James Reed: all about business

Could the answer to a more sustainable handbag or wallet lie at the bottom of your pint glass?In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Dr. Edward "TJ" Mitchell, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Arda Biomaterials, a London-based startup redefining the future of leather. Using cutting-edge technology, Arda transforms waste grain from brewers and distillers into sustainable, animal-, and plastic-free leather alternatives that are poised to disrupt the fashion and materials industries.TJ shares his remarkable journey from a PhD in radioactive waste storage to the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led to founding Arda Biomaterials, meeting his co-founder, and the bold decision to pivot from food-based protein products to sustainable materials. TJ also talks about the challenges of scaling a deep tech startup, from overcoming scientific and engineering hurdles, to building a team, and navigating the complexities of fundraising.TJ reflects on the importance of networking and immersing yourself in the right communities, the art of storytelling as an entrepreneur, and why asking for advice often leads to unexpected opportunities.Timestamps02:39 From PhD research to entrepreneurship06:22 Discovering the value of waste grain12:15 Pivoting from food-based protein to leather alternatives14:19 Using chemistry to mimic collagen for sustainable leather20:33 The science behind transforming waste into leather-like materials21:20 Why communication and storytelling are key for entrepreneurs24:47 Advice for scientists: finding co-founders and startup programs35:00 The future of plastic-free, animal-free materials in fashion39:49 Arda Biomaterials’ vision as a waste transformation company42:13 Scaling globally and creating local production facilitiesFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow TJ Mitchell on LinkedInFind out more about Arda Biomaterials hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you turn a single idea into a global brand and keep winning in an industry where most products fade away?In this episode of all about business, James sits down with Steve Perez, founder of Global Brands, to unpack the reality behind building one of the UK’s most successful drinks businesses from scratch.Steve shares how he identified a gap in the market early on, and backed his instincts to create products that would resonate with a new generation of consumers, most notably the breakout success of VK. But Steve’s story isn’t just about spotting an opportunity, it’s about the discipline required to execute, the risks that come with backing your own judgement, and the resilience needed to navigate inevitable setbacks along the way.The conversation goes deeper into what actually drives success in a highly competitive, fast-moving industry. Steve explains why understanding your customer better than anyone else is a non-negotiable, how to stay relevant as trends shift, and how many businesses fail not because of bad ideas, but because of poor execution.He also reflects on leadership as a business scale. From making tough commercial decisions under pressure, to building a team you can trust, and knowing when to adapt, versus when to stay the course.This is a grounded, experience-led conversation about entrepreneurship without the fluff that covers risk, resilience, execution, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.Timestamps02:56 From pub manager to van hustle08:43 Business bust and rock bottom14:33 Inventing VK 25:16 Keep your equity keep control38:27 Building a hotel empire43:36 High Court tax challenge57:34 Multi-generational mindsetFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Steve Perez on LinkedInFind out more Global Brands and VKAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Why do some candidates succeed in interviews while others fail, even with the same experience?In this episode of all about business, James speaks with Will Moore, Senior Area Manager at Reed Specialist Recruitment, about how to effectively prepare for a job interview.With more than a decade of experience in recruitment, Will shares practical advice on how candidates can approach interviews with confidence and structure. He explains the four key steps to interview preparation, from researching the company and reviewing the job description, to understanding the people you’ll be meeting, and preparing examples from your own experience.The conversation also explores how candidates can structure answers clearly and communicate their achievements with confidence. Will highlights why using facts and measurable results is far more effective than exaggeration, and how practising answers out loud can dramatically improve performance on the day.They also discuss some of the most common mistakes candidates make; asking vague questions that reveal a lack of research, failing to prepare real examples of past work, and overlooking the importance of preparation for virtual interviews, where technology, environment, and presentation still matter.Whether you're preparing for your first interview, or your next career move, this episode offers practical insights to help you present yourself clearly, confidently, and authentically.Timestamps01:12 Four step interview prep06:26 Nailing tell me about you08:59 STAR method14:41 Handling weaknesses questions19:16 Practice and common mistakesFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

What is the biggest mistake people make when writing a CV? And how can yours land you an interview in 7 seconds?In this episode of All About Business, James is joined by Libby White, Senior Consultant at Reed specialising in marketing, communications, PR and design recruitment.While some people claim the CV is becoming outdated, Libby explains why it remains a critical tool for getting interviews and how small changes can dramatically improve your chances of standing out.Drawing on her experience screening CVs every day, Libby shares practical advice on how candidates can present their experience more effectively, highlight measurable achievements, and tailor their CV for different roles.From structuring your professional summary to avoiding common mistakes (including over-reliance on AI-generated CVs), this episode is packed with actionable tips for job seekers at every stage of their career.Follow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

