curtain on how she navigated the emotional landscape of selling her business, maintained excellence over 37 yeears, and what fuels her current and future ventures.

Venture into the world of entrepreneurship with Jacqueline, as she recounts the early days of stepping into leadership and the profound influence of her family's immigrant roots and work ethic. Her personal narrative intertwines with astute business insights, highlighting the significance of communication, consistency, and the challenges of scaling a business. As we delve into her meticulous design of an environmentally conscious facility, Jacqueline's experience shines a light on combating gender inequality with knowledge and confidence, proving that these are the ultimate tools for success in a male-dominated industry.

As we close, Jacqueline's transition from waste management to the realms of PR, marketing, and storytelling unfolds, revealing the breadth of her expertise. Her candid discussion on mentorship, the fallacy of needing to fail in entrepreneurship, and juggling personal life with professional commitments offers a treasure trove of wisdom. 

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Join the culinary adventure with self-taught chef and entrepreneur Eoin Sheehan as he serves up a feast of stories from his journey from humble beginnings to fueling Ireland's elite athletes.

With over 100 live shows of TV under his belt, Eoin's star is rising as he balances life as a TV chef and ambitious entrepreneur with a rapidly expanding bespoke culinary business feeding athletes and sports teams across Ireland.

His refreshing take on how personal branding and a 'doing your reps' ethos can shape not just a business, but an entire lifestyle, is a recipe for inspiration.

Eoin reveals his insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the significance of savoring life's moments and not letting work consume you. His story is a testament to the delicate balance between fostering a thriving business and cultivating a rich personal life – a balance many of us strive for.

Visit Eoin's Business: https://bit.ly/47e0CHQ

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Your mentors today are John & Joe, two of the most impressive people I've had the pleasure to meet on this podcast adventure.

In April 2023, they sold their company to Zoom for an undisclosed figure, rumoured to be over $400 millon.

In this episode, they possibly share the most important lesson every aspiring founder should learn. How to launch your company, before you even have a product.

This is a bite-sized episode, to listen to the full interview, go back to episode 218.

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In this dynamic and insightful discussion, we sit down with Fiona O'Carroll, an esteemed business leader and CEO advisor, to explore the crucial shift to a digital mindset in today's rapidly changing business landscape.

Fiona has been a leader in companies such as Riverdeep, Independent News & Media and Vivendi Games.

Fiona brings her extensive experience as an "intrapreneur" to the table and shares her wisdom on the challenges that companies face as they transition from the industrial era to the digital era. With her strong emphasis on mindset over technology, Fiona's insights provide a unique perspective on leadership in the digital era.

We also discuss overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome, particularly for women in male-dominated industries, with Fiona sharing her personal experiences and how she learned to master her inner critic. The importance of self-awareness in overcoming self-doubt is emphasized, along with the idea that success does not eliminate these feelings but rather presents new opportunities for growth.

Join us as we share an inspiring story of a woman who discovered she was pregnant while being offered a high-level executive role and the power of overcoming self-doubt and societal expectations to embrace opportunities. 

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Your mentor today is Norman Crowley, the founder of Cool Planet & Ava.

He was 2 hours away from selling his business for $1 billion. We talk about how that feels, the power of intention and how he completely shifted his life goals after retiring at 28.

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Unlock the secrets of securing investment, scaling a business, and overcoming the obstacles faced by female entrepreneurs in our insightful discussion with Chupi Sweetman, founder of Chupi Jewellery, and James Doody, a director with IBI Corporate Finance.

This was filmed with a live audience at my studio in the private cinema in the Greenway Building by Iconic Offices

Expect to be inspired by Chupi’s journey, raising a remarkable €3.75 million last year, and James's expert advice on fundraising that will leave you feeling empowered and ready to take on the world of finance.

We don't just stop at raising capital, but pull back the curtain on the journey of starting a business from the ground up. Hear firsthand how Chupi took her business from a spare room to a successful brand, and get James's expert advice on building a solid financial plan and team. The power of networking, resilience, and turning rejections into opportunities also take center stage in our chat. 

