Ambitious Minds

Do you know what's really inside your supplements?Daniel Temm is the CEO of Puresport, a leading supplement and hydration brand.In this episode, Dan shares how his background in sports shaped his business and leadership mindset, the importance of community, and the brand's mission to combat quick fixes through quality and authenticity. 00:00 Trailer01:11 Early Life and Sports Journey04:02 Transition from Sports to Business09:38 Founding Pure Sport and Early Challenges10:24 The Impact of COVID-19 on Pure Sport12:44 Building a Brand and Team Dynamics15:07 The Importance of Sports in Business23:45 Pure Sport's Core Values and Mission26:02 The Rise of Pure Sport Run Clubs32:15 Authenticity in Marketing and Product Development41:58 Transitioning from Player to Coach42:24 Empowering the Team42:53 Self-Awareness and Delegation45:14 Future Goals for Pure Sport46:31 Building a Brand with Emotional Connection52:59 Innovating with Creatine Gummies57:19 Personal Ambitions and Impact59:17 The Importance of Social Connection01:01:59 Global Aspirations for Pure Sport01:07:06 The Role of Personality in Leadership01:10:38 Encouraging Health and Wellness01:14:18 Authentic Community Building01:16:46 Conclusion and Future Outlook Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is being a CEO really worth the stress?In this week's episode, I'm joined by Mark McDermott, Co-Founder and CEO of ScreenCloud, a thriving SaaS business generating 8 figures in annual recurring revenue (ARR). We discuss the realities of being a CEO and entrepreneur, exploring the real challenges, emotional highs, and personal growth that come with leading a successful business.The conversation covers crucial topics such as the loneliness of leadership, handling criticism, and the pressure of maintaining a strong facade for both your team and customers.We also explore the reality of raising funds, the moments that tested his resilience, and the personal strategies used to cope with stress and maintain mental health. From the emotional toll of investor pitching to the challenges and rewards of driving innovation in the digital signage industry, this episode offers an honest look at the day-to-day demands of being leading a successful business.Ideal for:Aspiring CEOs and entrepreneursBusiness leaders scaling their companiesInnovators in the SaaS and tech industriesIndividuals interested in resilience, mental health, and leadershipThose seeking to understand the day-to-day realities of running a successful businessTimestamps:01:32 The Loneliness of Leadership07:10 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs14:30 The CEO's Role20:03 The Importance of In-Person Interaction25:45 Adapting to Remote Work and AI29:14 The Importance of Clock Speed in Business34:46 The Origin Story of ScreenCloud37:30 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Signage48:50 Expanding to the US Market53:43 Raising Angel Investment57:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Pressure01:01:37 The Journey of Mastery01:03:40 Fitness and Personal Growth01:09:42 Balancing Work and Personal Life01:11:25 Mental Health and Coping Strategies01:17:14 Future Plans and MentorshipDiscover MarkLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mhmcdermottScreenCloud - https://screencloud.comGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dodge Woodall is a serial entrepreneur, host of Eventful Lives podcast, and the founder of the Bournemouth 7s Festival, a 30,000-attendee event dubbed the “Glastonbury of sport.”From selling club tickets at age 10 to remortgaging his family home to fund a vision no one believed in, Dodge shares raw, unfiltered lessons on starting, scaling, and surviving as a founder in the events industry.00:00 Trailer02:27 Growing Up in a Pub & Learning Business Early07:21 How Uni Sparked a Club Promotion Empire16:49 The Birth of Bournemouth 7s Festival19:20 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Festival Building27:41 Leadership Style: Freedom, Trust & Gen Z31:42 Selling Viper 10: Lessons from Building a Brand36:42 Remortgaging the House: Betting It All on a Dream43:38 Burnout in the Nightlife Business44:27 Scaling a 7-Figure Festival Business45:38 Straight Talk: Advice for Aspiring Founders47:23 How AI is Reshaping the Entrepreneurial Landscape48:25 Freedom over Money: Building a Business That Fits Your Life51:27 The Realities of the UK Economy for Entrepreneurs59:41 What's Happening to British Culture?01:00:35 Surviving the Pandemic as a Business Owner01:02:25 Taxes, Debt & the Pressure of Entrepreneurship01:20:29 Leaving a Legacy & Building with Purpose01:23:40 Final Thoughts & ReflectionsFollow DodgeWebsite - https://dodgewoodall.com LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/dodgewoodall Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2pOyCAyEi3nZq6rd77FbP9?si=344383d6fdcf42e6 YouTube - https://youtube.com/c/DodgeWoodall Links: https://linktr.ee/DodgeWoodall Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm joined by fellow finance professional Scott Foley to discuss the viral debate between Daniel Priestley and Gary Stevenson on The Diary of a CEO.With wealth inequality at the forefront of global discourse, is a wealth tax really practical? We unpack and explain their clashing views on economic freedom, taxation, and government policy.We explore the most controversial solutions to narrowing the wealth gap and discuss some bold ideas such as a 100% inheritance tax, a land value tax, and taxing unrealised gains,We also look at the impact of AI, globalisation, and property prices on the economic landscape—and what it all means for the future of wealth creation and distribution.00:03 Debate Breakdown: Daniel Priestley vs. Gary Stevenson01:39 Key Points of Agreement and Disagreement04:05 Economic Freedom and Entrepreneurship04:29 Wealth Inequality and Taxation11:00 Global Economic Policies and Their Impact17:05 Profit Shifting and Consumption Tax32:07 Inheritance Tax and Wealth Distribution35:46 Unlocking Unrealised Gains36:34 100% Inheritance Tax and Its Implications38:39 Property Prices and Housing Crisis42:30 Why Gary is Wrong about the History of Property Ownership44:05 The Truth About the UK Under High Taxation49:41 Land Value Tax as a Solution01:00:58 Quantitative Easing and Inequality Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Is AI Going to Disrupt Your Job or Help You Scale Your Business Faster? In this week's episode, I'm joined by Phil Chell, founder and CEO of Hera Waterproofing and Chiron AI, to talk all things AI, entrepreneurship, business growth, and how tech is reshaping the way we build successful companies.Phil shares what it really takes to build a profitable business in a saturated market. We explore how AI is helping founders reduce startup costs, streamline operations, and scale faster than ever. He breaks down the importance of cash flow management, how to land your first customer, and the value of leveraging your network to grow.We also get into the personal side of entrepreneurship - dealing with stress, maintaining work-life balance, and learn what Phil risked to go from corporate life to the freedom of building something of his own.00:00 Trailer01:05 Freedom and Loneliness in Business03:43 The Catalyst for Change: Leaving the Corporate World05:17 Starting a New Business08:56 Innovative Approaches in the Construction Industry12:04 Integrating AI: Transforming Business Operations21:38 Financial Literacy and Business Planning25:28 Cash Flow Management: Why Cash Is King32:44 Defining Success in Business33:47 Investment and Growth36:46 Valuing a Tech Business37:54 Hiring and Company Culture40:47 Personal Reflections on Success46:38 Managing Work-Life Balance52:41 Ambition and Mentorship01:02:39 Final Thoughts and AdviceDiscover PhilLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philchellGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Are you earning more but still feeling like you don't have any extra income in your bank account each month? We often assume that a bigger pay check guarantees financial security, but without the right strategy, lifestyle inflation, tax inefficiencies, and poor financial planning can quietly erode wealth.This week, I'm joined by Lawrence Bearman, a financial advisor specialising in helping high-income Millennials keep more of their hard earned cash. We discuss how to manage wealth, optimise tax efficiency, and avoid the common money pitfalls high earners face.Expect to learn:02:03 Lifestyle Inflation: The Hidden Trap03:15 Understanding Expenditure04:42 The DIY Investor Dilemma06:14 The Value of Financial Advice13:29 Common Financial Challenges for High Earners15:51 Tax Efficiency Strategies18:57 Property Investment vs. Renting23:05 The Emotional Side of Financial Planning30:16 Finding Financial Balance31:35 Avoiding Lifestyle Creep33:39 End of Tax Year Planning34:44 Understanding Pensions39:41 Lawrence's Best Investment45:26 Social Media for Financial Advice49:59 The Role of AI in Financial Planning55:04 Summary of Financial TipsDiscover LawrenceLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-bearmanGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcastNOTE: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or tax advice. Any opinions expressed are those of the guest and host and do not constitute recommendations for specific financial decisions.You should always consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment, tax, or financial planning decisions. Investments can rise and fall in value, and past performance is not indicative of future results. