Step inside the moments that shaped the world’s biggest brands in The Room Where It Happened, a brand-new podcast hosted by Jake Humphrey.

Each episode sees the guest take us back inside a room and a moment that changed the course of their careers. With unprecedented insight on the pivotal decisions, unexpected turns, and behind-the-scenes moments that propelled companies to global recognition - and the lessons learned along the way from the people who were right in the middle of it all.

The Room Where It Happened is your front-row seat to the conversations that shaped history, offering a rare glimpse into the defining moments of top entrepreneurs and industry leaders.

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What does it take to disrupt an entire industry? For Danny Winer, it meant ignoring conventional wisdom, challenging the biggest names in retail, and taking a multimillion-dollar gamble on a single Super Bowl ad. 

In this episode, Danny shares the unexpected turns that led him from entertainment to entrepreneurship, the moment Gordon Ramsay’s team came calling, and how he built a brand by going against the grain.

It’s a masterclass in risk, resilience, and knowing when to seize the moment, even when the odds are stacked against you.

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What happens when a hungry banker decides to transform food delivery? For Will Shu, it meant hitting the streets as Deliveroo’s first rider, facing unexpected challenges, including getting a scooter helmet stuck on his head and navigating a high-stakes antitrust investigation.

In this episode, Will shares the key moments that shaped Deliveroo’s journey, from its humble beginnings with just three restaurants to becoming a global force. He opens up about early missteps, the mindset needed to push forward, and why staying obsessed with the customer experience made all the difference.

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What does it take to steer one of the world’s most iconic sports properties through a high-stakes transformation? For Greg Maffei, it meant navigating tense negotiations, decoding power dynamics, and learning to read the room, sometimes quite literally.

In this episode, Greg unpacks the behind-the-scenes moments that almost derailed the Formula One deal, the trust-building that kept it alive, and what he learned from working alongside legends like Bernie Ecclestone. From reading subtle negotiation cues to betting on bold strategies like Drive to Survive, it’s a deep dive into patience, perspective, and leadership under pressure.

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How does a former banker end up leading one of the fastest-growing food brands in Europe? For John Eckbert, it started with a magazine cover, a cold email, and a vision that would eventually reshape the fast-casual dining landscape in the UK and beyond.

In this episode, John takes us through the unexpected journey that led him to Five Guys, from a bold proposal sent through a website form to a game-changing partnership with the Morell family. He opens up about the high-stakes moments, the behind-the-scenes decisions that almost didn’t happen, and the quiet conversations that changed everything.

It’s a conversation about bold transitions, unlikely beginnings, and the power of product obsession in building something people truly love.

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What does it take to turn a niche idea into a global phenomenon? For Alan Barratt, it meant trusting his instincts, betting on a product his own board doubted, and risking it all on a pivot that made no logical sense, until it did.

In this episode, Alan reveals the behind-the-scenes battles that shaped Grenade’s bold transition from sports supplements to protein bars, the critical moment one unexpected ally tipped the scales, and how a sold-out launch in two hours changed everything.

It’s a masterclass in the power of instinct, risk-taking, and the importance of embracing failure along the way.

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Before Michael Jordan became a global icon, one unlikely figure made the call that changed everything. In this episode, Sonny Vaccaro shares how a gut instinct, a relentless belief in potential, and a risky pitch inside a boardroom at Nike rewrote the rules of sports marketing.

From nearly walking away after Jordan leaned toward Adidas, to the quiet resolve that kept him in the game, Sonny reveals the turning points, personal battles, and behind-the-scenes moments that led to one of the most impactful deals in sports history.

It’s a revealing look at how conviction, timing, and the courage to challenge convention can leave a legacy far bigger than the game.

Legends and Soles: Business, Creativity and Basketball – a Memoir of an Improbable Life by Sonny Vaccaro (with Armen Keteyian) is out now (£22.00, HarperCollins)

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What if the biggest breakthroughs in business don’t come from logic, but from noticing what others overlook?