What’s the difference between chasing the next job and building a long-term career?In this episode of All About Business Shorts, James Reed speaks with Sophie Clarke, recruitment expert at Reed, about how professionals can think more strategically about their careers.Sophie explains why focusing only on job titles or salary increases can sometimes distract from long-term career growth. Instead, she argues that understanding your strengths, motivations, and the skills you want to develop is key to making smarter career decisions.The conversation explores how building a strong personal reputation — through reliability, communication, and trust — can open doors throughout your career. Sophie also shares why asking better questions when considering new opportunities, and thinking beyond the immediate job move, can help professionals make decisions that compound over time.This is a practical discussion about career strategy, personal brand, and making job moves that support long-term professional growth.Timestamps01:37 Progression not job hopping04:44 CV turnoffs and AI08:35 Numbers beat responsibilities13:15 Formatting and what to remove17:29 Hobbies out systems in21:44 Junior CVs and early experienceFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you build world-class standards in hospitality and then lead at the highest level of business?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Stuart Gillies, chef, restaurateur, and former CEO of the Gordon Ramsay Group, about building excellence in hospitality and leading through growth, crisis, and reinvention.Stuart shares his journey from starting out in kitchens through international experience in Sweden, Italy, and New York, to becoming a senior leader at the Gordon Ramsay Group. He reflects on the discipline, attention to detail, and resilience he developed early in his career, and how those lessons shaped his transition from chef to CEO during one of the toughest periods in hospitality.The conversation explores leadership under pressure, making hard commercial decisions, closing and opening businesses, and why devolving responsibility builds stronger teams. Stuart also shares what it’s really like to run a family hospitality business with his wife Cecilia, navigating COVID as founders, and why consistency, standards, and purpose matter more than ever in building a business that lasts.A grounded conversation about leadership, craftsmanship, and building high-performance teams in one of the toughest industries in business.Timestamps00:00 Start: Stuart Gillies Former CEO Gordon Ramsay Group & Restaurateur04:30 Early Career Journey: YTS Scheme to International Kitchen Experience Sweden Italy15:43 New York Daniel Restaurant: Career Catalyst Working With Top French Chefs22:17 CEO Transition: Leading Gordon Ramsay Group Business Strategy & Restaurant Decisions36:43 COVID Challenge: Launching Bank House Chislehurst & Number Eight Sevenoaks38:30 Family Business Success: Working With Wife Cecilia & Teaching Kids Work Ethic50:00 Couple Business Partnership Advice: Building Strong Marriage Before Business Venture59:00 Leadership Lessons: Comfort Zone Growth Mindset & Future Hospitality VisionFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Stuart Gillies on LinkedIn: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you build a creative agency that cuts through in a crowded, fast-changing media landscape?In this episode of All About Business, James talks with Gregory Nice and Jack Stanton, co-founders of NICE Productions. Together they discuss growing a modern creative agency in the age of social-first content, multi-channel marketing, and AI disruption.Gregory and Jack share how they built NICE Productions from weekend side projects into a London-based creative agency producing campaigns across TV, social, radio, cinema, and out-of-home. They reflect on starting young, balancing creativity with commercial reality, and how long-term client relationships helped them survive industry shocks, from COVID, to strikes, and shifting media budgets.The conversation explores how creative agencies can stand out in a saturated market, why multi-channel campaigns now matter more than single-format ads, and how low-budget, high-impact content can outperform expensive campaigns when it connects culturally. They also discuss the real impact of AI on creative work, why human creativity still matters, and how young people can break into the industry with fewer barriers than ever.This is a candid conversation about building a creative business, staying relevant in a disrupted industry, and creating work that cuts through in a noisy world.Timestamps02:42 Launching Nice Productions08:12 Rebrand to ‘Nice’18:44 Standing out in a crowded market22:05 AI disruption in content37:53 Why big ideas cost big money46:43 Turning virality into new business57:34 Landing big clients01:02:38 How they generate ideasFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Gregory Nice on LinkedInFollow Jack Stanton on LinkedInFind out more NICE Productions hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you turn a bold idea into a national institution that changes lives?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jenifer Rosenberg OBE, entrepreneur in fashion and social impact leader, about building purpose-driven organisations that create lasting change.Jenifer shares her journey from spotting a gap in support for families facing serious illness, to co-founding Heart Cells Foundation and growing it from a kitchen-table startup into a nationally recognised charity. She reflects on navigating funding challenges, building credibility with clinicians and policymakers, and leading through the emotional realities of mission-led work.The conversation explores scaling a purpose-driven organisation sustainably, balancing commercial discipline with social impact, and the importance of governance, partnerships, and long-term strategy. Jenifer also shares lessons from stepping back from founder leadership, earning an OBE, and staying resilient while driving systemic change.A thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship with purpose, leading with conviction, and building something that truly lasts.Timestamps02:18 From post room to senior role08:07 Quality and innovation with Marks & Spencer16:28 Branching out into fashion26:40 The power of innovation30:23 A personal journey with heart failure35:24 Founding the Heart Cells Foundation48:37 Maintaining energy and healthLinksFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Jenifer Rosenberg OBE on LinkedIn: Find out more the Heart Cells Foundation here: Be part of the million job giveaway HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

What if becoming mortgage-free wasn’t about earning more money, but about using what you already spend more intelligently? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jinesh Vora, Founder and CEO of Sprive, the UK fintech app helping homeowners pay off their mortgages faster without changing their lifestyle.Jinesh shares his journey from a 14-year career at Goldman Sachs to fintech founder, shaped by a three-generation family legacy of entrepreneurship. He reflects on leaving a high-paying corporate role, bootstrapping a startup through the pandemic, and building trust with banks and lenders in a highly regulated industry.The conversation explores scaling a fintech responsibly, from angel and venture funding to securing a major TV-for-equity deal with Channel 4. Jinesh also shares candid lessons from pitching on Dragons’ Den, alongside insights on leadership, resilience, AI, and avoiding growth at all costs.This is a practical conversation about financial freedom, fintech innovation, and building a purpose-led business that helps people take control of their money.Timestamps01:49 The birth of Sprive: A mortgage app revolution11:10 Jinesh's entrepreneurial journey and family legacy14:39 The Goldman Sachs experience24:01 Navigating the pandemic and launching Sprive32:09 Networking and angel investors34:11 Dragon's Den experience41:15 Hiring strategies and team building48:49 Future vision and personal goalsFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Jinesh Vohra on LinkedInFind out more about Sprive App hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you build a creative business from scratch and ensure it steadily grows without compromising on quality, craft, or values?In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Penelope Chilvers, English footwear designer and founder of the eponymous luxury brand, and they talk about building a resilient business rooted in craftsmanship, customer closeness, and long-term thinking.Penelope shares her unconventional journey from training as a painter to launching a footwear business in London as a single parent. She reflects on learning her trade from the ground up, building a brand without formal business training, and why necessity — not strategy — drove her early entrepreneurial decisions.Penelope talks about the importance of craftsmanship, materials, long-term supplier relationships, and how staying close to customers has shaped everything from design to retail strategy.James and Penelope discuss growth, from opening stores and expanding internationally, to raising investment and introducing clothing alongside footwear. Penelope shares why steady, organic growth has served her better than chasing trends, how slow fashion has become a competitive advantage, and why durability, purpose, and trust now matter more than ever.This is a thoughtful conversation about learning your craft, respecting the people who help you build, and creating a business designed to last.Timestamps:02:59 From painter to designer07:59 The first big orders15:00 Sustaining quality and craftsmanship22:52 Family and business dynamics29:50 Expanding into the American market35:52 Men's range and iconic products47:58 Slow fashion and ethical productionFollow James Reed on LinkedIn:Follow Penelope Chilvers on LinkedIn: Find out more about Penelope Chilvers store here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you create a modern PR strategy that builds brand relevance and marketing-led businesses able to thrive through cultural and technological change?In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Francesca Gamble, founder of GTN Consultancy, to explore the future of PR, marketing, and business in an AI-driven world.With a career spanning global agencies, luxury fashion brands, and major cultural moments — including Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, and the London 2012 Olympics — Francesca shares her journey from agency leadership to launching her own independent consultancy. She explains what it really takes to build a modern PR and marketing business without hype, awards, or ego, and why so many agencies fail by prioritising image over impact.The conversation dives deep into brand partnerships, celebrity collaborations, and equity-based deals as powerful growth strategies for challenger brands. Francesca breaks down why great products still fail without strong marketing, how cultural relevance directly drives sales, and why results matter far more than industry accolades.Looking ahead, Francesca offers a bold and timely perspective on the future of PR and advertising in the age of AI. As automation accelerates across marketing, media, and communications, she argues that being human, authentic, and culturally aware will become the ultimate competitive advantage. A no-nonsense conversation about entrepreneurship, independence, brand relevance, and building a business that lasts in a rapidly changing world.Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:38 Starting a PR business10:08 The role of PR in modern marketing17:54 Celebrity partnerships and brand collaborations32:28 The importance of flexibility and client relationships42:24 The reality of entrepreneurship51:03 Successful celebrity brand partnerships58:00 The future of PR and female foundersFollow James Reed on LinkedIn: Follow Franscesa Gamble on LinkedIn: Find out more about GTN Consultancy here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