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, I sit down with Peter Wood, co-founder of The Graduate Guide, to discuss the biggest challenges facing university graduates in today's job market.With AI, automation, economic downturns, and the decline of traditional corporate careers, graduates are questioning whether a 9-to-5 job is still the best path.We explore why the graduate job market is so challenging, how to stand out in a competitive job market, the importance of personal branding on LinkedIn, and how to leverage social media for career success.Peter also shares his journey from history student to startup founder, offering insights on networking, breaking free from societal career norms, and finding opportunities beyond traditional corporate jobs.If you're a student, recent graduate, or considering a career change, this episode will give you practical strategies to future-proof your career, land better job opportunities, and navigate today's evolving job market.00:00 Trailer01:08 Challenges Facing Graduates02:03 Navigating the Job Market03:48 The Graduate Guide Mission05:12 Corporate vs. Entrepreneurial Paths08:04 Advice for Non-Traditional Career Paths09:10 Building a Personal Brand21:26 The Role of AI in Recruitment35:56 The Power of Personal Branding38:41 Building Your LinkedIn Presence41:50 Balancing Career and Personal Life45:47 Overcoming Social Pressure and Cringe56:14 The Journey of Building a Business01:00:20 Joining the Entrepreneurial Community Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this 50th episode milestone, I'm pulling back the curtain on what I've learned from the last 12 months launching and growing this podcast - and how these lessons apply to starting any business.From dealing with imposter syndrome to experiencing the benefits of consistency and building a personal brand. I'll also share the costs of podcasting, why networking is a superpower, and the real struggle of staying focused when opportunities are everywhere.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a content creator, or just someone who wants to level up, these 10 lessons will save you time, money, and frustration as you build your own path to success.Expect to learn:00:00 Introduction01:21 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Year in Review02:21 Lesson 1: The Importance of Getting Started04:02 Lesson 2: Embrace Imperfection and Progress10:02 Lesson 3: Consistency is Key11:54 Lesson 4: Managing Work-Life Balance17:17 Lesson 5: The Power of Networking22:48 Lesson 6: Dealing With Imposter Syndrome28:30 Lesson 7: Building Your Personal Brand36:51 Lesson 8: The Challenge of Staying Focused40:39 Defining Success and Ambition50:41 Lesson 9: The Cost of Running a Podcast58:53 Lesson 10: The Reality of Burnout01:08:08 Final Thoughts and Key TakeawaysGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan is an e-commerce expert who turned his Shopify side hustle into a £5 million revenue business. In this episode, he reveals how he scaled his company, maximised profitability, and ultimately exited successfully.The 5-Step Formula to Doubling Profit:Most Shopify store owners focus on traffic and ads, but Dan shares his proven strategy for increasing profit margins - giving you more cash to reinvest in customer acquisition.Accountant's Guide to Running a Profitable Business:With his finance background, Dan breaks down how to structure your business for sustainable growth, so you're not just making sales—you're building a long-term success story.What Happens After a Successful Exit?As an ambitious entrepreneur, what do you do after selling your business? Dan reflects on his journey and shares what he'd do differently if he started again.Whether you're launching a store, scaling to six or seven figures, or planning your exit, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Don't miss this masterclass in e-commerce success!01:39 From Corporate Career to Entrepreneurship02:07 Why Entrepreneurship?03:16 Starting the Business07:56 Scaling and Hiring15:56 Understanding Unit Economics19:00 5 Step Formula to Double Your Profit47:33 Lessons Learned48:29 The Waitlist Strategy49:05 Balancing Profit and Growth53:51 The Importance of Customer Experience58:24 Resilience in Business01:07:39 Future Ambitions and ProjectsDiscover DanWebsite - https://hellotmrw.io/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcclenDouble Your Profit Cheat Sheet - https://hellotmrw.io/pages/double-your-profitGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, entrepreneur Anthony O'Brien shares his experiences and challenges in building a successful business. He discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with a strong team, the concept of a fractional C-suite, and the struggles of managing cash flow and staff. He also talks about his personal motivations, the impact of ADHD on entrepreneurs, and the need for adaptability in business. Key takeaways include the value of hiring people better than oneself, the significance of failure as a learning tool, and balancing personal life with business demands.01:31 The Concept of Fractional C-Suite06:30 Delegation and Building The Perfect Team08:23 ADHD and Entrepreneurship16:14 “The Hardest Year Of My Life”20:02 Common Issues in Growing Businesses32:49 Revenue vs. Profit: The Age-Old Debate33:39 The Entrepreneur's Ego and Revenue Obsession36:40 Challenges of the Current Year37:52 Adapting to Change: Pivot or Perish39:04 The Role of Luck in Business Success41:09 Balancing Business and Personal Life52:01 The Fear of Failure as a MotivatorDiscover AnthonyWebsite - https://profici.co.uk/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-obrien/Podcast - https://profici.co.uk/profici-podcast/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam is the co-founder of A-Game and coaches high achievers to improve performance across multiple areas of their lives.Adam share his own journey, from hitting absolute rock bottom, to building a successful business and helping others to achieve the same.In this conversation we discuss simple strategies to improve your personal performance and relationships. We explore why many men suffer in silence, and discuss how better communication is the answer, but most importantly, how to do this effectively! Adam also provides tips for how men can listen to their partners, something that many of us struggle with, which will lead to a happier and healthier relationship.This was a pretty powerful episode and I'm so grateful to Adam for sharing his personal journey, but also providing some actionable takeaways for others to make small improvement in their lives.Expect to hear:03:49 Struggles with Validation and Comparison08:34 Hitting Rock Bottom14:04 Rebuilding and Finding Purpose18:56 Starting a Business26:25 The Power of Small Habits30:14 Challenges and Growth in Business41:10 Effective Communication46:30 How To Listen To Your Partner For a Better Relationship47:52 The 'Empowerment Dynamic'55:54 The Power of Helpful Thoughts01:03:15 Finding Purpose and Fulfilment01:12:14 Practical Steps for Personal GrowthDiscover AdamWebsite - https://agameconsultancy.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/Instagram.- https://www.instagram.com/agameconsultancy/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Martin Mason is the co-founder of Talent Mapper, a company he built to solve a problem experienced by millions in the corporate workplace: internal mobility. Talent Mapper is a platform that uses data to match employees' individual skill sets with the right job roles, and helps track career progression within organisations. When Martin explained the concept to me during this conversation, it was a lightbulb moment. Having spent years working in large organisations, I've seen firsthand how common these challenges are - people struggling to find roles that align with their skills or facing barriers to internal progression. Talent Mapper addresses this head-on, helping companies retain talent while ensuring employees are in roles where they can thrive. Beyond explaining how Talent Mapper works, Martin opens up about his journey as an ‘accidental entrepreneur.' He shares how he developed his business plan, what it's like to run a startup, and why he would never want to be a sole founder again. This episode is packed with insights for anyone interested in entrepreneurship or navigating their career within a larger organisation. Expect to hear: 02:10 Early Career and Shift to HR05:51 First Entrepreneurial Venture07:39 Building a Business Plan15:32 Developing TalentMapper26:57 Navigating Internal Career Paths33:45 Empowering Employees in Startups34:53 Challenges of Transitioning from Corporate to Startup35:52 Building a Strong Non-Exec Board38:43 The Importance of a Co-Founder41:47 Making Yourself Redundant as a Leader44:04 Future Plans and Ambitions55:47 Addressing Homelessness and Prison ReformDiscover MartinWebsite - https://thetalentmapper.com/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinmason Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It wasn't until I started working in the financial industry that I understood how essential investing was for building long-term