Rounding out our episode, we broach the subject of finding the right investors, decoding terms, and the hidden costs of opportunity.

James shares his personal experience with investment, stressing the importance of matchmakers in aligning entrepreneurs and investors. We highlight the need to understand your business valuations and set realistic expectations. Chupi and James leave us with powerful insights into the world of entrepreneurship, reminding us that gender should never define your journey, and the importance of forming genuine bonds in business.

Tune in for an episode packed with wisdom, advice, and real-world experiences that every entrepreneur will find invaluable.

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Mark Abraham, the founder of Shackle, sits down with Gary Fox.

Shackle is the global travel app of the future. They have raised ove $20 million with the ultimate ambition of building a business bigger than Airbnb!

Originally from Tullamore, Mark now lives in Dubai after a career that has spanned the globe.

In this episode we discuss:

• His calculated decision to move to the Middle East
• How Shackle can be bigger than Airbnb
• Why Mark believes work life balance is a myth
• How he secured some of the world's biggest founders are investors
• His unique networking approach

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Speed of execution is what seperates entrepreneurs from wantrepreneurs.

Aonghus developed his very first product version using a cardboard box! 

Your mentor today shares with us the power of executing fast and how momentum is everything when building your first product.

Aonghus Shortt is the CEO & founder of Food Marble.

You can go back and listen to the full episode at EE 125. 

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Michael Corcoran walked away from one of the most coveted jobs in marketing after building one of the world's most respected social media brands.

Why?

We hear the real story of the explosive split that caused Michael and most of his team to walk out on their jobs at Ryanair.

Michael also gives us a masterclass in the secrets that generated 2 billion organic impressions in just 18 months. 

Ever wondered how to craft content that truly resonates with your audience? Michael spills the beans on how to effectively reach and engage audiences through understanding their needs, wants, and motivations. He also gives us a peek into the strategy behind Ryanair's "always on" content.

Michael's innovative approach focuses on timing, speed, and a pre-planned, coordinated strategy rather than purely reactive content. The final part of our chat revolves around Michael's transition to a consultancy role, his insights into the potential and challenges of various social media platforms, and the impact of social media on businesses and individuals.

From Treads to Instagram and TikTok, Michael discusses his experiences and perspectives on these platforms. His invaluable advice for entrepreneurs and business owners highlights the importance of maintaining professionalism and integrity. You can't afford to miss this enlightening episode, so tune in for a wealth of insights into the dynamic world of social media.

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In this bite-sized Mentor Moment from Episode 384, David Jelly, founder of Property Bridges, joins Gary Fox to dissect two of Ireland’s biggest challenges: why people aren’t investing — despite sitting on billions in cash — and why startups struggle to retain talent in a post-COVID world. From cultural mindsets to broken incentives, David gets honest about what needs to change.

Whether you're a founder, investor, or just trying to make sense of Ireland’s economic contradictions, this moment will provide some useful food for thought on investing in Ireland, and how to shape your team in our hybrid working world. 

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In today's episode we go behind the scenes of last week's Wealth Summit and my time with Steven Bartlett.

I share the insights & lessons he revealed both on stage but also behind the scenes as we hung out backstage.

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Your mentor today is Rena Maycock, the founder of Cilter.

Rena shares with us how she quit a high-paying CEO job to earn her freedom by becoming her own boss.

We chat about the pros and cons of starting your own venture and how you know if you are ready to start.

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Join me in a compelling conversation with Sharon Keegan, the unstoppable force behind Peachy Lean. Our chat uncovers the raw truth of navigating the entrepreneurial landscape as a woman, highlighting Sharon's unyielding grit in the face of obstacles.

From the overwhelming surge of customer demand to the striking differences in the UK and Irish markets, Sharon's resilience is truly inspirational. Our conversation doesn't shy away from the harsh realities of entrepreneurship. Listen in as we delve into gender dynamics in raising capital, underscored by Sharon's personal journey in a male-dominated industry.