In this episode, Rory Sutherland unpacks the moment a late-night scroll through economics blogs led him to Nudge, sparking a fascination with behavioral science that would quietly transform global brands. From saving a snack brand with a single word to helping an airline generate millions through a subtle design change, Rory shares the twists, experiments, and happy accidents that redefined how companies speak to their customers.

It’s a masterclass in innovation, risk, and the power of seeing things differently, straight from the man who helped transform marketing with his unconventional insights.

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What happens when a beauty industry powerhouse walks away from the boardroom to build something entirely her own? For Michelle Feeney, it meant defying expectations, embracing uncertainty, and launching a purpose-led brand grounded in decades of experience.

In this episode, Michelle shares the pivotal moment that sparked her leap into entrepreneurship, the challenges of starting over in her fifties, and the quiet doubts she turned into fuel. From frank kitchen-table conversations to redefining success on her own terms, she takes us behind the scenes of a career that’s blended bold vision with hard-won wisdom.

It’s a conversation about bold choices, inner drive, and the power of backing yourself, especially when it’s not the easy option.

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Before Virgin became a name known around the world, one bold decision set Richard Branson on a path that defied every expectation. In this episode, he recounts the pivotal moments, from turning a missed flight into the birth of an airline, to risking it all on artists no one else would sign.

Branson shares the battles behind boardroom doors, the doubts he faced from his own team, and the personal sacrifices made to keep his vision alive. From launching record labels to reaching space, it’s a rare glimpse into the mindset that built an empire on instinct, resilience, and refusing to play by the rules.

It’s a story about trusting your gut, staying the course, and building something unforgettable, one daring leap at a time.

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What happens when a supply chain expert is handed the keys to one of the world’s most iconic brands? For Jesper Brodin, it meant hitting the road, literally, to understand the heartbeat of IKEA from the ground up.

In this episode, Jesper shares the behind-the-scenes decisions that helped steer IKEA through a digital revolution, a global pandemic, and a bold sustainability mission. From the lessons he learned from IKEA’s legendary founder to the surprising power of a “banana card,” it’s a story of humility, reinvention, and leading with purpose.

It’s a playbook for navigating change, by listening, evolving, and never losing sight of what really matters.

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How do you take a brand from dated to defining? For Dylan Jones, it started with a clear vision, a few audacious hires, and the nerve to challenge tradition from the inside out.

In this episode, Dylan reveals the calculated risks behind GQ’s reinvention, the behind-the-scenes battles that shaped its new voice, and how one outrageous idea proved he was the right person for the job.

From navigating corporate pressures to redefining authenticity in media, it’s a candid look at transformation, leadership, and the power of trusting your vision when the stakes are high.

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What sparks the leap from corporate boardrooms to building a movement? For Michelle Kennedy, it was a single conversation in a meeting room that changed everything.

In this episode, Michelle shares the turning point that sparked her leap from legal counsel to founder, how early work with Bumble ignited a passion for building from scratch, and the behind-the-scenes battles of being a new mom in a male-dominated world. From brewing boardroom tensions to crafting Peanut, a platform that reshaped community for women, Michelle reveals the quiet resilience, bold risks, and everyday lessons that fueled her mission.

Michelle’s story is about embracing uncertainty, leading with heart, and knowing when to take the leap, even when the path ahead isn’t clear.

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Michelle's Book It Takes A Village is Peanut's essential guide to motherhood and will be published in September with pre-orders available now https://www.waterstones.com/book/it-takes-a-village/peanut/9780241709986

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Nick Grey didn’t follow the traditional path, and that’s exactly what made all the difference. Long before GTECH became a household name, Nick was a designer quietly solving problems, battling self-doubt, and planning a bold leap into entrepreneurship on his own terms.

In this episode, Nick reflects on the early rejection that shaped his drive, the breakthrough product that caught America’s attention, and the surprising media moment that changed everything. He also shares the lessons in patience, preparation, and trusting your vision, even when no one else sees it yet.

It’s a revealing look at how quiet determination and creative courage can power a global brand from the ground up.