wealth.This week, I'm joined by Andrew Craig, founder of Plain English Finance and author of the must-read personal finance book How To Own The World.In this episode, Andrew and I dive into how investing can serve as a powerful tool for wealth creation. We explore what it really means to invest in shares, the importance of starting early, why relying on the state for a retirement pension is risky, how inflation erodes your cash savings, and so much more.Expect to learn:03:19 The Importance of Financial Literacy08:19 The State of Pensions and Future Challenges11:47 The Power of Compounding and Early Investment14:41 Government Policies and Economic Implications26:38 Understanding Inflation and Investment Strategies31:37 What It Means to Invest in Shares37:09 The Misconceptions About Financial Markets45:49 The Importance of Regular Investment57:52 Future Trends01:10:23 Comparing US and UK Economies01:11:15 The US Advantage in Technology and Innovation01:11:37 Challenges Facing the UK Economy01:14:08 Historical Market Trends and Lessons01:25:20 The Importance of Supporting British CompaniesDiscover AndrewWebsite - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCME6xVzdcA7q_RfhRaRIkPALinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcraigpef/?originalSubdomain=ukBooks - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/booksGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm delighted to welcome back Rory MacFdyen, co-founder of Reflo, a sustainable performance wear brand.Rory was one of the podcast's very first guests, so it was a pleasure to catch up and hear about Reflo's impressive growth over the past year.We dive into their journey from startup to scale-up, celebrating milestones like winning the Santander Growing Business Award, launching exciting new partnerships, and continuously innovating to drive sustainability in the apparel industry.Rory also shares invaluable insights on the pros and cons of working in a startup, establishing company structure and values during scaling, navigating the dynamics of a co-founder partnership, and the critical role of hiring the right talent.Expect to hear:02:29 Growth and Expansion04:25 Building a Strong Team05:54 Leadership Dynamics16:06 Sustainable Performance Wear18:13 Partnerships and Innovations25:52 Reloop - Reflo's Innovative New Prodcut35:48 Sustainability Challenges and Greenwashing42:05 Balancing Commercial Viability and Ethics48:34 Building a Sustainable Business Culture1:07:34 Expanding into New Markets and Sports Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this segment, Romy van der Merwe shares actionable steps to help you identify and overcome imposter syndrome. We explore how imposter syndrome manifests, its distinction from self-doubt, and the critical role of consistent effort in building confidence.Discover practical techniques such as maintaining a 'brag book,' setting daily intentions, and embracing mindfulness to regain control and stay present. We also discuss the unique challenges faced by women and people of colour and offer strategies to navigate imposter syndrome in both professional and personal settings.

Nicole Soames is an executive coach and trainer who specialises in helping individuals thrive in their careers and become exceptional leaders.In this conversation we discuss how leadership styles in the workplace have changed over time, how Emotional Intelligence plays a pivotal role for effective leadership, and how this is actually a skill that can be developed with training.Nicole also shares valuable insights on managing burnout, improving self-confidence, uncovering hidden blind spots, how we can work better as a team, and one game-changing piece of advice that will transform your relationship with your boss.This conversation is packed with actionable tips for anyone looking to elevate their career.Expect to learn1:20 Introduction to Career Development and Coaching2:29 Challenges in Career Progression8:38 Public Speaking and Overcoming Fear13:00 Personal Journey into Coaching19:32 Starting and Growing a Business32:52 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership43:23 Understanding Emotional Intelligence in Teams44:55 Managing Upwards: Treating Your Manager as a Customer46:15 Personality Profiling and Emotional Intelligence50:12 Building Self-Confidence and Emotional Awareness52:27 Balancing Work and Life to Avoid Burnout01:01:41 The Importance of Delegation and Outsourcing01:04:16 Professional and Personal AmbitionsDiscover NicoleLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolesoamesatdiadem/Website - https://diademperformance.com/Books - https://www.amazon.co.uk/Books-Nicole-Soames/s?rh=n%3A266239%2Cp_27%3ANicole+SoamesGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After a decade working for a Big 4 Accountant, Jonny made the decision to walk away from the high salary, status, and career trajectory we're often taught to chase, choosing instead to pursue his own path as an entrepreneur.Jonny, the author of the blog post "How I Quit My Job and How You Can Too," shares the steps he took to prepare himself to quit, and how he now helps others do the same.Whether you're considering a career change or seeking financial freedom, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration from someone who's already made the leap.01:20 Quitting My Job02:25 Finding My Passion04:49 Taking a Sabbatical06:32 Discovering Wealth Coaching09:02 Financial Freedom and Career Coaching11:19 The Power of Investing15:05 Starting Something New20:07 Overcoming Societal Expectations28:08 Reflections on Quitting My Job39:35 Rethinking Wealth and Success41:30 Calculating Financial Freedom47:02 The Importance of Playing Your Own Game52:49 Finding Motivation and Enjoying Life01:05:23 Our Psychological Relationship with MoneyDiscover JonnyLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jsmillsca/?originalSubdomain=ukSubstack - https://jonnymills.substack.com/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colin is a high performer, with a full time job as a sales director, a top 1% podcast host and sales trainer in his spare time, he's really mastered productivity! In this discussion, Colin shares his early ambitions, what led him down the path of self development, his passion for productivity, and the lessons he's learnt from his favourite guests.He also shares his current views on the UK, whether moving to Dubai is an option, his future aspirations, his formula for defining success, and his top tips for high performance.Expect to hear01:44 Colin's Journey into Podcasting 02:55 The Influence of Chris Williamson 04:46 Mastering Productivity and Routine 06:51 Balancing a Podcast and a Full-Time Job 10:48 Sales Career Insights 16:58 University Education 30:03 Navigating Criticism and Personal Growth 37:18 The Impact of Podcasting 43:11 Facing Rejection and Imposter Syndrome 47:08 The Value of Preparation and Practice 50:21 Finding Energy Whilst Balancing Multiple Roles 58:27 Future Aspirations and Goals 01:05:52 UK Political and Social Views 01:13:28 Defining Success Discover ColinInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/col.cambro/?hl=enLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/colcampbell1/?originalSubdomain=ukYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCG5AF1q0oL9P3ztAl84LHawSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/41qT7i9uvjWGJbNM6RaFwKGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dan Lipman's story is a masterclass in entrepreneurship. From working in a corporate environment to joining a startup, and ultimately launching his own venture that was acquired in just eight months, his journey offers inspiration and actionable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs.In this episode of Ambitious Minds, Dan shares the rollercoaster ride of building a business, the risks he took, and the strategies that led to his success. You'll learn how Dan and his business partner identified their niche, decided when to take the leap, and created a successful business strategy. Expect to hear:01:42 - Early Career in Sports Industry 03:27 - Working for a Startup 04:28 - Building and Selling a Business 08:34 - Advice on Working for Startups 11:26 - Hiring the Right Team 18:00 - Challenges of Entrepreneurship 28:02 - Acquisition and Growth 39:37 - Learning from Leaders 41:33 - The Power of Storytelling in Business 46:33 - Future Growth and Personal Ambitions 51:43 - Challenges and Delegation in Business 57:16 - The Importance of Enjoying Your Work 01:06:49 - The Value of Co-FoundersGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever wondered what it was like to grow up in post-World War 2 London? This week's episode is a special one - I had the privilege of interviewing my grandparents following 60 years of marriage.Growing up in post-war London, they experienced a world that feels vastly different from today. From playing among bomb sites and strict school discipline to their early romances, family life, and changing roles for women, they paint a picture of daily life in a bygone era.They also share the secrets behind their six decades of marriage, filled with family, laughter, resilience, and love.Expect to hear:00:55 Childhood Memories03:55 School Days and Discipline07:20 Teenage Years and First Love12:53 Early Marriage and Family Life14:58 Raising a Family in Post-War London21:14 The Challenges and Joys