We also ponder the biases faced by women from different backgrounds and the pivotal role of female investors on boards. Sharon's experiences and advice are invaluable for aspiring female entrepreneurs looking to make their mark. As we wrap up our thought-provoking dialogue, Sharon and I delve into the historical design bias in products and its impact on women.

We also discuss the importance of mental health and the potential of investing in psychedelics. Sharon's personal journey, her fight against societal biases, and her commitment to mental health make this episode a must-listen. Don't miss out on the chance to gain insights from one of the most successful female entrepreneurs of our time.

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Music by Andrew Applepie

Our mentor this week is Matthew Coffey, the co-founder of Squid Loyalty.

Matthew shows us how to tackle a massive problem and develop the niche of your business.

Squid Loyalty is going after a global problem so in this episode, we break down the logical plan Matthew and his co-founder Katie used to carve out their niche.

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Music by Andrew Applepie

James was just 17 when he hacked the Apple iPod Nano. This act of creativity catapulted him into the world's spotlight.

His next massive success was establishing CoderDojo to teach kids about technology & coding. What began as a small group in Cork soon spread all over the globe.

James gives us a compelling account of his exceptional journey. We also shed light on the emotional toll of his period, delving into the burnout he experienced, the self-reflection that followed, and the significance of self-care when charting such an ambitious path.

We explore the challenges of maintaining authenticity in the face of success, the pitfalls of seeking external validation, and the merits of finding joy in the journey itself instead of the end result.

After spending time in the Middle East as CTO of a major tech company, James now splits his time between Japan and Ireland while building Conjure, his latest project.

My Season Partners

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Music by Andrew Applepie

Our mentor today is Sonia Deasy, the co-founder of Pestle and Mortar.

This is one of our earliest episodes in the podcast, way back in episode 21.

Sonia shares with us the level of work that goes into what can seem like an overnight success story of when she appeared on QVC in America.

This was a massive tipping point for the brand. They sold out all inventory and it launched the brand into the American market.

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Music: Andrew Applepie.

Get ready to be captivated as we sit down with Ray Nolan, a self-made and self-taught tech genius who has carved a niche for himself in the entrepreneurial world.

Ray built and sold Hostelworld for one of Ireland's biggest tech sales at the time for $500 million.

Nolan is now the powerhouse behind eDesk Software. Our conversation explores his remarkable journey from a teenage coder to his current achievements and the highs and lows that punctuated his path to success. 

We discuss the importance of mentoring CEOs and management teams, facilitating successful company sales, and the indispensable role technology plays as an enabler. This episode is rich with insights, as Nolan deliberates on the challenges and prospects of entrepreneurship, the need for improvements in the startup ecosystem, and the potential pitfalls of setting the wrong objectives. The Irish government's role in entrepreneurship and strategic steps to expedite projects also merit our discussion. 

As we wind up, we reflect on the journey and success of eDesk Software, despite the challenges posed by COVID-19 and the difficulty of hiring a new CEO. Nolan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a focused role in product development and understanding an entrepreneur's journey to success. This episode is a must-listen for budding entrepreneurs or anyone interested in the business world. Let's tune in and learn from one of Ireland's most successful entrepreneurs, Ray Nolan.

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In the Lab today, I answer one of the most common questions I get sent by listeners.

When should I quit my job and how will I know its the right time to leave?

I share the lessons from over 300 episodes and the exact plan I used to boot strap my business from €500 to €500k.

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Embodying personal growth and self-belief, today's episode promises to be nothing short of inspirational. We sit down with James McCormack, an entrepreneur who's carved out a niche in the coffee sector, transforming lives via Dublin Barista Institute, and delighting taste buds with his performance coffee, Oyl. James' story of turning his life around, from grappling with obesity and alcoholism to becoming the healthier and more focused person he is today, is something we all can learn from.

Our conversation with James takes us on a journey exploring the importance of self-care, the role of technology and social media, and the generational shift towards health and self-improvement. James shares his insights into how he has harnessed the power of an entrepreneurial mindset to thrive in the unpredictable storm of the pandemic. His story offers motivation, inspiration, and the valuable lessons he's learned about self-belief and overcoming self-doubt.