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Dan Bosomworth wasn’t chasing fame, he was chasing a feeling. One moment in his garage, fed up with complacency and craving change, sparked the creation of a product that would go on to redefine recovery for athletes, celebrities, and wellness seekers around the world.

In this episode, Dan unpacks the early missteps, how challenge creates change, and the tough calls that pushed Brass Monkey toward the luxury space. From building bespoke tech to navigating near collapse, his journey is a raw look at what it takes to back yourself, build from the ground up, and create something truly original.

It’s a story about discomfort, discipline, and designing a brand that stands the test of time.

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Aron D’Souza didn’t just question the rules, he set out to rewrite them. Frustrated by the limitations of legacy institutions, he launched the Enhanced Games: a bold, controversial vision aimed at redefining the future of human performance.

In this episode, Aron shares the moment he walked away from venture capital to pursue something far riskier, the power of writing down your vision before speaking it aloud, and how viral headlines paired with deep operational strategy created a movement that couldn’t be ignored.

From fierce public debates to long nights and personal trade-offs, this episode is a story of conviction, controversy, and building something truly unprecedented.

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Learn more about Enhanced Games and follow Aron D’Souza for upcoming announcements.

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Jim Chapman was part of a digital wave no one saw coming, and found himself at the center of it. What started as casual videos turned into global influence, brand deals, and a move to London that changed everything almost overnight.

In this episode, Jim reflects on the chaos and charm of building a career in the early days of YouTube, the pressure to constantly evolve as the internet shifted beneath his feet, and how fatherhood forced him to rethink everything, from content schedules to what success really means. He shares the highs, the hidden challenges, and the quiet moments that taught him how to keep creating without losing himself.

It’s a story about fame, flexibility, and finding clarity when the spotlight dims.

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Paul Clement never set out to build a flashy startup, he set out to build something that mattered. Born from genuine passion and a deep connection to the community he served, his business grew not by chasing trends, but by staying grounded in purpose.

In this episode, Paul talks about the power of building slowly and sustainably, why loving the process matters more than chasing quick wins, and how adapting to change doesn’t mean losing your identity. From bootstrapping with intention to making decisions based on evidence, not ego, his story is a masterclass in thoughtful entrepreneurship.

It’s about staying true to your values, trusting your pace, and creating something that lasts.

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George Heaton’s journey with Represent wasn’t a straight line, it was a series of hard pivots, gut checks, and quiet rebuilds. What started as a passion project in streetwear hit a breaking point, forcing George to confront what wasn’t working and make the kind of decisions most founders avoid.

In this episode, George takes us through the moment everything stalled, the warehouse bathroom where reality hit, and the bold move to rebuild the brand from scratch. He shares how returning to simple product drops reconnected Represent with its roots, and how stepping back from the business side, by bringing in a CEO, unlocked new levels of creative and commercial growth.

It’s a story about letting go, doubling down, and the power of starting over, with purpose.

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Gary Stevenson didn’t follow a traditional path, he challenged it at every turn. Expelled from school at 16 and later pushed out of Citibank for speaking up, Gary’s journey has been shaped by resilience, rebellion, and a refusal to stay silent.

In this episode, Gary opens up about the high-stakes world of trading, the psychological toll of chasing success, and the personal battles that came with confronting corporate power. From unexpected lessons in Tokyo to quiet acts of solidarity in a cutthroat industry, his story is as much about survival as it is about awakening.

It’s a powerful look at what happens when you step off the fast track, and choose to fight for something bigger than yourself.

Partners:

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TS Anil’s journey through the world of banking has been anything but conventional. From boardrooms in Tokyo to the fast-moving culture of Silicon Valley, each step taught him that real change doesn't come from preserving the past, it comes from building something new.

In this episode, TS reflects on his decision to leave the safety of big banks, the career-defining leap into tech at Visa, and how those experiences prepared him to lead Monzo through some of its toughest moments, including the height of the pandemic. He shares the story behind Monzo’s most innovative features, the importance of listening closely to customers, and why purpose and adaptability are the real keys to leading in uncertain times.