of Young Parenthood36:12 A Visit to the Hospital38:05 Learning to Be Parents46:03 Life in the City55:44 Becoming Grandparents57:26 Secrets to a Long Marriage Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Scott Foley, a long-time colleague and a close friend.Scott is one of the most ambitious and curious people I know. We're constantly talking about new technology or potential business ideas, and this conversation was no exception. In this conversation, we cover a wide range of topics, beginning with the impact of high-interest rates on student loans—a challenge many people face—and why more people are choosing to start families later in life. We also discuss how AI can enhance productivity, Scott's tips for maximising ChatGPT, his top book recommendations for aspiring entrepreneurs, and explains the new platform he's built to improve financial literacy for everyday people in the UK.Expect to learn:01:30 The Student Loan Crisis 16:11 The UK's Economic Challenges 19:30 What Property Prices Mean for Starting a Family 23:00 Wealth Inequality 26:00 Understanding Investing 29:08 The Future of Pensions 38:29 Introducing Money Talks 50:08 The Impact of Overregulation on Homeowners 51:14 Exploring the Potential of AI in Daily Work 58:35 Personal Goals and Ambitions 01:05:35 Brainstorming Business Ideas 01:18:31 The Importance of Continuous Learning and DoingDiscover ScottWebsite - https://www.mymoneytalks.co.uk/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-foley-mcsi-aa2003117/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sleep doesn't need much of an introduction. We all do it, but despite spending nearly a third of our lives sleeping, many of us still wake up feeling drained, which can impact our mood and productivity throughout the day.So how can we improve our sleep? This week, I'm joined by Anna West, a sleep specialist who's worked with top sports teams, business leaders, and organisations to help them enhance their sleep and recovery for better performance - from the sports field to the boardroom.In this episode, you'll learn why sleep is crucial for health, performance, and well-being, the key factors that contribute to quality sleep, and how preparing for a good night's sleep actually starts when you wake up. Anna also shares her tips for staying cool during hot summer nights, whether sleep supplements really work, and so much more.Anna's story is equally inspiring - balancing life as a young mum, multiple jobs, and studying, she discovered firsthand the critical role sleep plays in achieving success. Anna truly embodies the Ambitious Mindset.Expect to learn:02:45 The Role of a Sleep Specialist 03:02 Anna's Personal Journey and Career Path 06:36 The Importance of Sleep 07:45 Understanding Sleep as a Result of Daily Actions 11:17 Balancing Ambition and Sleep 17:40 Challenges Faced by Elite Athletes 25:24 The Impact of Sleep on Performance 29:58 Daily Routines for Better Sleep 38:03 The Effects of Alcohol on Sleep 39:45 The Impact of Room Temperature on Sleep Quality 41:21 Hacks for Better Sleep 49:54 Understanding Sleep Apnea and Its Risks 51:47 Daily Habits for Better Sleep 01:01:05 The Role of Supplements in Sleep 01:06:38 The Future of Sleep TechnologyDiscover AnnaWebsite - https://www.sleep2perform.com/aboutLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anna-west-1baa972?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Phil Fraser - entrepreneur, angel investor, podcast host, and a sounding board for fellow entrepreneurs. Phil brings a wealth of experience to this conversation, He's been there, done it, and even got the multi million pound exit t-shirt. You can expect to learn how Phil quantifies the benefits of delegating tasks, whether it's better to be an entrepreneur or an employee, his advice for setting and achieving big goals, the motivations that drive successful entrepreneurs, and his favourite book for business advice.We also explore what life looks like after you exit your business, how he helps other founders through his business sounding board, as well as his number one piece of advice for anyone considering starting their own business.Expect to hear:Here is your updated timestamp list with 2 minutes added to each:02:28 The Birth of an Accidental Business03:16 Early Challenges and Pivots05:40 Scaling Up and Taking Risks08:09 Delegation and Growth25:08 Navigating Crises28:08 Entrepreneurship vs. Employment31:28 The Value of Lifestyle Businesses33:02 Entrepreneurs and Media Perception39:59 Life After Business Exit43:26 The Role of a Business Sounding Board46:43 Angel Investing50:44 Balancing Ambition and FamilyConnect With Phil FraserLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/philfraserTwitter - https://twitter.com/phil_fraserInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/phil.fraser/Website - www.philfraser.co.ukGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Nicolò Donà dalle Rose, a friend who works for a start-up in the space industry.This episode really encapsulates the concept of ambitious minds, as our conversation recreates the kind of dinner table chat you'd have with your friends - genuine talk about work, life, and ambitions.In this episode, Nico shares his journey from studying international politics, to landing in the space industry, whilst giving us a glimpse into how Loft Orbital is reducing the barriers for sending satellite missions into space.We also discuss the importance of mentors and relationships for personal and professional development, Nico's passion for learning, how he landed a job working for a space startup, and his core principles for living a successful life. Expect to learn:02:42 Early Career and Education 06:28 Transition to the Space Industry 09:09 Transferrable Skills to Work in the Space Industry 11:25 Current Role and Learning in the Space Sector 19:29 Mentorship 26:30 Future Aspirations and Reflections 53:11 The Importance of Open-Minded Discussions 55:46 Innovation in the Space Sector 57:22 Balancing Risk and Speed in Business Decisions 01:00:14 The Value of Meaningful Relationships 01:13:53 Defining Success 01:21:21 The Future of Remote and Hybrid Work 01:32:39 The Role of Space in Global Collaboration Welcome to the ambitious mind of Nicolò Donà dalle RoseFollow NicoLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolo-dona-dalle-roseCheck Out Loft OrbitalLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/loft-orbital/Website - https://www.loftorbital.comGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The UK used to be a place where opportunity could thrive, but something feels a bit different recently.In this weeks episode, I'm joined by David Belle, the founder of Fink.Money.In this conversation we discuss a wide range of topics, including social issues within the UK, housing inequality, the real issue with politicians and whether moving abroad is the solution.We also cover the dangers of building a business with external capital, how Fink can improve your chances of being hired by an investment bank, how David successfully built multiple social media channels, and the benefits of lifestyle changes such as quitting alcohol for productivity. Finally David provides his solutions to bring ambition back to the UK! Here are the updated timestamps without bullet points:02:13 Unintended Consequences of Political Decisions 05:42 The Role of Monetary Policy in Market Volatility 07:27 Addressing Inequality: Land Values and Economic Policies 11:44 The UK's Lack of Ambition and Cultural Observations 23:31 Is it Time To Leave the UK?25:28 Drinking Culture and Low Testosterone 37:34 Business Fraud and Lessons Learned 50:31 Advertising and Organic Growth 53:03 Growing Multiple Successful Social Media Channels 57:06 How Fink.Money has Helped Students Get Hired 01:09:39 Business Ambitions01:18:05 How to Fix The UKFollow David & Fink.MoneyWebsite - www.fink.moneyX - https://x.com/finkmoney_TikTok - https://www.tiktok.com/@fink.tokGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We all know LinkedIn is essential for business growth; whether you're looking to land new clients, scale your business, or secure the best talent in the market. Yet, many of us aren't leveraging its full potential. In this week's episode, I'm joined by James Farnfield, founder of Shake Content, an agency that helps businesses build authority, grow awareness and drive pipeline on LinkedIn.Whether you're a business owner striving for growth or an individual looking to enhance your profile, it's crucial to know what, when, and how to communicate with your audience.James's online content is brilliant, and in this episode, he shares valuable strategies to ensure your content stands out and meets your goals.We also get to explore James's career journey and the experiences that led him to starting his own agency.Expect to learn:02:40 Early Entrepreneurial Ventures04:37 University and Career Aspirations07:18 Starting a Business During COVID10:28 Transition to Marketing Consultancy22:58 The Power of LinkedIn for Business Growth36:55 Creating a Content Strategy38:04 The ICE Framework for Content Creation46:04 The Importance of Authenticity50:55 Building Connections Through Social Media58:23 Future Plans and Business GrowthDiscover James and Shake ContentWebsite - www.shakecontent.comLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-farnfield Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Mitch