What if the future of food isn’t bigger, faster, and more centralised, but local, decentralised, and community-powered?In this episode of the All About Business podcast, James is joined by Pete Russell, Founder of Ooooby and Co-Founder of DECENT, to explore how technology, ethical entrepreneurship, and optimism can transform the global food system from the ground up.Pete shares his journey from running a highly profitable industrial food business to building one of the UK’s leading local food platforms, connecting independent farmers and producers directly with their communities. The conversation dives deep into the realities of entrepreneurship, scaling purpose-led businesses, and the challenges of building alternatives to industrial food supply chains.A key theme of the episode is steward ownership, a business model that separates profit from control. Pete explains how steward ownership protects mission, prevents mission drift, and ensures long-term impact over short-term returns, offering a compelling alternative to traditional shareholder capitalism.James and Pete also explore the future of commerce and AI, with Pete presenting a bold vision of a shift from the attention economy to the intention economy. As artificial intelligence reshapes how we discover and buy products, Pete argues that traditional marketing and advertising may become obsolete, replaced by systems that prioritise values, trust, and genuine human needs.Timestamps00:00 Intro02:03 Meet Pete Russell: The Visionary Behind Oooby’s Food Revolution03:06 What Is Oooby? Decentralizing the Global Food Supply Chain06:25 Farm-to-Table Logistics: How Oooby Empowers Local Farmers10:12 The 1.9% Disruptor: Why Low-Margin Tech is Saving Small Farms14:45 Debunking the Myth: Why Local Food Costs Less Than Supermarkets19:30 The Awareness Gap: Why Traditional Food Systems Still Dominate27:05 17 Years of Resilience: Pivoting Through Near-Death Business Challenges33:40 The Software Pivot: Solving the Logistics Nightmare of Local Food40:00 Future of Food: AI, Agentic Commerce, and Decentralized Platforms56:15 What wakes you up on a Monday?Follow James Reed on LinkedinFollow Pete Russell on LinkedinFind out more about Oooooby and how to sell local food onlineAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Building a billion-pound business is one thing, but what does it take to scale globally, exit successfully, and inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Richard Harpin, founder of HomeServe, the home emergency repairs and improvements launched in 1993. Richard talks about his journey from early failures to growing a FTSE 100 multinational across the UK, France, Spain, the US, Canada, and Japan that sold for £4.1 billion in 2022.Richard shares how a plumbing insurance model sparked the subscription-based affinity partnerships, the challenges of international expansion, and why copying successful ideas while focusing on execution was key to cracking markets and achieving organic growth.Together they discuss Richard’s post-exit ventures including Growth Partner, Business Leader magazine, and his bestselling book "How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps". The conversation also explores Richard's passion for inspiring breakthroughs, the role of optimism in navigating setbacks, and why doubling the UK's large companies through community-driven support, matters more than ever in a challenging economic landscape.Timestamps01:00 The early struggles and pivots06:42 The breakthrough: Plumbing insurance model17:40 The power of copying and mentorship28:53 Challenges and opportunities for mid-size businesses37:55 Introducing growth partner: investment in retail48:10 The not-to-do list for entrepreneurs01:02:29 Recruitment: Hiring your replacementFollow James Reed on LinkedinFollow Richard Harpin on LinkedinBuy Richard’s book “How to Make a Billion in Nine Steps”All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Winning Olympic gold is one of the highest achievements in sport, but what are the skills that you can apply to build an elite team in your business?In this episode of All About Business, James meets Adrian Moorhouse MBE, three-time Olympian and gold medalist. Adrian talks about his journey from the pool to the boardroom, exploring big hairy audacious goals (BHAGs), the power of curiosity, and heart-driven leadership in challenging times, and why mindset, meaning, and community matter more than ever for sustained success in sport and business.Adrian discusses his entrepreneurial transition, launching Lane Four in 1995, growing it through high-performance culture and client impact, and navigating its sale to EY in 2021, while confronting common entrepreneur pitfalls. He also shares how escaping school bullying through swimming ignited his drive and why choices over sacrifices defined his path.Timestamps01:20 Transition to business04:44 Challenges and learnings07:58 Creating a winning team12:41 Resilience and focus techniques17:16 From athlete to entrepreneur32:30 Navigating the 2008 financial crisis36:46 Mentoring and leadership insights48:53 The intersection of sports and business57:09 The importance of curiosity in leadershipFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Adrian Moorhouse on LinkedinFind out more about The Tom Dean Swim SchoolAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Building a career in television is one thing, but what does it really take to produce global hits like The Crown and Outlander while building and scaling a production empire?In this episode of 'All About Business,' James speaks with Andy Harries, co-founder and CEO of Left Bank Pictures. Together they discuss Andy's 50-year journey from a promotion scriptwriter at Granada Television, to launching his own company, selling it to Sony, and navigating the streaming revolution.Andy explains how being rejected at 26 became the fuel for his ambition, how his early documentary work took him around the world, and what he learned directing cultural icons including the Sex Pistols, Malcolm McLaren, and Truman Capote. The conversation dives into the business of creativity, including the high stakes Netflix pitch that led to a 100 million pound deal for The Crown, what global streamers look for when backing premium drama, and how British television has scaled to a global audience.Andy also reflects on his transition into an executive chairman role, mentoring the next generation of talent, and why protecting British creativity and a strong BBC matters more than ever.Timestamps02:26 Journey through Granada06:02 Transition to comedy and drama09:34 The Queen and Prime Suspect12:47 Founding Left Bank Pictures39:35 Reaching out to Ken Braner50:17 The Crown and Netflix partnership01:04:35 Transitioning roles and future projectsFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out more about Left Bank Picture and Andy HarrisAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Highclere Castle, the real Downton Abbey, is one of the most famous houses in the world. But what does it really take to run it as a modern business?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Fiona, Lady Carnarvon, custodian of Highclere Castle, about managing a 1,300-year-old heritage estate with roots dating back to 749 AD. She shares how Downton Abbey transformed Highclere’s global profile, what it is like to live and work alongside a major film production, and how the castle evolved into a year-round destination.Lady Carnarvon discusses her entrepreneurial approach, from Christmas events and behind-the-scenes tours to virtual experiences, bestselling books, and Highclere Castle Gin, while confronting the hard economic realities of British farming and long-term stewardship.The conversation also explores Highclere’s ghost stories, its sense of community, and why heritage, kindness, and authenticity matter more than ever in a changing world.Timecodes04:29 Christmas at Highclere09:56 Tutankhamun and Downton Abbey18:41 Challenges of modern farming27:11 Ghost stories and blessings36:45 The mysterious death of Lord Carnarvon43:38 The success of Highclere Castle Gin48:03 Building a brand and community56:43 Final thoughts and future plansFollow James Reed on Linkedin:Find out more about Lady Carnarvon and Highclere Castle:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more hereThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Some of the biggest global businesses started the same way: someone spotted an opportunity early- and then chose the right partner.In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with serial venture builder James McHugh, founder and chairman of Tquila. James reveals the “build-operate-transfer” playbook behind multiple eight-figure exits and how he’s now riding the AI wave with agentic systems and post-keyboard CRMs.He also  shares how he spotted the Salesforce gap in Europe in 2010, repeatedly building (and exiting) high-growth tech-services including joint ventures with Salesforce, ServiceNow and now AI leaders like Anthropic and you.com. A candid conversation on scaling fast, choosing truth-seeking AI, why governments are dangerously unprepared for mass unemployment, and what abundance on the other side might actually look like.Timecodes02:31 The Salesforce Opportunity: Building a Business in Europe05:21 The tquila Story: Naming and Early Success08:29 The Role of Partnerships in Business Success11:13 AI and the Future: Opportunities and Challenges23:22 The Impact of AI on Employment and Society33:55 The Future of AI and Human Values38:45 Driverless Cars and the Future of Transportation47:04 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Society49:15 The Future of Human Longevity with AIFollow James Reed on Linkedin: Follow James McHugh on LinkedIn: Find out more about tquila: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more hereThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How do you build a culture where risk-taking is celebrated, bureaucracy is banished and everyone thinks like an entrepreneur? In this episode, James is joined by Chris Hulatt, Co-founder of Octopus Group, a multi-billion-pound investment and energy business that started in a living room and grew into a global force spanning fund management, renewable energy and technology. Chris shares how Octopus went from backing UK startups to creating Octopus Energy, now valued at $9 billion, and why initiatives like Springboard are helping employees become founders themselves. We talk about how to make fast decisions without perfect data, why bureaucracy kills creativity and what it really takes to scale up without losing your entrepreneurial spark.Timecodes:02:43 - Octopus Energy: The Startup Story09:16 - The Importance of Financial Literacy12:21 - Octopus Group Funds & Investment Approach17:21 - Culture of Entrepreneurship at Octopus21:40 - The Springboard Scheme for New Ventures25:08 - Success Stories & Learning from Failure28:44 - Barriers to Entrepreneurship in the UK31:13 - Octopus Group’s Shared Purpose34:05 - Decision Making & Avoiding Bureaucracy41:05 - Customer-First Philosophy44:05 - The Future of Octopus GroupDonate to the BigGive Christmas challenge NOW!Follow James Reed on LinkedinFollow Chriss Hulatt on LinkedIn Find out more about Octopus Group All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more hereThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Building a career in food is one thing - but what does it really take to become one of the UKs most famous chefs? In this episode of 'All About Business,' James Reed speaks with renowned British chef Tom Carriage, exploring Tom’s journey from washing dishes in small kitchens to becoming a Michelin-starred chef and a successful business owner with a portfolio of restaurants. Tom discusses his approach to leadership, the ethos behind mentoring young professionals, and his thoughts on balancing passion with business acumen. They also delve into Tom’s personal transformation, including his significant weight loss and sobriety, and discuss the broader challenges facing the hospitality industry, including taxation and workforce management. Timestamps00:00 - Introduction02:40- Early career and challenges08:52 Building a culinary empire13:10 Philosophy and success17:11 Mentorship and team building27:18 Journey to sobriety31:29 Embracing neurodiversity in the kitchen40:52 Challenges in the hospitality industry47:16 Future plans and reflectionsDonate to the BigGive Christmas challenge NOW!Follow James Reed on LinkedinVisit Tom Kerridge's website to learn more about his food, venues, books and other venturesAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more hereThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