Delving deeper, we unpack how James has developed good habits, the nuances of maintaining a balance between discipline and a normal life, and the value of having a strong support system. We explore the importance of attention to detail, dive into how James would invest 10 million euro and discuss his vision for the future. Ending with sound advice for entrepreneurs, this episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, insight, and tips for personal and professional growth. So join us on this transformative journey with James McCormack, and get ready to be inspired.

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Your mentor today is Rhona Togher, co-founder of the Lios Group.

How do you know when to go all in on your business? That is the question that haunts most first-time founders. Many never get past this stage.

Rhona tells us her story of quitting college and risking everything she had to make the business work.

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In this inspiring episode of The Entrepreneur Experiment, Gary Fox sits down with Charlene Flanagan and Niamh Ryan—the powerhouse duo behind Ella & Jo, one of Ireland’s fastest-growing beauty brands.

From a single product and two simultaneous pregnancies to a global business stocked in Boots, Dunnes Stores and over 400 pharmacies, their story is anything but ordinary. Charlene and Niamh open up about how they built Ella & Jo from the West of Ireland, how they define success on their own terms, and why authenticity, connection, and community are at the heart of everything they do.

Whether you’re a solo founder, aspiring entrepreneur, or building a business while juggling parenthood—this episode will leave you fired up, grounded, and full of ideas.

Show Notes:
In this episode, we cover:
💡 The serendipitous start to Charlene & Niamh’s partnership
👩‍🔬 From skin clinic and bridal makeup to co-founders of a global beauty brand
🧴 How a single brush cleanser idea turned into an award-winning product range
🌍 Building a global brand from the West of Ireland
💬 Why your business doesn’t have to be born in Dublin, London, or NYC
👩‍👩‍👧‍👦 Growing a business while growing a family—simultaneous pregnancies and startup hustle
🧘 The importance of defining your own version of success
🌟 How coaching and self-acceptance helped shape their leadership styles
📦 Behind the scenes of product development: the 9-month launch timeline
🤝 The role of trust, community, and social media in scaling Ella & Jo
🧠 How to stay creatively inspired while managing the demands of entrepreneurship

Links & Resources:

 💻 Ella & Jo Website: https://ellaandjo.ie 
📸 Charlene Flanagan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charleneflanagan_ 
👩‍⚕️ Niamh Ryan Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/niamhryan_skin/ 
🛍️ Buy Ella & Jo at Boots Ireland: https://www.boots.ie/ella-and-jo 
📚 Going for Growth – Women entrepreneurs programme: https://goingforgrowth.com/ 

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To celebrate a landmark episode, I invited back 4 of the best entrepreneurs I've had the pleasure of meeting over the last 300 episodes for a special live episode. 

We go deep on how early-stage businesses access capital, what early strategies they used to grow during turbulent environments such as Covid and what innovative plans they have to expand even during uncertain financial markets.

If you are an early-stage entrepreneur, this episode is a must-listen for practical insights and financial planning.

I am joined by:

- Peigin Crowley, founder of Ground Wellbeing

- Matthew Coffey, co-founder of Squid

- John Ryan, founder of Gigable

- Niall Harty, co-founder of All Real Nutrition

This episode was brought to you in association with The EIIS Innovation Fund & Quintas Capital.

I am proud to announce that I have joined the EIIS Innovation Fund as a special advisor. The fund, operated by Quintas Capital invests in innovative SMEs while investors benefit from 40% income tax relief.

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Today is a different episode. It is an honest story about the journey I've been on with mental health over the last 3 years.

Warning: I talk about difficult issues such as miscarriage and suicide so if either of those topics might upset you, please consider not listening to this one. You can revisit it at another time.

This is not expert advice or claiming to have the answers. This is simply me sharing my own journey in the hope it might help one other person.

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My most requested topic to cover is failure. However, it's not so easy. Rarely do people want to talk about it and when they do, their memories can be less than honest.