Hahn, the captain of Team GB football team, who made an unexpected transition into the world of accountancy following his time as a professional footballer.Mitch recounts his accidental journey into accountancy, where he began working with Mark Norden, his boss and mentor who helped him unlock his full potential. He ultimately rose through the ranks, becoming the CEO of Nordens and has transformed the company into more than just an accountancy practice, driving a focus on helping businesses and owners achieve their potential. We also discuss how Mitch made himself indispensable to the company, his approach to hiring people, his leadership style that empowers his staff, and how he completed changed the company's core values.This conversation covers a wide range of topics, from Mitch's early ambitions as a young footballer to his deep passion for helping others succeed. Mitch's story is inspirational and a testament to the value of hard work and taking action.Expect to learn02:10 The Value of Sports in Personal Development05:52 Personal Reflections on Sports and Mindset18:58 Transitioning from Sports to Business21:58 Mentorship and Personal Growth31:56 The Journey to Becoming a CEO36:01 Building a Successful Business44:50 Becoming CEO During a Crisis46:45 Leadership and Team Dynamics49:01 Work-Life Balance and Employee Wellbeing53:05 Leadership Insights: Adapting and Inspiring59:46 A Fresh Approach to Business Development01:02:07 How Nordens Helps Transform Businesses01:10:15 Core Values: The Heart of the Business01:17:04 Leadership Insights and Personal GrowthDiscover Nordens and MitchWebsite - www.nordens.co.ukLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/nordens-chartered-accountants-&-business-advisers/Follow Mitch on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/mitchhahn/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Kane and Ashley from Progressive Media, the UK's largest podcast agency and hosts of the Podcaster's Podcast.We dive into their personal journeys - from building a successful podcast agency in their 20s to the unexpected way Kane met one of the UK's top entrepreneurs, who later became his boss. Plus, hear how Ashley skipped university to start a dropshipping business.Kane and Ashley share practical advice on making yourself invaluable to your boss, why Gen Z may be both the smartest and laziest generation, and why owning a business is essential for building wealth.This episode sheds light on the power of alternative career paths and how leveraging social media and podcasting can fast-track your career and drive business growth, providing tips and advice for podcasters starting out and looking to monetise their shows today.Expect to learn:07:15 Personal Backgrounds: Kane and Ash's Journeys18:25 The Value of Networking20:10 Is Traditional Education Broken?25:26 The Power of Saying Yes34:23 Choosing a Career Path: The Butterfly Effect36:15 Unexpected Opportunities and Networking39:28 Podcasting: Opportunities44:00 Monetising Podcasts59:00 Why I Started a Podcast01:10:52 The Influence of Content and Branding01:12:10 Generational Differences01:19:24 The Value of Taking Action01:20:46 Surrounding Yourself with Successful People01:36:23 The Benefits of Working for StartupsDiscover The Podcasters Podcast:Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/ie/podcast/the-podcasters-podcast/id1592722911Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/1J0o08QsXXgWIN9mzZblvSYouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcfBOaemNBEnfFQa9LSEMBg/videosGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know that ceremonial-grade cacao, the purest form of chocolate, has a range of health benefits? From improved sleep and heart health to lower stress, better skin, and a natural mood boost. This product has been used for centuries, but what you find on the shelves today is far from its natural form.In this episode, I'm delighted to be joined by Adam and Ash, the founders of Nature's Joint.As well as exploring the benefits of Cacao, we get into a deeper conversation about the importance of ethical business practices that empower local communities and resist exploitation by large corporations, and why buying from small businesses is beneficial for your health and the environment.02:35 Health Benefits of Cacao05:20 Historical Context of Chocolate08:05 Starting the Business16:55 Challenges in Importing29:40 Marketing and Growth Strategies34:32 Ethical Sourcing35:00 Benefits of Buying from Small Businesses39:02 Marketing and Authenticity45:28 Investment and Maintaining Values54:42 Purpose and Passion in BusinessDiscover Nature's JointWebsite - www.naturesjointcacao.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/naturesjointcacao/?hl=enGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's must-listen episode, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Harry Kimberley-Bowen, co-founder of Spacebands and the 2022 Young Entrepreneur of the Year. From selling sweets in school to funding his final year at university with a sustainable fruit juice business, Harry is a natural entrepreneurial.When the pandemic hit, Harry and his best friend Ronan acted fast; instead of sitting enjoying the sunshine like everybody else, they launched a social distancing wearable device that quickly became a success, earning ten times his annual salary in just the first year.Listen as Harry recounts the challenges and successes of starting a business from their spare bedroom, including a hilarious story from their early shipping days. We also explore how Spacebands pivoted from a social-distancing product to a workplace safety device.Harry shares actionable insights on leveraging LinkedIn Sales Navigator to pitch to Angel investors and negotiating with venture capitalists, even with no prior experience. This episode is packed with inspiration, practical advice, and stories that every aspiring entrepreneur needs to hear. If you're enjoying the podcast, please hit the follow button and leave a review — it really helps the show grow and reach more listeners!Expect to hear:03:00 First Entrepreneurial Venture: Frugly04:45 The Birth of Space Bands08:30 Rapid Growth and Challenges13:00 Navigating the Pandemic and Scaling Up16:20 Expanding Product Features and Market31:20 Strategies for Attracting Angel Investors35:40 Transitioning to VC Investment38:25 Negotiating with VCs41:20 The Importance of Resilience and Passion51:00 Balancing Work and Life as a Founder56:55 Advice for EntrepreneursDiscover SpacebandsWebsite - www.spacebands.comFollow HarryLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/harrykimberley-bowenGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Booking a physio appointment is one of those things we know we should do but we rarely actually do it.In this episode, I'm joined by David Thomas, the founder of Kaizen Physiotherapy & Performance.David's career has taken some fascinating turns, from working with NHS patients to treating elite athletes, including footballers, rugby players, and Olympic competitors.We dive into what it's like to work in the NHS, David's thoughts on areas for improvement, and the contrasts between public and private sector work. We also explore the true benefits of physiotherapy and David's approach to getting rid of pain for good — spoiler alert - these don't include the quick fixes you see online.David shares his journey of starting a business from scratch and offers practical strategies for finding clients, the can be applied across any industry.Expect to learn03:30 Dave's Journey into Physiotherapy06:10 Working in the NHS: Challenges and Insights09:00 Preventative vs. Reactive Healthcare15:40 Building a Physiotherapy Business38:35 Networking and Business Growth Strategies50:10 Starting a Business: The Hard Work Behind the Scenes52:40 Challenges of Competing in a Big City57:40 Outsourcing and Focusing on Strengths01:07:45 Advice for Aspiring Physiotherapists01:18:15 The Value of Professional HelpKaizen Physiotherapy & PerformanceWebsite - www.kaizenphysio.co.uk/Instagram - www.instagram.com/kaizen.physiotherapy/Get In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Did you know that 80% of the world's workforce does not sit behind a desk, and these people are often overlooked by traditional HR platforms that provide necessary functions such as your payslip, holiday schedule, or employee information.Simon Ellis is the CEO and Co-Founder of Jem, an innovative technology company that has developed a game-changing solution that makes essential HR functions accessible via WhatsApp. Already trusted by over 115,000 users every month, Jem is revolutionising the way non-desk workers interact with HR.In this episode, we dive deep into Simon's entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Jem, and his ambitious vision for integrating even more daily tasks into WhatsApp. We explore how Simon plans to scale Jem to $100 million in revenue by 2030 and his people-first leadership approach, which helps employees discover their ‘genius zones.'This conversation goes beyond business strategy—we discuss personal fulfilment, professional growth, work-life balance, authenticity, and the value of true partnerships. Simon also shares valuable advice for entrepreneurs, including his favourite podcasts and the book he's gifted to over 100 people.If you're new to the podcast and enjoyed this episode, please hit the follow button and leave a review. Your feedback is invaluable in helping us grow and improve the show.04:00 Priority Shifts in Your 30s07:50 Starting the Business09:35 Empowering Employees12:17 Challenges and Growth23:40 WhatsApp as a Business Tool31:00 Partnership Dynamics43:57 The Role of Advisors and Mentors44:22 The Importance of Vulnerability45:27 Learning from Successful People48:01 Balancing Work and Personal Life54:51 Building Authentic Personal Brands01:06:33 Living an Extraordinary Life01:12:01 Book Recommendations and InspirationsDiscover JemWebsite - https://www.jemhr.com/Follow SimonLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-reid-ellis?