How can businesses gain a true understanding of what drives customer decisions? And how can science be applied to create marketing that not only feels deeply human but also delivers measurable results?Today on All About Business, James is Raphy March, Managing Director at Cowry Consulting, a pioneer in combining behavioral science with AI to help global brands like Coca-Cola, EasyJet, and Sky, influence behavior at scale. They explore practical insights on building human-centered AI strategies, the ethics of shaping customer experiences, and how entrepreneurs can use data and psychology to stand out, scale, and grow with purpose.Timecodes:02:16 Introduction to Raphy March and Cowrie Consulting08:27 The Nudge Unit and Government Applications09:08 Behavioral Science in the Private Sector17:53 Case Study: Keep Britain Tidy26:51 Ethics in Behavioral Science29:31 Practical Applications of Behavioral Science33:37 Using Physical Evidence to Justify a Pay Rise36:09 Improving Customer Retention at Sky43:50 Behavioral Science in Brand Perception49:16 The Role of AI in Behavioral Science01:07:02 Future of Behavioral Science and AISign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOWBe part of the million job giveaway HERE Follow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Raphy March on LinkedIn Find out more about Cowry Consulting All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Being successful in hospitality is incredibly tough. But how do you keep a focus on quality and authenticity whilst expanding into multiple new locations? In this episode of All About Business, James is joined by Sir Rocco Forte, titan of the luxury hospitality and hotel industry. They explore his incredible journey as an entrepreneur within a family whose history in hospitality spans over a century.They also delve into how he has prioritised community impact in his work as well as maintaining a family-oriented approach to make something special that lasts.Timecodes:02:23 Building Iconic Hotels09:43 The Forte Family Legacy11:47 Challenges and Triumphs in Business21:46 Expanding the Hotel Empire38:54 Family Involvement in the Business43:53 Leadership and Decision Making01:00:25 Economic Views and Government PoliciesSign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOWBe part of the million job giveaway HERE Follow James Reed on LinkedInFind out more about Sir Rocco Forte and Forte Hotels hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Socialism doesn’t work. Hyper-capitalism doesn’t work. Is this the answer?What happens when the DNA of a corporation changes?In this episode of 'All About Business', Alex interviews the usual host, James Reed, about his new book, 'Karma Capitalism.' The discussion revolves around the concept of Karma Capitalism, which James defines as a people-centric variant of capitalism where companies, known as Philanthropy Companies or 'Philcos,' allocate at least 10% of their shares to a charitable foundation.James shares personal experiences, including a life-changing accident, that catalyzed his belief in businesses having a purpose beyond profit. He outlines the benefits of this business model, such as improved longevity, increased profitability, and enhanced corporate citizenship.The conversation also touches on the challenges in current capitalism, the limitations of ESG, and the practical steps for companies to become Philanthropy Companies. James emphasises the potential for this philosophy to create a significant positive impact on business and society.ITimecodes:03:45 The wake-up fall story12:01 The Big Give and philanthropy17:14 The benefits of being a Philco22:16 Legacy and longevity of Philcos28:55 Examples of successful karma capitalism31:15 How to transition to a Philco34:59 The impact of Philco on business47:15 Challenges and opportunities for family businesses51:09 Final thoughts and reflectionsSign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOWBe part of the million job giveaway HERE Check out PhilCo’s website: Check out BigGive’s website: Buy ‘Karma Capitalism’ book: Follow James Reed on LinkedIn: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