Connor Murphy was one of the few people to speak openly on failure and what it truly taught him.

Connor was the founder of Datahug which was sold for $13 million in 2016 and is now the founder of Bridge. 

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Music by Andrew Applepie

Ever wondered how entrepreneurs adapt and thrive, even in the midst of a global pandemic? 

Our favourite returning guest, Rob Lipsett, gives us his on the art of adapting to become location-flexible, financially independent, and most importantly, time-free.

As we catch up with him, Rob reveals how he orchestrated his escape from the 9 to 5 grind and ventured into the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship, all while maintaining a healthy lifestyle and nurturing real-world interactions.

Rob's journey is nothing short of inspiring. He unveils the strategies he employed to reach his individual goals, manage distractions, and optimize productivity, and that's just the tip of the iceberg. We delve into Rob's wellness routine, how he strikes a balance between remote work and real-world interaction, and get a sneak peek into his investment strategies. His experiences, from starting a business post-breakup to the challenges of selling a physical product, are bound to resonate with budding entrepreneurs.

This episode isn’t just about business and entrepreneurship, it's also about personal growth and building a lifestyle that aligns with your values. You'll be inspired by Rob's insights on overcoming failure, his persistence, and the importance of authenticity. We also discuss his tactics for monetizing social media through sponsorships, brand deals, and various income streams. As we wrap up, Rob even reveals how he would spend a million euros! Join us, for an episode teeming with motivation, education, and inspiration.

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:00) - Entrepreneurship, Evolution, and Personal Milestones
(0:10:42) - Escaping the Nine-to-Five Monotony
(0:15:15) - Entrepreneurial Evolution and Deep Focus
(0:26:38) - Balancing Remote Living and Real-World Interaction
(0:32:31) - Evolution of Fitness and Wellness
(0:42:26) - The Importance of Accountability in Fitness
(0:52:38) - Starting a Business After Breakup
(1:00:19) - Physical Product Challenges and Plans
(1:08:05) - Importance of Authenticity and Overcoming Failure
(1:14:17) - Persistence and Obsession
(1:24:19) - Make Money on Social Media
(1:27:52) - Personal Aesthetics, Online Presence, Opportunities
(1:37:00) - Investments and Financial Advice
(1:46:11) - Investing, Self-Care, and Fine Dining

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In the Lab today, I share the number 1 reason why people won't meet you for coffee and why your message goes unread.

I give you the full playbook on how to reach out to busy people and get their attention or time.

Most people approach networking in the completely wrong way. I share the experience of how I've connected with and built valuable connections with some of the world's best founders.

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Our mentor today is Jennifer Rock AKA The Skin Nerd. 

Jennifer will teach us how to let go of perfectionism struggles and her key tips for managing a business, setting realistic goals, trusting decisions, and balancing pressures.

We also look at the power of listening to your gut and how to build systems that help you make the leap from an employee mindset to an owners mindset.

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Today is a special episode for me personally as I first met Charlie back in 2019 at my live podcast in Dublin city when he was in the very first days of his entrepreneurial journey.

To now see him build a world-leading company is a beautiful milestone in both Charlie's journey and the journey of this podcast.

This is a business chat but it's filled with honesty, warmth and deeper exploration of why we become founders.

We navigate his journey, from college days to launching a company that's reshaping the research industry. The conversation illuminates how Bounce Insights empowers brands with a consumer research platform that facilitates quick and effective decision-making. Charlie and I unpack the complexities of human sources of feedback and emphasize the significance of a complementary skill set in business.

This episode takes a close look at the business-building process, shedding light on the evolution of the research industry and Charlie's disruptive approach. Charlie shares the challenges faced in convincing consumers to participate in surveys and how the industry responded with more efficient, cost-effective solutions. We delve into the power of customer discovery and psychology in understanding consumer needs and behaviours.