It’s a story of bold decisions, quiet resilience, and building the kind of company you’d want to be a customer of.

Partners:

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The Book of Money: How to feel good (or better) about your finances by Monzo publishes 4th September: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Book-Money-better-about-finances/dp/1804948667

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Alex Packham knows what it’s like to have everything change in a single day, and nothing changes at all. From selling ContentCal to Adobe from his spare bedroom in the middle of lockdown to waking up the next morning wondering who he was without the business, Alex’s journey blends adrenaline highs with the quieter, harder work of rebuilding identity.

In this episode, he opens up about the reality of sudden wealth, the role of luck in big wins, and why mental health matters just as much as the deal itself. Alex shares the behind-the-scenes strategies that helped a small team “punch above their weight,” the lessons he’s bringing from Silicon Valley back to the UK, and how letting go of ego has reshaped his approach to life and work.

It’s a candid look at ambition, adaptation, and what happens after you’ve reached the milestone you spent years chasing.

Partners:

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Ben Askins didn’t expect his next big chapter to come from LinkedIn posts, but it did. After selling his first business in 2021 and being locked out of new ventures during his earnout, he turned his focus to storytelling online. One post about a bad recruitment experience went viral, sparking a flood of stories from employees around the world and revealing a universal truth: bad bosses are everywhere.

In this episode, Ben shares what he’s learned from more than 200,000 workplace stories, why most managers are “accidental,” and the practical lessons every leader can apply to build stronger, happier, and more productive teams. From early mistakes in leadership to the strategies that really drive culture, his journey shows how honesty, clarity, and self-awareness can transform both businesses and people.

It’s a candid conversation about management done right, and the hidden cost when it’s done badly.

Partners:

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Journalist Karen Hao has spent years exposing the realities of the world’s most powerful AI labs. Her 2019 embed at OpenAI was a turning point, what she saw behind closed doors didn’t always match the public mission, and the lack of clear answers from leadership sparked a deeper skepticism that would shape her reporting.

In this episode, Karen unpacks the unexpected story of how a nonprofit AI lab evolved into a global powerhouse, the behind-the-scenes dynamics of talent, capital, and ideology that fueled its rise, and the risks of allowing unchecked tech empires to dictate the future. She also reveals the unexpected shifts, from Microsoft’s influence to the culture inside OpenAI.

It’s a revealing look at power, technology, and the choices we face in building the future.

Partners:

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What happens when a teenager takes control of her own brand? For JoJo Siwa, it meant signing a deal that wasn’t perfect, betting on herself anyway, and later realizing the power of knowing her worth.

In this episode, JoJo shares how a simple bow became a global phenomenon, the challenges of rebranding from child star to seasoned entertainer, and the behind-the-scenes lessons of navigating major partnerships while staying true to herself.

It’s a candid look at choices, authenticity, and learning when to take risks, and when to renegotiate the terms of your own success.

Partners:

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Since he was a teenager, Jake has kept notebooks and diaries, now for the first time he opens them up to discuss his thoughts on business and life in real-time. He reads candid notes he's made from recent interviews, events from his life and interactions with friends, colleagues and business leaders to help unpack the moments of inspiration and thought provoking advice that happen everyday.

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What does it take to guide companies through billion-dollar transformations, and then walk away in search of something new? Jeff Dodds has done just that.

From leading Virgin Media through a $44 billion merger in the middle of lockdown, to stepping into the fast-paced world of motorsport, Jeff’s career is defined by bold pivots, unexpected opportunities, and the courage to admit when it’s time for change.

In this episode, he shares the leadership lessons that shaped him, from the power of direct feedback and diverse teams to the art of knowing what really matters, and why the future of business will be built on curiosity, empathy, and shared wins.

It’s a conversation about curiosity, courage, and creating cultures where people, and ideas, can thrive.

Partners:

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What will the future really look like—and how can we prepare for it?