The question is...are you a faithful, or are you a traitor?Television is something we all enjoy. But few of us get to see how the shows we love actually come to life and why some of them grip the nation in what can only be described as a phenomenon. Today on All About Business, James is joined by Stephen Lambert OBE. Stephen is a producer and founder of Studio Lambert, the production company behind some of the UK’s most successful shows like The Traitors, Gogglebox, Squid Game: The Challenge and Race Across the World. In this episode, they explore how Stephen built the UK’s most successful independent production company, what goes into producing formats that connect with audiences around the world, and why encouraging risk-taking and innovation is so important in TV. Timecodes:00:00 Introduction01:09 How Stephen Lambert Started His Career03:27 The Evolution of the TV Business20:00 Studio Lambert – Sued by Michael Jackson20:50 Undercover Boss25:51 Gogglebox29:02 Celebrity Traitors35:08 Celebrity Race Across the World38:34 Squid Game: The Challenge42:48 Confidentiality – Avoiding Leaks & Spoilers47:09 How to Find Work in Television55:28 Developing a Show1:01:05 The Future of Unscripted Television1:08:43 Interview roundSign up to your 7 day trial for Reed.ai NOWBe part of the million job giveaway HERE Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Is it possible to be a highly successful entrepreneur without compromising your commitment to customers, staff, and society?In this episode of All About Business, we’re joined by John Spiers, entrepreneur, philanthropist, veteran of the wealth management industry, and Chairman of EQ Investors, one of the UK’s leading B Corporations. John shares why he returned to the sector to found EQ Investors, how he deliberately built its culture around putting the client first, and why the bottom line will look after itself if you do things correctly.He reveals the unique structure of EQ Investors, with a foundation owning a quarter of the shares, giving clients and staff confidence in the company’s long-term stability and purpose. This purpose-led structure earned the company the highest B Corp score in the UK. John also shares his critique of shareholder-focused capitalism and the short-term pressures of private equity, arguing why a long-term, stakeholder-first model creates greater business resilience.John shares his immense knowledge on how to be an effective philanthropist, explains the creation of his platform, Giving Is Great, and offers vital advice on what to look for, and what not to look for, when assessing a charity’s effectiveness.This episode is packed with valuable insight if you’re an entrepreneur interested in purpose-driven business, investment strategy, and how to build a company that prioritises all its stakeholders for long-term success.Timecodes:03:52 The concept of philanthropy companies05:14 Challenges and benefits of philanthropy companies12:34 The importance of early years and environmental causes21:24 The creation and impact of giving is great33:12 The power of matching donations39:59 Challenges in charity data and impact reporting47:58 Evaluating charity leadership54:17 The rewards of philanthropyCheck out EQ Investors website: Follow EQ Investors on LinkedIn: Start your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

What is the secret to building an iconic brand that resonates with millions of customers on a global scale?In this episode of All About Business, we're joined by Johnnie Boden, founder and creative director of the iconic British clothing brand, Boden. Johnnie shares his unconventional journey from an unfulfilling career in the city, to founding a fashion brand that now generates over £350 million in annual revenue. He talks about how to discover your true passion, and the importance of self-awareness and being honest about what you are good at. He also explains the three-part "magical Venn diagram" from Jim Collins' book, Good to Great, and the impact it had on him.Johnnie also shares the story of the difficult but necessary decision to pivot the business from menswear to the more profitable women's wear, and the importance of listening to your customers. This is a great episode for aspiring entrepreneurs looking to find their true calling, build a brand with clear values, and learn how to make the tough decisions that drive long-term success. Timecodes:02:33 Johnny's early career struggles04:20 The birth of Boden07:56 The importance of passion and self-awareness15:17 The evolution of Boden's Brand25:23 Managing and growing a business30:34 The tough decisions in business36:31 The importance of having a coach41:38 Expanding business in America57:59 The role of AI in fashion59:43 Advice for aspiring entrepreneursCheck out Boden’s website: Follow Boden on LinkedIn: Start your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!Follow James Reed onLinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

How do you balance innovation with ethical responsibility? This week on All About Business, we’re joined by Felix Henderson, Co-founder and COO of Ohchat, a generative AI business that builds "digital twins" of real-world content creators. In this episode, Felix shares his journey of building a business from the ground up, and provides insight into the AI future of adult entertainment and how an early venture in student housing, and a strategic pivot during the pandemic, led to a service-based business which became a launchpad for his current AI-powered tech venture. Is this the new OnlyFans?Felix explains how they are building a generative AI business in the sensitive "spicy content" industry. He addresses the critical and controversial challenges of building a company in this space, discussing how they approach user safety and ethical considerations, and why transparency and accountability as founders are key to their mission.Check out Ohchat’s website: Follow Ohchat on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

How do you build a resilient brand and lasting reputation and control chaos when a PR crisis hits?This week on All About Business, we’re joined by Sarah Woodhouse, co-owner and director at Ambitious PR. With over 25 years of experience in strategic communications, Sarah helps high-growth businesses manage their public image and tell their story with transparency.In this episode, Sarah offers practical lessons on how to communicate with purpose, prepare for unexpected crises, and tailor your message to connect with the audiences that matter most. She discusses the critical differences between marketing and strategic communications, the importance of a founder's personal brand, and how to avoid the "bear traps" of controversy.Sarah also provides insight into crisis management, drawing on real-world examples to demonstrate how to take back control of the narrative. She also explores the impact of AI on how businesses are found and evaluated online, and what entrepreneurs can do to adapt.Links:Check out Ambitious PR’s websiteFollow Ambitious PR on LinkedInStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed GlobalThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo Media