We conclude our conversation discussing the 'Entrepreneur Dream', its influence on young entrepreneurs, and the pursuit of happiness. Charlie and I also reflect on his experience with a failed business deal, underlining the importance of pursuing potential rather than happiness. In the end, we learn that the joy of entrepreneurship lies in the relationships we build, the support from family and friends, and the feeling of accomplishment when we reach our goals. Tune in for a candid chat filled with invaluable insights and lessons from a modern entrepreneur's journey.

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In the Lab today, I delve into the new trend of going into Monk Mode and why is it getting so popular?

Next Sunday marks the start of the last quarter of the year. This gives you the perfect opportunity to try Monk Mode.

But what is it and how can it help you become super productive?

Find out on today's episode. 

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Your mentor today is Oisin Hanrahan and he's going to give us a rapid lesson on the power of focus.

As founders, we can get distracted by the next shiny thing. However, Oisin has strict rules he enforces on himself and his team to ensure maximum focus and productivity.

Oisin started Handy which raised over $100 million before being aquired by Angi. Oisin become the CEO of Angi which at the time of recording had a valuation of $5 billion and over 5,000 staff.

You can go back to episode 136 to listen to the full conversation with Oisin. 

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Richie Collins, the founder of The Wealth Summit and Walfrid Private joins me on the pod.

He has dedicated his career to managing the money of some of Ireland's best founders.

 I sit down with Richie to ask him to tell me about the money habits and traits of the best founders. How do they make it and most importantly how do they invest it and spend it?

Important note: This podcast is intended for educational purposes only. None of the content in today's episode is to be taken as investment advice. Always seek advice from a professional before making any investment decisions.

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In this Mentor Moment from Episode 355 of The Entrepreneur Experiment, Barry Napier shares hard-won wisdom on how founders need to evolve as their companies scale. From letting go of control to building a culture of trust and accountability, Barry reflects on how he went from “hard work and chaos” to leading with clarity and self-awareness.

If you're a founder feeling the weight of doing it all, this is a must-watch moment on what it really means to grow — not just your company, but yourself.

Full Episode: The Entrepreneur Experiment Episode 355

Today in the Lab, I explore a single topic of immense power for your business. Leverage.

How can we apply the law of leverage to our business, our body and our brain?

Each Tuesday, I share my breakdown of a topic or theme that can help us improve as founders. 

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Our mentor today is Niall Harty, the co-founder of All Real Nutrition.

Niall was my first-ever pick as rising star and he has lived up to my prediction.

He teaches us how to get scrappy. After their relaunch, he trained their entire staff to become sales people and they went across Ireland selling from store to store. This is secret of every successful young startup. They focus on the only thing that matters, early sales to customers.

To listen to the full episode with Niall, go back to EE 151.

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Join Gary as he sits down with Kealan Lennon, founder of Clever Cards, and discuss his revolutionary approach to online payments. Listen in as we unpack how this innovative system allows employers to gift their employees up to 1,000 euros tax-free in the form of a digital Mastercard.

We hear the rollercoaster journey of how a Facebook algorithm change forced him to completely transform his business model within a few months.

A chance visit to China was the lightbulb moment and Clever Cards 2.0 was born to become an industry leader in the online payments space.

But the transition to digital payments is not without its challenges. Together with Keelan, we navigate the pressing issues of security and compliance, exploring how Clever Cards leverages biometrics and KYC for added protection. Keelan also expands on the transformative power of frictionless payments, demonstrating how Clever Cards makes it incredibly easy for CFOs to control card limits and expiry dates.

In a wide-ranging interview, we get a glimpse into the masterplan Kealan has that will transform the online payments space and where this will lead him as a founder.

--------- EPISODE CHAPTERS ---------

(0:00:01) - Clever Cards
(0:08:53) - Digital Transformation in Payments and Finance
(0:14:30) - Future of Payments
(0:25:17) - Transitioning From Consumer to B2B Business
(0:28:58) - Transitioning to a New Business
(0:34:28) - Irish Entrepreneurship and Building Connections
(0:44:10) - Building Infrastructure for Long-Term Success
(0:54:52) - Building for Future Success With Goals
(0:59:22) - Fitness and Work-Life Balance Importance

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Music by Andrew Applepie.