In this episode, Nick Foster, ex-Head of Design at Google X, takes us behind the scenes of moonshot projects and shares how to think rigorously about the future, from everyday life to big industries. He explains why AI is just one piece of the puzzle, and why understanding the trends, behaviors, and possibilities shaping tomorrow is more important than ever.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

* How to think about the future beyond hype and predictions

* Why the “mundane future” matters more than flashy sci-fi ideas

* The frameworks that help you make better decisions today for tomorrow

* How AI and other technologies will shape industries and daily life

* Simple ways to build a culture of forward-thinking in your work or business

Whether you’re a business leader, innovator, or just curious about what’s next, this conversation will help you see the future more clearly—and act on it confidently.

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As co-founder and former CEO of Deciem, Nicola Kilner helped build one of the most disruptive beauty companies of the last decade, but the journey was far from straightforward.

In this episode, Nicola shares the career-defining advice she received from Estée Lauder’s Leonard Lauder, the bold decision to boycott Black Friday in favor of values over sales, and the unexpected rise of The Ordinary, a brand that went from retail rejection to global sensation. She also reflects on navigating the turbulence of co-founder Brandon Truaxe’s mental health crisis, stepping down to focus on family, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, authenticity, and building brands that truly last.

It’s a story of persistence, purpose, and the power of putting people and principles at the center of business.

Partners:

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This week Jake explores how failure is an instrument for success, how to reframe those who doubted you as a collaborator and why writing a "To Don't" list is just as important as a "To Do" list.

He also answers a question from a listener, struggling with a new promotion at work and offers a candid exploration of times that Jake has struggled to show how they can shift their mindset around imposter syndrome - and how you can to.

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Emily Frazer’s path to becoming a leading force in live sports events was anything but traditional. Without a university degree and after jobs ranging from gymnastics coach to estate agent, she found herself at Matchroom, where a sudden promotion into event direction pushed her to grow fast and take on big responsibilities.

In this episode, Emily shares candid reflections on battling imposter syndrome, the behind-the-scenes innovations that helped elevate events like the Mosconi Cup to global recognition, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership, adaptability, and building loyal teams in a male-dominated industry.

It’s a story of relentlessness, unexpected opportunities, and the power of turning unconventional beginnings into extraordinary impact.

---

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This week I open my notebook on three lessons that hit hard;

• Why the people you surround yourself with are the invisible architects of your life
• How every success story begins with being bad at something
• Why holding steady in the messy middle is where most people give up but the real growth begins.

I share what I learned from sitting down with the founders of Whoop and EasyJet (episodes coming soon), two people who built billion-dollar businesses by staying the course when it looked like they were failing. If you’ve ever doubted your circle, your progress, or your path, this one’s for you.

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Rapper, entrepreneur, and co-founder of Nala’s Baby, Krept has built his success on more than music, it’s been about discipline, ownership, and learning from failure.

In this episode, Krept opens up about the make-or-break decision to turn down a major private equity deal and focus on building his brand at home before going global, the setbacks that nearly derailed product launches, and the lessons he’s learned about leadership, trust, and perseverance.

He also shares how building the right team, listening to mentors, and staying authentic helped transform early struggles into sustainable success.

It’s a story of resilience, purpose, and what it really takes to build something that lasts, on your own terms.

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

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PARTNERS

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This week in my notebook, I’ve been thinking about what it really means to live well — not just to achieve, but to feel okay while doing it.

Somewhere along the way, it’s easy to confuse progress with pressure, and ambition with never feeling enough.

In this episode, I unpack a few lessons that stopped me in my tracks this week — about how we measure success, what we give up in the chase for it, and how to build a life that feels as good as it looks.

If you’ve ever found yourself pushing for the next goal, comparing your progress, or wondering why the wins don’t always feel like wins — this one’s for you.

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This week, I open my notebook to share how walking away from TV changed my life — and why ego nearly cost me purpose. I break down what’s really driving the future of podcasting, and the one thing that matters more than audience size: trust.

Plus, a reminder that who you choose to walk with will define how far you go.

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As founder and CEO of WHOOP, Will Ahmed turned a college dorm room idea into one of the most influential performance technology companies in the world.