Dame Irene Hays built Hays Travel with her husband John, growing it from a small counter at the back of a babywear shop into the UK’s largest independent travel agency with 512 branches nationwide. Along the way, she navigated major industry shifts, acquired the legendary Thomas Cook brand, founded the Hays Travel Foundation, and built a leading apprenticeship programme that now employs hundreds of apprentices. But this isn't come without massive hurdles, heartbreak and sheer determination to turn crisis into a success. In this week’s episode of All About Business, Irene shares the leadership principles and bold decisions behind her success. She reveals how she scaled without outside investors, why she risked everything to save thousands of jobs at Thomas Cook, and how she rebuilt stronger than ever after COVID-19 brought global travel to a standstill.Irene also explores the “soft infrastructure” behind Hays Travel’s five star customer experience and why apprenticeships and investing in young talent are central to her long term vision.Check out Hays Travel’s websiteFollow Hays Travel on LinkedIn: Start your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Reed's Report: Employer Attitudes to Hiring People with Criminal ConvictionsResettling into society after prison is a huge challenge — especially when employers are reluctant to hire people with a criminal record. Too often, talented individuals are overlooked, leaving skills and potential untapped, and making them far more likely to reoffend. In this episode, we dive into the findings of the latest REED report; "Employer attitudes to employing people with criminal convictions.”, and its findings. The report reveals a concerning trend where one in five employers would not consider a candidate with a conviction at all, and the willingness to hire individuals with criminal records has dropped sharply across various offenses.We’re joined by Alex Head, the owner and founder of Social Pantry, a leading independent catering company known for its work with prison leavers.Alex shares her journey from starting a sandwich delivery service as a teenager, to building Social Pantry into a leading employer of prison leavers in the hospitality industry. She provides practical insight into the successes and challenges of this great work, demonstrating how giving people a second chance can lead to a compelling and persuasive workforce.This is an essential listen for any business leader looking to build a resilient and socially conscious company and challenge the stigma of employing ex-offenders.Timecodes:04:18 Social Pantry's business model and success06:14 Challenges and support for hiring prison leavers13:09 The role of charities and probation services23:39 Employment boards and training opportunities29:58 Empathy and communication in the workplace34:45 Challenges and benefits of hiring prison leavers38:31 Addressing employer hesitations44:06 Success Stories and Future PlansIf you are interested in supporting prison leavers back into employment and joining Social Pantry's working group, please email [email protected] James Reed on LinkedInFollow Alex Head on LinkedinCheck out Social Pantry’s website  Check out Key4Life’s websiteStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Education is changing fast, and the old ways of running learning institutes are no longer working. Philippa De’Ath set out to solve this when she co-founded Arbor Education, a platform designed to shift the focus of teachers away from admin work and back to what matters most: the students.In this week’s episode of All About Business, Philippa shares how she and her co-founder built a mission-driven company that is both profitable and has a significant social impact. She reveals the secrets to scaling in a complex, highly regulated industry, from automating routine tasks with AI, to empowering educators with real-time data and insights.Philippa breaks down what it takes to turn a passion for impact into a sustainable enterprise. She unpacks the challenges of scaling, the importance of listening to end users, and how to keep your purpose at the core while building a business that delivers both explosive growth and positive change.Whether you're starting a company or looking for a mission-driven strategy that actually works, Philippa's journey is packed with practical insights you can borrow and scale.01:03 The Mission and Impact of Arbor Education02:14 Understanding Arbor's Management Information System03:03 The Growth and Success of Arbor Education06:07 The Role of AI and Cloud in Modern Education13:23 Encouraging Entrepreneurship in Schools20:40 Philippa's Journey: From IBM to Founding Schools25:06 Reflecting on the Journey25:32 Building a School from Scratch26:15 Opening the Schools26:43 Challenges and Growth27:59 Founding Arbor Education31:44 Expanding Arbor's Reach34:38 Improving School Efficiency39:55 Future Ambitions and ReflectionsCheck out Arbor Education’s website: Follow Arbor Education on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW! All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Fresh from the holidays? Here are 5 top summer takeaways to get you inspired and ready for September. In this special bonus episode of All about Business, we’ve handpicked some of the most valuable insights from our incredible podcast guests. Since launching last October, we’ve had the privilege of hearing the powerful journeys, lessons, and strategies from some of the most successful entrepreneurs out there. We talk about:Redefining self and creativity with an ADHD diagnosisStaying true to your business venture with no turnover in the first yearsThe future of customer serviceTesting ideas to build a brand carefullyThe link between marketing and cashflow Timecodes: 00:00 - Intro00:27 - Takeaway 6 Alex Partridge05:23 - Takeaway 7 Byron Dixon09:16 - Takeaway 8 Todd Unger12:10 - Takeaway 9 Kiki McDonough15:37 - Takeaway 10 David MitchellLinks:Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: Reed.comStart your 28 day free trial at Reed.ai NOW! This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo Media

Fresh from the holidays? Here are 5 top summer takeaways to get you inspired and ready for September. In this special bonus episode of All about Business, we’ve handpicked some of the most valuable insights from our incredible podcast guests. Since launching last October, we’ve had the privilege of hearing the powerful journeys, lessons, and strategies from some of the most successful entrepreneurs out there. Timecodes:00:00 - Intro00:27 - Takeaway 1 Rob Moore03:20 - Takeaway 2 Neil Clifford08:05 - Takeaway 3 Michelle Kennedy11:18 - Takeaway 4 Nicola Reed14:02 - Takeaway 5 Reggie HeyworthLinks:Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: Reed.comStart your 28 day free trial at Reed.ai NOW! This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo Media

Great business ideas don’t have to be original, they just have to work. Some of the most successful startups are built by borrowing proven concepts, improving them, and executing better. That’s exactly how Toby Burns, founder and CEO of The Silent Disco Company, built a scalable business from a simple idea. In this week’s episode of All About Business, Toby shares how he turned a simple idea into a nationwide brand, built on clever systems, high-volume logistics, and relentless execution that started with a few headphones to now powering thousands of events across the UK.Toby breaks down what it takes to spot scalable business ideas, dominate a niche market, and build a company that runs without you, and also unpacks how to hire smart, stay lean, and keep innovation at the core of sustainable growth.Whether it’s starting a company, or looking for startup strategies that actually work, Toby’s journey is packed with practical insights you can borrow and scale.Links:Check out The Silent Disco Company’s website: Follow The Silent Disco Company on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedIn Start your free trial at Reed.ai NOW! All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Just last week, a Data Analyst was forced to turn to charity to feed his family. Once secure in a stable profession, he is now among the growing number of educated, working professionals whose livelihoods have been eroded by soaring inflation, pushing them into hardship. And the crisis shows no signs of easing.In this week’s episode of All About Business, Mark Game, Co-Founder of The Bread and Butter Thing. They’ve built a business where commercial success and social impact go hand in hand, offering help by rescuing surplus food from major retailers and getting it into the hands of those who need it. Mark’s model of supermarket surplus into consistent, dignified support for thousands of working families proves that you can build a sustainable, logistics-driven business while maintaining dignity and delivering real impact. And your business can partner with them to drive meaningful change.James and Mark explore how poverty has changed, why stigma keeps people silent, and how The Bread and Butter Thing is using smart logistics and scalable systems to meet real human needs, with empathy, efficiency, and long-term impact that goes beyond just food on the table.02:27 The Bread and Butter Thing: Impact and operations07:28 Challenges and solutions in food redistribution09:06 The role of community and volunteers25:38 Mark Game's personal journey32:03 Building management teams35:16 Opening new hubs42:53 Community and confidence53:08 Sustainability and growth59:28 Future goals and reflectionsCheck out The Bread and Butter Thing’s website: Follow The Bread and Butter Thing on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW!All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