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_appGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Oli and Ash, the founders of Sipp'd, a craft soda brand that, now that you've heard of it, you'll start seeing everywhere!Their journey is an inspiring one — two accountants who decided to leave their careers behind and launch a business together in November 2019, just before the Covid pandemic struck.We dive into the challenges they faced during that uncertain time, how they adapted when the pandemic hit, and how they scaled the business despite numerous challenges. We also explore the realities of being your own boss and what sets their product apart from traditional sodas.Oli and Ash share invaluable advice on bootstrapping a business, using social media for free marketing, and the lessons they've learned along the way—offering guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.They also discuss the exciting opportunities for challenger brands in today's market, and I hope this conversation inspires you on your own journey.Expect to learn:05.30 The Birth of a Business Idea07.15 Quitting Jobs and Starting Fresh09.25 Navigating COVID Challenges12.40 Early Sales and Market Strategies15.05 Growth and Expansion17.35 Balancing Work and Personal Life23.25 Product Development and Refinement26.00 Manufacturing Process Insights33.30Craft Beer Collaboration35.00 Business Evolution and Goals36.40 Lessons for Aspiring Entrepreneurs39.40 The Importance of Resilience41.30 The Power of Partnerships53.15 Navigating Sales and Rejection56.25 The Role of Social MediaSipp'dWebsite - www.sippd.co.ukInstagram - www.instagram.com/sippd_drinksGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm excited to be joined by Neil Gill, a restaurateur and property developer who has spent most of his career working for himself.In our conversation, you'll get a glimpse into the mind of a natural entrepreneur, as Neil creates 2 business plans on the spot, including how to start a business with ZERO capital.He also shares insights from his experience working alongside Alan Yao, the founder of Wagamama, and explains how he created this opportunity for himself. Neil reflects on the biggest risks he has taken throughout his career, his relentless pursuit of new opportunities, opening his first restaurant, and how he unexpectedly fell into his current business. This episode is packed with practical advice for anyone considering starting their own business, and Neil shares the honest truth about what it takes to work for yourself.Expect to learn:02:30 From Sports Dreams to Hospitality11:30 The Harsh Realities of Business in London14:00 Navigating Entrepreneurship: Motivations and Misconceptions25:30 Working Alongside the Founder of Wagamama44:45 Building a Business With ZERO Capital48:00 The Sacrifices of Entrepreneurship49:00 The Reality of Running a Business50:45 Corporate Life vs. Entrepreneurship51:15 Business Ideas and Execution01:00:00 Risks in Entrepreneurship01:15:00 Defining SuccessGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm thrilled to be joined by Piers Dickinson, founder of Hyde & Hare, a luxury interiors e-commerce brand inspired by the Danish Hygge lifestyle.Piers's entrepreneurial journey began as a teenager buying and selling shoes on eBay. He eventually launched Hyde & Hare after a serendipitous conversation with Liz Hurley at a safari lodge in Kenya.Piers talks about the challenges of starting and scaling a business, from packaging products at his kitchen table to expanding the brand internationally, sourcing high-quality products, and dealing with lawsuits from some of the world's biggest fashion brands.He also reflects on the importance of work-life balance, mentorship, and his ambitions for growing Hyde & Hare.If you've ever considered starting your own e-commerce brand, this episode is a must-listen. Piers shares not only the successes but also the challenges he's faced, providing valuable insights to help you on your journey.Expect to learn:03.00 Starting Hyde & Hare 04.30 Building the Brand 09.20 Kenya Experience and Inspiration 11.30 Launching CDC Collections 16.15 Challenges and Growth 25.30 Understanding SEO Basics 28.00 Challenges of Entrepreneurship 29.20 Balancing Work and Life 35.15 Scaling the Business 49.30 Lessons Learned and Future Plans Hyde & HareWebsite - www.hydeandhare.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/hydeandhareGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode I'm joined by Joe Haynes, the founder of Penzer Wines, a fine wine importer, and co-owner of Cloth Restaurant, an incredible new restaurant in central London. I met Joe when visiting the restaurant, and when I discovered he was the owner I wanted to understand how this young man had started his own restaurant. Joe opens up about his entrepreneurial journey, starting with his experience working on vineyards across Europe. He also talks about the early days of balancing a full-time job while building his wine import business in the evenings. Joe offers a number of fantastic insights for entrepreneurs, including the importance of finding the right team, securing investment for both businesses, how he found the location in central London, and the key ingredients that have made opening the restaurant a success.Whether you're curious about the food and wine industry or an aspiring entrepreneur, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons for everyone, and I'm so grateful to Joe for sharing his insights.04.00 Starting the Wine Business08.30 Challenges and Successes in Wine Importing19.30 Opening a Restaurant: The Journey Begins29.00 Facing Pre-Opening Jitters30.00 The Power of Word of Mouth and PR38:45 Future Plans and Expansion42:30 Balancing Work and Personal Life45.30 Lessons LearnedCloth RestaurantInstagram - www.instagram.com/clothrestaurantWebsite - www.clothrestaurants.comPenzer WinesInstagram - www.instagram.com/Penzer_WinesWebsite - www.penzer-wines.ukGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm super excited to be joined by Tom Merrick; an online fitness coach and YouTuber with over 1 million subscribers and 100 million views.I've been following Tom's videos for the last four years during my own journey to improve flexibility since the pandemic. This episode showcases the power of the internet, as I've learned so much from Tom's online content, and now we had the opportunity to record a podcast together.In this episode, Tom shares his journey from editing online gaming videos in university to creating fitness content nearly a decade ago, driven by passion and a desire to help others.He discusses his approach to content creation, strategies for monetising on YouTube, why some videos perform better than others, and the surprising workings of YouTube.This episode is especially relevant in today's world, where many people are trying to monetise social media. Tom provides plenty of tips for newcomers from his decade-long experience in the space.I highly recommend checking out Tom's YouTube channel, which is packed with valuable health and fitness content.Expect to hear:02.30 Early YouTube Days and Growth04.15 Combining Passions: Fitness and Creativity06.30 Starting a Career in Fitness09.00 Monetising YouTube and Coaching11.15 Creating Valuable Content15:15 Advice for Aspiring YouTubers31.30 Balancing Privacy and Fame33.30 Ambitions and Goals36.00 Diversifying Interests40.15 The Importance of Asking for Help45.00 Working for Yourself50.15 Fitness and LongevityConnect with Tom: YouTube - www.youtube.com/channel/UCU0DZhN-8KFLYO6beSaYljgInstagram - www.instagram.com/thebodyweightwarrior/Website - www.bodyweightwarrior.co.ukGet In Touch:LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Imposter Syndrome is a common trait among high achievers and has been a recurring theme with many of the guests I've interviewed so far, and there's a good chance you've experienced this at some point in your life.That's why, in this week's episode, I'm excited to welcome Romy van der Merwe, an imposter syndrome and career coach.Romy shares her own journey of battling imposter syndrome, despite her impressive achievements as a competitive international swimmer—once ranked 11th in the world—and a successful real estate agent.She discusses her own struggles, and offers practical advice for identifying and managing imposter syndrome with a few simple yet effective strategies.I found this conversation incredibly insightful, and many of Romy's points resonated deeply with me, such as being a perfectionist, struggling with self-doubt, and always feeling rushed.I really hope you find this discussion as helpful as I did and that you take away some valuable advice that helps you unlock your