In this episode, Will shares the leap of faith that started it all, the early rejections that tested his resolve, and the pivotal decision to pivot WHOOP from a hardware company to a subscription model, transforming its future. 

He also reveals how authentic partnerships, a growth mindset, and a relentless focus on mission helped turn setbacks into breakthroughs and build a brand trusted by elite athletes and everyday users alike.

It’s a story of conviction, adaptation, and the discipline required to build something meaningful from the ground up.

Partners:

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This week in my notebook, I’ve been thinking about time — how quickly it moves, and how much of life we spend rushing to catch up with it.

In this episode, I talk about rediscovering patience, the difference between recreation and re-creation, and the reminder that anything above zero compounds.

If you’ve ever felt like life is moving too fast, like you’re running out of time, or like chaos has become your normal — this one’s for you. It’s about trusting the future again, letting go of the need to control every outcome, and remembering that all will be well.

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As a digital pioneer across companies like Amazon, McDonald’s, and Volvo, Atif Raffiq has built a career turning legacy brands into innovation powerhouses.

In this episode, Atif shares how his first month at McDonald’s led to a billion-dollar digital transformation, the culture shock of bringing a Silicon Valley mindset into a 60-year-old global icon, and the behind-the-scenes moments that reshaped how the company connects with 100 million customers a day. 

He also reflects on the lessons learned from leading through resistance, building systems that outlast any one leader, and why true transformation starts with people, not technology.

It’s a story of cultural reinvention, courageous leadership, and how curiosity and collaboration can drive change on a global scale.

Partners: 

IFS - award-winning Asset & Service Management software

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As founder of Nails Inc., Thea Green built one of the UK’s most successful beauty brands by combining creativity with integrity, and knowing when to pivot.

In this episode, Thea shares the defining moment she decided to close the last nail bar and shift fully to retail, the lessons learned from turning down early acquisition offers, and the challenge of letting go after selling the business to find new purpose. She also reflects on the power of honesty and apologising in leadership, the importance of timing, and why adaptability and empathy are the true foundations of lasting success.

It’s a story about courage, evolution, and staying true to your values while navigating change at every stage of business.

Partners:

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In this week's notebook, I talk about the invisible force that quietly decides the quality of every relationship, the surprising link between doing the hard things you’d rather avoid and living a longer, calmer life, and the truth about time — how we use it, and how it completely changed my view on discipline and what’s truly important.

If any part of you feels stuck, stretched, or short on motivation, this episode will give you something real to work with. Press play and discover the three lessons that have already changed mine.

Pre-order our brand new book Micro-Habits and use code MICROHABITS26 for 25% off before the launch on 1st January. https://hppod.co/472Og7q

Book Recommendation: Unlearning Masculinity by Cassandra Andrews https://amzn.eu/d/dqPXW2l

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How does someone go from tinkering with computers in a small Manchester bedroom to leading Microsoft UK’s AI revolution? For Darren Hardman, it began with curiosity, hard work, and a lesson that changed his outlook forever: success isn’t about working more hours, it’s about working with purpose.

In this episode, Darren shares the defining moments that shaped his leadership journey, from early sacrifices and personal turning points to the bold initiatives driving Microsoft’s role in making the UK an AI superpower. He offers a candid look behind the scenes at what it takes to lead through rapid technological change, empower teams, and build a culture of learning and innovation.

It’s a story about balance, belief, and how embracing change can transform both a career and an entire industry.

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In this week's notebook, I talk about the fear I felt going into an interview with footballing superstar Robert Lewandowski, why we should enjoy our struggles, celebrate ourselves, and actively seek fear, not run from it.

If you're currently feeling paralysed by fear or dissatisfied with everyday life, this episode's here to remind you that life's not meant to be perfect.

Be proud of yourself and celebrate your successes, no matter how small, because everything above zero compounds.