AI isn’t the future, it’s already reshaping the way we work, build, and compete. If you’re starting or looking to scale a business right now, understanding how to actually use AI, not just talk about it, could be your biggest edge.In this week’s episode of All About Business, Microsoft UK’s Chief Digital Officer Jed Griffiths shares what he’s seeing at the front lines of AI adoption. From how enterprises are deploying tools like Copilot to what’s coming next in automation and strategy, Jed offers a rare inside look at how the most powerful companies are thinking about the future of work.We break down what AI is really doing under the hood, and why it's more than just a productivity booster. Think smarter decisions, faster execution, new revenue models, and a whole new way to lead teams and run businesses. If you’re building something and want to stay ahead of the curve, or just want to stop feeling behind, this episode gives you a clear, honest view of where AI is going and how to get there first.01:37   Introduction03:20 Developing A Company AI Strategy07:54  What is Microsoft Co-Pilot?09:08 Productivity - Businesses Don't Use The Term Right12:09   2025 The Year of More AI Start Ups14:17    The Valley of Death18:26   Mentoring Startups20:59  Before Microsoft - High Tech Weapons27:37  The Four C's38:24  Will AI Humanize Work?41:07   Will AI Change Recruitment? What Happens to Reed?49:41   Microsoft's Six AI Principles01:03:39 What Gets Jed Up On Monday Mornings?01:04:45 Where Jed Will Be In Five YearsCheck out Microsoft Copilot’s website: Follow Jed Griffiths on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInStart your free trial at Reed.ai NOW! All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Most graduates leave university with a degree but little direction, but how do you figure out what to do with your life, and how do you actually get your foot in the door?In this week’s episode of All About Business, the founder of Bright Network James Uffindell shares the full journey. From his first venture helping students access top universities, to scaling Bright Network into one of the UK's leading platforms for connecting talent with opportunity.From a working-class upbringing in Warwickshire to founding Bright Network, a tech-driven platform used by over a million students, James has spent his career solving the problems he once faced himself.James talks about the crisis that led to their biggest innovation, how they scaled an internship program to 150,000 students, AI, data, understanding Gen Z behavior, and what employers really want when they say they’re looking for passion and resilience. If you’re building a startup, thinking about purpose, or wondering how to turn experience into impact, this episode is for you. James’s story is proof that you don’t have to come from the right family or know the right people, but you do need to listen, adapt, and keep showing up. 02:51 James Uffindell's background and inspiration04:10 Building Bright Network08:04 The importance of internships11:52 Personalisation and data utilization24:05 Impact of AI on job market36:55 The importance of office environments for young professionals39:31 The Bright Network platform and its benefits41:23 AI in recruitment and business growth51:03 Diversity and inclusion in the job market59:38 Future plans and expansionCheck out Bright Network’s website: Follow Bright Network on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Five years. Zero sales. No paycheck. Most people would’ve given up. Byron Dixon didn’t. Instead, he turned his chemistry knowledge and desire for change into Micro-Fresh. A breakthrough technology now used globally to fight mold, bacteria, and bad smells in everything from school shoes to hospital bedding.In this episode of All About Business, we meet Byron Dixon, scientist, entrepreneur, and founder of Micro-Fresh. He shares how he went from a council estate in Leicester to living in Denmark and learning from the Scandinavian way of life, to building a global brand that’s protecting lives, championing sustainability, and changing how retailers think about product longevity.Byron reveals the untold truth about bootstrapping a science business, the resilience it takes to go years without revenue, and how one unexpected call changed everything. He also shares how Micro-Fresh is tackling mold in homes, and why “Home-Fresh” might be his most important innovation yet.If you’ve ever doubted yourself, struggled to stay motivated, or wondered if your idea could really make a difference, this episode is for you.03:16 Why Did Byron Start MicroFresh?07:27 MicroFresh's Sustainability, Waste Reduction10:40 Designing A Non-Hazardous Environmentally Friendly Product18:46 Starting Without Advantages20:09 Open University25:18 Determination & No Fear of Failure26:25 The First Breakthrough28:40 Domino Effect - Competition Doesn't Want To Be Left Out31:00 Big Growth & Market Validation36:51 How Does A CEO Prioritize and Achieve Goals?39:59 Moving to the USA?47:03 Why Young People Feel They Can't Do This49:24 Switching Off The Phone51:00 Boredom as a source of creativity52:42 Putting the Phone and Social Media Away54:54 Top 3 Things We Should Import From Scandinavia59:41 Interview RoundCheck out Microfresh’s websiteFollow Microfresh on LinkedInFollow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

He pushed himself to the limit and lost everything. But that didn’t stop him from coming back stronger than ever and building a global brand from scratch.On this episode of All About Business we meet Matthew Jones, founder of Bread Ahead, who teaches us why the road to success isn’t always smooth. For him it was full of late nights, hard lessons, and a brutal turning point that forced him to rebuild his business and his life from the ground up.When Matthew started making doughnuts at Borough Market, he never expected they’d become a worldwide sensation. The founder of Bread Ahead gives us valuable business insight and shares how he uses Instagram and raw storytelling to grow a devoted following.Bread Ahead is more than a bakery, it's a brand built on resilience, realness, and obsessive attention to flavour.If you’ve ever felt like giving up, or dreamed of starting over. This episode is proof that rock bottom can be the start of something extraordinary.01:59 The rise of Bread Ahead04:21 Innovative flavours and business strategy08:28 Matthew's Culinary Journey19:34 Challenges and recovery25:44 Rebuilding and expanding35:44 The power of social media39:19 Global expansion and future plans43:00 Resilience and learning from failure51:47 The Bread Ahead Academy55:57 The impact of weight loss trends on business57:41 Daily routine and work-life balanceLinksCheck out Bread Ahead’s website: Follow Bread Ahead on LinkedIn: Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: Reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

Nearly 10,000 apps are uploaded to the app store every week, and most of them are ignored. So how do you launch one that becomes a movement?In this episode of All About Business, we’re joined by Michelle Kennedy, founder and CEO of Peanut; the social networking app that has transformed how women connect and help each other through every stage of motherhood.What does it take to walk away from a top executive role and start from scratch? From pitching with nothing but a deck, to raising over $23 million, to building one of the most trusted platforms for women online, listen to Michelle's story and find out.We dive into her strategy for building a matchmaking app that attracts millions of users, how to validate your idea before you build it, and the biggest lessons she’s learned as a female founder.Michelle also opens up about the hardest parts of fundraising, how she built traction without a product, and why not every business should take venture capital. 01:42 Introduction - Michelle Kennedy01:54 Peanut - Social Media App09:09 Raising Money11:34 Advice on Deck, Pitch, Value Proposition15:56 Not Every Business Needs the Venture Capital Path20:04 I Wouldn't Have Done It If I Knew ...24:25 Achieving Critical Mass - The Network Effect27:40 Start Without Building The App33:34 Peanut Start Her Fund for Women36:48 Advice to Family Women on Starting a Business46:59 Curiosity Spawns New Ideas50:10 Why A Book In The Digital Age?54:57 Reed Interview Round - What Gets You Up Monday Morning?56:39 Where Michelle Sees Herself in Five YearsLinksCheck out Peanuts’s website:  Follow Peanut on LinkedIn: Download Peanut app from Google Play: Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: www.reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

Did you know that nearly half the planet still isn’t connected? In many places, getting essential supplies like medicine and food is not only costly, it’s nearly impossible. But what if we were standing on the edge of a breakthrough that could change all of that?On this episode of All About Business, we're joined by Mark Dorey, co-founder and CEO of Straightline Aviation. A pioneering company building hybrid airships designed to deliver cargo to the most remote corners of the world.No roads, no airports - no problems. It’s a bold mission with the power to reshape global logistics and unlock new possibilities for connection, commerce, and care.Mark shares how he turned an ambitious idea into a real business, what to look for in the right business partner, and some of the great lessons he learned when working alongside Richard Branson.01:42   Introduction04:04 How Does an Airship Work?06:55 Why the Early Popularity of Airships?12:04   The Customer Benefits of Airships19:06  Mark's Early Career24:15   Changing Business Models29:51   Future Scale32:07  Learning from Richard Branson34:35  Delegation and Accountability44:49 Pros and Cons of Business Partners47:17   Negotiating and Establishing Business Relationships51:10    Business Opportunity Check List52:43  Establishing Shared Vision and TrustLinks Check out Straightline Aviation’s website:Follow StraightlineAviation on LinkedIn:  Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at www.reed.com This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