true potential.And if you do find this episode helpful, all I ask is one favour - please could you share this podcast with a likeminded ambitious friend as it will really help me to grow the show.Expect to learn:03.00 The Struggles of Perfectionism06.30 Imposter Syndrome in High Achievers11.15 Personal and Professional Impacts12.00 Understanding and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome15.30 Recognising and Addressing Imposter Syndrome29.00 Building Confidence: The First Steps39.00 Office Tips for a Productive Day43.00 Overcoming Perfectionism52.00 Advice for the Younger SelfLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/romyvcoaching/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/romyvcoaching/Website - https://romyvcoaching.ca/Get In Touch:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by… ME.I've received a number of questions about my story, so to mark this significant milestone of 20 episodes, I thought I would turn the spotlight onto me.I talk about my career journey, how and why I started a podcast, the surprising barriers to entry, reflecting on how I can improve, my unsustainable work-life balance, my opinion on university, plus my advice to people leaving school today. Expect to hear:04.00 Early Aspirations07.30 Career Transitions14.45 My Superpower22.30 How to Start a Podcast40.30 The Importance of Having Options41.30 Chasing Success and Personal Development44.00 Podcast Achievements47.45 Balancing Work, Life, and Personal Projects01:02.30 Advice for School Leavers and Career Choices01:10.30 The Value of Non-Traditional Paths01:12.45 Embracing UniquenessI'd love to get more feedback from you, especially regarding guests you want to hear from. No matter who they are, let me know who you'd like on the show, and I will reach out to them.Get In Touch:LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Adam Ashe, a former professional rugby player and co-founder of Puresport.Adam shares his journey, which includes the physical hurdles he overcame as a professional athlete, and how the discipline and resilience he developed in sports paved the way for his success in business. This episode is a perfect example of how solving personal problems can lead to great business ideas.This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone navigating their career and you'll learn about: 01:49 Adam's Early Ambitions07:15 Facing Challenges and Overcoming Adversity11:40 Professional Rugby Journey Begins15:15 Training Camp and Proving Himself20:00 First Scotland Cap and Injury Struggles36:40 Starting Puresport: The Catalyst and Early Days54:55 Moving to LA and Business Decisions55:40 Raising Funds and Business Growth01:05:00 Navigating Early Challenges at Puresport01:16:45 Balancing Multiple Ventures01:24:10 Advice for Athletes Transitioning from SportThis was a fascinating conversation and you really get a glimpse into the mind of a person who has not only achieved a lifetime worth of success at such a young age, but understand the personal journey of self discovery along the way.LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/adam-ashe-8a365612bInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/adamashe_/Get In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Charlotte Lafferty, the owner and founder of Think Talent Partners.Charlotte has a fascinating career that began in a cold-calling recruitment role and eventually led her to Amsterdam, where she started her own business advising startups and scale up to build successful teams.Charlotte shares her journey, which includes the challenges she faced as a recruitment agent during the financial crisis and how she overcame the setback of having her job offer rescinded after moving to a new country.This episode offers valuable advice for anyone at a crossroads in their career, and you can expect to learn:03:01 University and Career Choices09:54 Startup Culture and Talent Retention20:27 Starting a Business During COVID27:33 Networking and Building a Client Base32:55 Navigating Career Transitions34:37 Crafting Successful Job Applications37:52 Making Yourself Indispensable to Your Boss43:08 Salary Negotiation Tips49:18 Knowing Your Value and Asking For It52:30 Working in the Netherlands vs. the UKLinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottelafferty/?originalSubdomain=nlGet In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm joined by Patrick Watts - Author, Financial Adviser, Business Founder and Academic.Patrick, the author of 'The End of the American Empire', was recently named as Author of the Month by Graham Hancock.In our discussion, we dive into the contents of Patrick's book, exploring his perspectives on American politics, his views on Donald Trump re-entering the presidential race, why he believes Americans can't agree on politics, the importance of protecting democracy, and his proposed solutions for change.We also delve into Patrick's background, his motivations for writing the book, how he balances his career with ongoing education, the process of writing and publishing a book, and the core values that guide him through life.This was an enlightening conversation that went in multiple directions, and Patrick has so many interesting insights… ranging from his views on American and global politics, the process for self-publishing a book, to his values for living a positive life.Website - https://www.patrickwattsbooks.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/patrickwattsbooks/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-watts-4b5874289/Get In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode. I'm thrilled to be joined by my good friend Rich Hine, the founder of British Polo Gin, an organic gin company based in the Cotswolds.I've been looking forward to recording this episode for a while, as Rich and I have been discussing business ideas since we met in 2019. In fact, he was a significant influence on my decision to start this podcast.Rich is the epitome of a down-to-earth businessman, and he openly shares the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, starting his business right after university and figuring it out as he went along.In this episode, Rich reveals his strategy for breaking into Fortnum & Mason, one of London's most prestigious food and drinks retailers. He talks about the scary times of running a hospitality business during the Covid pandemic, pivoting to produce hand sanitiser for the NHS, and diversifying his business model multiple times.He also offers valuable advice to aspiring entrepreneurs, and shares a hilarious story about his attempt to flip a classic car, another of his business ventures.If you enjoy this episode, I'd be incredibly grateful if you could take a moment to hit the follow button. It really helps grow the show and ensures you never miss out on these inspiring conversations.Website - https://www.britishpologin.co.uk/why-british-polo-gin-is-so-goodInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/britishpologinGet In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you'd told me 10 years ago that my old colleague who worked in finance with me would be cutting my hair before recording a podcast together, I would have called you crazy!But in this week's episode, I am excited to be joined by Liam Leahy, the Mustdash Barber, who made a bold decision at the age of 28 to quit his job working in the city and train to become a barber. In this conversation, Liam explains how he felt so depressed and anxious going into work that he felt physically sick, but has now found the thing that he's truly passionate about, and just two years into his new career, Liam won the Barber of the Year competition for 2024!Expect to learn:What steps Liam took to turn his life around.How he transferred skills from his previous role into his barbering business.Growing his network to include some of the world's best barbers.The significant role social media has played in growing his new brand.The importance that preparation as a key to success, plus much much more.This was such a cool episode for me because this was the first time me and Liam had seen each other in around 10 years, and we've gone from working in the finance industry together, to Liam cutting my hair before recording a podcast episode.It was quite a surreal moment and I'm so pleased to see Liam feeling so happy and fulfilled in his new career!If you'd like to check out Liam's work, you can find him using the following links:https://www.instagram.com/themustdashbarber/Get In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