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Sir Stelios Haji-Ioannou joins us from Monaco to revisit the moment easyJet was created, beginning with the 1994 launch, where he persuaded his father to back his idea for a new kind of airline. He reflects on the early years of bold marketing stunts, legal battles with British Airways, and a fierce rivalry with Ryanair that pushed him to keep costs low, move fast and build a brand the public instantly recognised.

Stelios speaks openly about the pressure of running a young airline, the mistakes that almost derailed it, and the key decisions that shaped its future, including adopting the internet early and expanding the "easy" name into hundreds of businesses. He also shares how this success now fuels his philanthropic mission.

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In this week's notebook I discuss the importance of not just finding your why, but acting on it.

I share the unexpected panic I felt travelling back from my interview with Robert Lewandowski because of the thought I might miss my flight home.

That rising fear revealed something important: when your purpose shifts, your reactions shift too. For me, family has become my why, and anything that pulls me away from it hits hard.

If you’ve been feeling stretched, overwhelmed, or out of alignment, this episode is a reminder that purpose isn’t a luxury — it’s your anchor. When you know your why, the world settles.

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From delivering coffees at 14 to becoming CEO of Matchroom Boxing, Frank Smith has lived every side of the fight game.

In this episode, Frank reflects on the defining moments that shaped his career, from his first “final warning” as a teenager to leading global events watched by millions. He shares the unexpected twists behind major fights like Anthony Joshua vs. Jake Paul, the lessons learned from high-stakes negotiations, and why ego is the enemy of progress. 

Frank also offers an inside look at the business risks behind boxing’s biggest nights and how staying grounded, adaptable, and relentlessly positive helped him rise through the ranks.

It’s a story about graft, growth, and learning to fight smart, both in and outside the ring.

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From Top Gear to The Grand Tour and Clarkson’s Farm, Andy Wilman has spent decades redefining what car television can be, and learning a few hard lessons along the way.

In this episode, Andy opens up about the high-stakes Amazon deal that launched The Grand Tour, the legal and creative gymnastics of building something “like Top Gear, but not Top Gear,” and the spontaneous tent idea that became the show’s trademark. He reflects on the behind-the-scenes chaos, the unexpected magic of Clarkson’s Farm, and the times they got it wrong, and what those moments taught him about humility, persistence, and trusting your instincts.

It’s a candid look at creativity under pressure, the fine line between chaos and genius, and how taking risks (and a few punches) can lead to something unforgettable.

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Andy’s book ‘Mr Wilman’s Motoring Adventure’ is out now and available to purchase - https://hppod.co/mr-wilmans-motoring-adventure-clarkson 

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Before it became a worldwide holiday staple, The Elf on the Shelf was simply a Pitts family tradition, one that Christa Pitts helped turn into a cultural phenomenon through grit, creativity, and unshakeable belief.

In this episode, Christa looks back on the early days of being rejected by every publisher, the decision to self-publish with her family’s savings on the line, and the scrappy marketing tactics that brought their little elf to life in homes across America.

She reveals the unexpected celebrity moment that sent the brand soaring, the battles to protect their idea from copycats, and the hard lessons learned while scaling a fast-growing company. Christa also opens up about leading through personal loss, staying true to the brand’s values, and building a culture that embraces experimentation, heart, and the occasional failure.

It’s a conversation about family, courage, and the magic that happens when you bet on your own story, no matter how many times you hear “no.”

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#JakeHumphrey #business #highperformance

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What happens when a career built on spreadsheets collides with a gut-level belief in great food? John Eckbert’s path to becoming CEO of Five Guys is anything but conventional, and it nearly didn’t happen at all.

In this conversation, John unpacks the improbable steps that took him from banking into the heart of one of the world’s most recognisable fast-casual brands. He shares how a single moment of curiosity turned into a bold move, the early discussions that defined Five Guys’ future, and the leadership calls made long before success was obvious. John also reveals the behind-the-scenes thinking that shaped the company’s culture, expansion strategy, and refusal to compromise on what matters most.

This episode explores what it really takes to switch lanes at the highest level, why patience can be a competitive advantage, and how building something people genuinely care about often means saying no far more than yes.

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