We've long been taught that hard work is beneficial for both body and mind, but is that truly the case? Could there be inherent value in slowing down, embracing rest, and allowing ourselves the space to simply be idle?Today on 'All About Business', we meet Tom Hodgkinson, founder and editor-in-chief of The Idler Magazine, a publication that teaches its readers the value of slowing down.In this episode, we learn about the philosophy of idling, challenge traditional beliefs that hard work is inherently good, and explore the idea that true fulfilment, in both life and business, can be found in activities that restore the soul, body, and mind.Tom Hodgkinson founded The Idler Magazine in 1993 together with his friend Gavin Pretor-Pinney. Tom has worked over 20 years in editing and advertising, while also writing several books on the philosophy of idling and its benefits. 00:35 The Puritan work ethic08:03 Tom Hodgkinson's journey12:03 Starting the Idler magazine14:41 The Idler Academy 25:10 Modern work ethic and AI predictions33:30 The bookshop dilemma38:26 Challenges of running a business47:20 The digital pivot50:43 Idler Retreats and experiences52:47 The philosophy of idlingLinks Check out The Idler’s websiteFollow The Idler on LinkedInBuy Business for Bohemians, by Tom HodgkinsonFollow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: https://www.reed.com/?utm_medium=AABshownotesThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk

The UK is ranked last in Europe for bathing water quality. With a small team and limited resources, how have a ‘bunch of surfers from Cornwall’ got parliament to listen and launch a commission on England’s chemical cocktail of stinking sewage?Today’s guest on All About Business is Giles Bristow, CEO of Surfers Against Sewage, a water reform charity that’s been around for over three decades.In this episode, we discuss the dangers of not taking sustainability seriously, how to get the government to sit up and listen, and why community lies at the heart of every charitable brand.Giles Bristow is the CEO of Surfers Against Sewage, a marine conservation charity. Founded in 1990 by a group of surfers in Cornwall, SAS is a powerful environmental movement that addresses a range of ocean-related issues. Giles joined SAS in 2023 and has over 20 years of experience in environmental advocacy. 01:31 Introduction02:22 What are the problems with the UK's oceans?08:32 Recent environmental changes10:41 Why can't water companies solve this?13:38 Time for systemic change16:45 Voters Against Floaters31:31 Giles' advice for effective campaigning36:42 Circular economies38:53 Plastic - it's everywhere40:40 How to lobby - transparency and connections45:52 Just Stop Oil – Are they effective?50:22 Helping businesses become more sustainable53:55 Community and brand59:19 Interview roundLinksCheck out SAS’s websiteFollow Giles on LinkedInFollow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: https://www.reed.com/?utm_medium=AABshownotes. This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

What should you do if you have a brilliant business idea but don’t have the funds to bring it to life? In today’s episode of All About Business, I'm joined by venture capitalist Sasha Kaletsky. Sasha is the co-founder of investment firm Creator Ventures which he started with his cousin Caspar Lee. They have injected millions of dollars into digital tech companies in six short years.  In this episode, we explore how to craft the perfect pitch, how social media is shaping our economy, and how you can use simple AI tools to scale your business quickly.Sasha Kaletsky is the co-founder and Managing Partner at Creator Ventures, a firm that invests in technologies shaping the digital landscape. Before founding Creator Ventures, Sasha gained extensive experience in private equity, technology, and consulting. He started at Bridgepoint in private equity, contributed to the launch and expansion of Uber, and worked as a consultant at the Boston Consulting Group.Timestamps01:58 Introduction02:31 Creator Ventures17:37 Setting up in the United States18:48 CEOs becoming creators20:35 Building companies with AI25:51 The future social landscape29:28 Uber31:12 The network effect34:04 The secret behind a 5-Star passenger rating35:09 What makes a good pitch39:18 How Sasha determines future markets41:12 Presenting to VCs42:39 Due diligence43:20 How to pitch to Sasha43:53 Working with family47:06 When due diligence fails49:15 How companies can make better use of AI54:53 Interview roundLinksSend Sasha your pitch Check out Creator VenturesFollow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: https://www.reed.com/?utm_medium=AABshownotesThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk.

How can you use psychology to quickly go from struggling employee to productivity machine? Today’s guest on All About Business is Octavius Black CBE, the co-founder of MindGym, a corporate learning company that merges behavioural science with leadership development to turn struggling teams into powerhouses of productivity.In this episode, we discuss the psychology behind high performance, why most leadership programmes are a waste of time, and the psychometric test that can predict your team’s future. Octavius Black CBE is the founder and executive chair of MindGym, a company that delivers corporate learning and development programmes through 90-minute training sessions known as workouts.Octavius has also co-authored several books that provide actionable insights and techniques to improve mental fitness and overall wellbeing. In recognition of his contributions to business, Octavius was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in 2023.Timestamps00:41 The origin story of MindGym03:50 The 90-minute learning revolution07:11 Coaching and performance improvement13:24 The importance of belonging and inclusion19:43 HR challenges and innovations27:42 Addressing workplace stress and wellbeing30:15 Five conditions for thriving at work35:39 The role of feedback in the workplace41:54 The importance of emotional self-regulation49:06 The future of AI in talent developmentLinksSign up for MindGymRead Octavius’ bookFollow Octavius Black on LinkedInFollow James Reed on LinkedIn All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at: https://www.reed.com/?utm_medium=AABshownotesThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk 

How would a Jeweller who has become a favourite amongst the royal family start from scratch in 2025?In this episode of All About Business, James interviews Kiki McDonagh, a fifth-generation jeweler renowned for her work with high-profile clients including Princess Diana and the current Princess of Wales. They discuss how she transformed the perception of fine jewellery, making it more accessible and encouraging women to buy for themselves. She shares insights into her design inspiration, the evolution of her brand, and the importance of business strategies such as starting small, maintaining strict financial oversight, and building customer trust. Celebrating 40 years in the industry, Kiki outlines her future plans, including expansion into the American market. Timestamps03:26 Designing with passion and innovation05:21 Building a brand and customer relationships14:32 Navigating the luxury market20:26 The impact of social media and online sales26:36 Advice for aspiring jewellers31:53 Building trust and brand identity38:37 Challenges and opportunities in the jewellery industry49:18 Expanding into the American market53:03 Looking forward: Future plans and reflectionsLinks:Follow James Reed on LinkedInAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more at Reed GlobalVisit Kiki McDonagh hereVisit Kiki McDonagh on InstagramThis podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo Media