As transformations go, there aren't many more inspiring stories than Brad's; a creative individual who found himself stifled working in the finance industry. It was actually a holiday in the Philippines that inspired him to change career and become a freelance photographer. Within just 4 years, his portfolio includes photos of will.i.am, Demi Lovato, Matthew McConaughey, The Foo Fighters, and most recently, The Hardest Geezer as he crossed the finish line in Africa.Brad's photography business, The Snapshot People, started with just 2 people and a camera phone, and has now grown into a business that's ranked number 1 in Europe on Bark.com, with Brad and his team being flown all over the world for work.But it hasn't always been smooth sailing for Brad. In fact, he had already quit his job to start this business just as the Covid pandemic hit. Expect to learn:How Brad made this business work despite a global lockdownHow he booked his first clientHis advice for people scaling up their businessesWhat Brad believes sets him apart from his competitorsHow he managed to secure a contract for The Hardest Geezer, plus much much more. This conversation with Brad is testament to the importance of hard work and perseverance when starting a business, and Brad has insights for everyone, whether you're considering changing career, scaling up your business, or you simply want to hear the stories along the way. Website - https://www.bark.com/en/gb/company/the-snapshot-people/Lgq9D/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/worldgreen/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/thesnapshotpeople/Get In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you've heard the term lab-grown diamond but you're curious or even skeptical about what they are, I've got a great guest for you in this week's episode of the Ambitious Minds podcast.I am very excited to be joined by Akhil Bakhai, Managing Director at Labon, a supplier of lab grown diamonds to the European diamond industry. Labon has a great story, having partnered with a 100% renewable diamond lab that grows and polishes diamonds with a zero carbon footprint.Expect to learn:What a lab grown diamond actually is.How they differ from natural diamonds.The shocking fact about how long they take to grow.Whether there are any environmental or ethical benefits for choosing lab grown diamonds.Plus a really helpful guide for people buying an engagement ring for their partner.I'm super grateful to Akhil for sharing his experience in the diamond industry; this is something which I had very little knowledge about and I feel I learnt so much during this conversation.360 Tour - https://360tour.greenlab.diamonds/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/akhil-bakhai-a5459a232/?originalSubdomain=beGet In Touch:Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram -https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Have you ever found yourself in a negative spiral, but wondered how you got there?Mind Data is a tech startup that helps people track their mental health trends and provide real-time insights, helping individuals, corporations and universities to take data-driven and proactive steps to improve mental wellbeing. In this week's episode, I'm joined by Sean Ruane, Mind Data's Founder and CEO.Sean's mission is amazing, with an objective to improve the mental health of 1 million people across the globe. But his motivation comes from a place of personal tragedy and dealing with his own mental health challenges. Sean opens up about his experience, and explains how this has formed his life purpose. In addition to this, Sean is a natural entrepreneur and has experimented with multiple business in his life, as well as as joining a startup as employee number 1 and remaining with the company until it was acquired, and then turned his focus onto building his own startup.Expect to learn how Sean overcame own his mental health challenges, what it was like working for a startup in the founder's spare bedroom, the journey to creating his own startup, how Mind Data uses AI, his advice to fellow entrepreneurs on living without regrets, and being aggressive with business ideas.I think its fair to say that everyone has struggled in one way or another with their own mental health challenges, no matter how small they are, and its very inspiring to hear about the ways that Sean and his team are trying to address this. If you'd like to learn more about Sean and Mind Data's journey, please follow the links below:Website - https://www.minddata.io/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/mind_data/Get In Touch:https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, I'm delighted to be joined by Lisa Meller, a former solicitor who made a career change to become a financial advisor, driven by her own challenges in finding somebody relatable, with only 1 in 6 financial advisors being female.In this conversation, Lisa shares her approach to financial advice, which is centred around her passion for trying to bridge the financial gender gap. But Lisa's story doesn't stop there. She's an entrepreneur and explains how she made the jump from solicitor to building her own financial advice business. She also gives us an insight into a wellness retreat she set up with friends that integrates financial education.Throughout our discussion, Lisa offers invaluable advice, from financial planning strategies for high earners, to the considerations for women navigating career breaks to start a family, including a particularly interesting view on pension contributions during maternity leave.So, whether you're seeking financial guidance, contemplating a career shift, or simply eager for inspiration, I think you'll really enjoy this conversation with Lisa. And remember, if you know someone who could benefit from listening to this episode, please make sure you spread the show and play your part in improving financial education.Website - https://www.personalfinancemovement.com/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/personal_finance_movement/LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-meller-dipfa-03563298/Get In Touch:https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week's episode, I'm excited to be joined by Daniel Smith, a serial entrepreneur with business ventures spanning home security, property, glazing, sliding doors, solar and green technology. Having grown up in an entrepreneurial family, Dan didn't see any other option once he left university and jumped straight into the world of business at the age of 21. This episode perfectly encapsulates Dan's entrepreneurial spirit and he shares the challenges and rewards of starting, building, selling and giving away businesses.This episode covers Dan's experiences in various businesses, from challenges to successes. This discussion encompass the importance of values, family, work-life balance, navigating business challenges, embracing new ventures, networking, scaling businesses, and the significance of passion and learning from mistakes in entrepreneurial pursuits.Expect to learn Dan's journey into the business world, how Dan feels about employing staff, the truth about property development, his simple advice for achieving a work life balance, the importance of high quality service in building a successful business, plus much much more.Can you believe we're already on episode 10? It's been such an incredible journey and the podcast has already been listened to in 20 different countries. I am so grateful to each and every one of you for supporting me on this journey so far. Without your support in sharing the show, this growth wouldn't have been possible and I thank each and every one of you. To keep this show growing, I would be so grateful if you could take a moment to leave a review and share this with somebody who you think would benefit from a bit of inspiration right now.Thank you x Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm joined by Sam Brearey, former elite athlete and co-founder of Accessercise, a fitness app specifically designed to improve health and fitness within the disabled community.Astonishingly, around 15% of the global population suffer from disabilities, which is more than 1 billion people and Accessercise is on a mission to improve access and resources for a healthier and longer life.Expect to learn how the Covid pandemic inspired the creation of this idea, Sam's journey from aspiring Olympic athlete to facing setbacks during the Olympic trials, the challenges of finding a new purpose after sport, growing his company internationally, plus much, much more.If you know anybody that would benefit from listening to this episode, all I ask is that you take a moment to share this with them and help by spreading the incredible work that Sam and his Co-founder are doing. Thank you xInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/accessercise/?hl=en-gbWebsite - https://accessercise.com/Get In Touch:https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, I'm excited to share the story of Rory MacFadyen, co-founder of Reflo, a sustainable sports apparel company that transforms plastic into high-performance sportswear.As a day job, Rory is also the Chief Marketing Officer of Icons Series, a concept that brings together world class athletes from various sports to compete in a unique golf tournament.It's so inspiring listening to Rory speak, as he is clearly very passionate about driving genuine change in the garments industry, with an ambition to make sports apparel more sustainable. He speaks about the scale of single use plastic in the fashion industry, which completely blew my mind.Fortunately, Reflo is pioneering positive change, and the company recently raised £1m in funding to grow the business, including investment from one the world's most elite footballers.If you've been thinking about making small changes to reduce your use of plastic, come and join me in this conversation with Rory to learn how Reflo is making a difference in the fashion industry.Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/refloofficialWebsite - https://reflo.com/Get In Touch:https://www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.