HOW TO START UP by FF&M

Andy Varley started Insanity at just 17 years old & has since grown it into a multifaceted business spanning artist management, brand partnerships, music publishing and content production.Stay tuned to hear Andy's journey from teenage entrepreneur to leading one of the UK's most respected entertainment companies. We talk about how to find support when you're starting out & the lessons he's learned about staying relevant in an ever-changing media and cultural landscape.Andy's advice:Start building networks as early as you can.  Meet as many people as possible in your chosen field to make contactsFind your gap in the market, but most of all love what you doEntrepreneurship can be lonely; ideally have someone to share the decision-making process withTry to surround yourself with with advisors (accountants, lawyers perhaps) who can act as mentorsThere are many mentorship programmes availableBCorp is a force for good and will be a guiding influence on your employeesKindness and sympathy are vital leadership qualitiesLead in a way your team will respectUnderstand you can't do everything yourself! Trust your employeesFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2026, MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy found that 96% of UK entrepreneurs admit to ‘bottling up' the stress of running their business. So, I wanted to hear from a founder who has cracked the code of productivity. Emily Austen is the founder of leading PR agency EMERGE and the author of SMARTER: 10 lessons for a more productive and less-stressed life, publishing this autumn. Having founded EMERGE in 2012, Emily has navigated entrepreneurship and discovered a tried and tested formula for avoiding unproductive busyness. Keep listening to hear Emily's advice on how founders can avoid becoming busy yet unproductive and why tracking your energy rather than your time can help unlock your productivity. FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Le'Nise Brothers is a leading nutritionist & yoga teacher specialising in women's health, hormones and the menstrual cycle. Le'Nise's first book, You Can Have A Better Period, was released in March 2022 and she also hosts the Period Story podcast, breaking taboos around menstrual health, hormones, perimenopause, menopause and beyond. In today's episode, Le'Nise shares her advice on working to the rhythms of your body and harnessing the power of the four stages of the menstrual cycle to benefit you both professionally and personally.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Rachel Harris is passionate about financial well-being & running values-led businesses. Rachel has created a modern, cloud‑focused accountancy & tax advisory firm for both businesses and individuals alongside a platform for business owners to find accessible, consumable, financial education. Stay tuned to hear Rachel's advice on the highs and lows of running a business. Why loneliness is something that you should not ignore, what you should ask an accountant when you are vetting your first one, how they can become your business partner, how to manage people within the business...& so much more.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Daisy Bird, founder of BIRD PR, leads with a deep belief in the power of culture, emotional intelligence & building a people-first business. After 15 years in business, Daisy is cognisant of the investment this takes as well as the invisible skills a founder has to have to make a business succeed with a happy team as well.Stay tuned to hear Daisy's insights on the emotional undercurrent of running a business, why understanding personalities is non-negotiable in service industries, how she interviews, the value of psychometric testing and why investing in people is the best way to future proof your business.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Eshita Kabra-Davies is the founder & CEO of By Rotation. Eshita founded the platform in 2019 to challenge the notion that ownership was not the only way to consume and enjoy fashion. Since then, she has successfully built a very strong personal/professional profile internationally alongside her business. Keep listening to hear Eshita's advice on why to question what to put out there in terms of professional and personal self, and why it is important to consider the platform context.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Russell Foster, Professor of Circadian Neuroscience & the Head of the Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute at the University of Oxford as well as the author of Life Time explains why a good night's sleep is so important, as well as what ‘good' means to an individual, plus how to balance your sleep schedule with building your business. FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, we hear from physio, Tim Blakey, creator of PRIME BODY.  Born from his own health and fitness challenges and overcoming training injuries, Tim combines corrective work with strength training to optimise body composition and combat body betrayal. Tim shares his perspective on why founder mobility is so important to incorporate from the beginning, why to prioritise resistance training over cardio and why it can actually be a great investment in your overall business to look after your mobility.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Jenna Hope, registered nutritionist and founder of Jenna Hope Nutrition helps implement beneficial nutrition strategies, through a combination of talks, presentations and workshops, to improve people's well being, productivity, sleep, stress management and mental health. FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Jamie Clements, founder of The Breath Space: using breathing techniques to overcome anxiety and panic attacks, Jamie discovered the extensive benefits of breathwork for improving physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

As a workplace stress and burnout prevention consultant, Nina Nesdoly, Nina shares her advice on maintaining a work/life balance, identifying stress triggers and techniques for relieving stress. If you'd like to contact Nina, you can reach her at contact@workplaceclarity.comFF&M enables you to own your own PR & podcasts.  Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 Fallow, Field & Mason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link Text us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, I'm joined by Broadcaster & Mental Health Ambassador, Matt Johnson for a grounded, practical conversation about letting go of archetypes and expectations and instead getting honest about who you are, where your patterns come from, and how to forgive yourself and start again with intention. We talk about purpose, motivation and self-doubt, why kindness to yourself is not optional, and how - particularly if you're self-employed - you can create your own validation. Matt shares practical ways to regulate your mental health, from journalling and movement to breathwork, meditation, nature and switching off screens, and why being proactive with these tools doesn't just prevent burnout, but makes life easier and happier overall.Matt's advice: Don't be concerned with archetypes, be what you want to beFace up to what you are - and work out why, where things come fromThen forgive yourselfStart again: what do you want?Try to be more purposeful, better motivatedIgnore the self-doubts and be kind to yourselfIf you're self-employed (no appraisal, no Christmas party) try to find substitutes for these thingsProvide your own validation, remind yourself of your own worthWhen things don't work out, don't always blame yourselfFind out how to regulate your mental health, what works for you (journalling/yoga/breathwork/meditation/nature/no screens)Be proactive about using these coping mechanismsImpose boundaries and stick to them (especially with social media)This will a) prevent burnout and b) make life easier and happier!FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2025 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod. Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Hamish Mackay-Lewis shares his advice on how to understand your imposter syndrome, explains why it is actually an experience rather than a syndrome and some simple things you as a founder can do to manage those sometimes sabotaging thoughts that can come into your head when going out on your own. Hamish's advice: Impostor experience is very common: feelings of inadequacy which can come and goOne advantage of these feelings is that you will prepare thoroughly and be highly motivatedThe disadvantage however can be feeling constantly anxious, doubting yourselfIt's important to celebrate yourself, not to constantly compare yourself with othersDon't set yourself unreasonable goalsObserve your thoughts; if you are noticing self-doubt, check in with others to get an  objective opinion about your achievements - and trust their opinionsRecognise where this self-doubt stems from (often from childhood) and come to terms with thisDon't bury the sadness / frustration / nerves; learn to accept and understand these uncomfortable feelings.  Face up to what is causing themConsciously choose your response to life; practise daily to be in the momentUnderstand what is important about your business, its bigger purpose, quite apart from any financial rewardsKeep a diary to record your satisfactions and frustrations and be attentive to what gives you energy and joyBe kind to yourself; remembering you are not alone with these feelings can give you resilienceAccept that you will always have nagging doubts and may never feel good enough; and at the same time recognise that you are, of course, perfectly good enough!If you'd like to contact Hamish you can reach him via hamish@hamishmackaylewis.comFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. Text us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

As the year draws to a close, many founders feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and stretched thin - while being told to relax, be festive, and switch off, but it isn't always possible. This trailer introduces How To Start Up's 12 Days of Christmas mini-series: a calm, practical collection of short episodes designed to support founder health during one of the hardest times of the year.With insights drawn from four years of conversations and over 140 guests, this special edit brings together expert guidance to help founders rest, reset and regain perspective.What this series covers:Imposter syndrome and how to work with it, not against it — with coach Hamish Mackay-LewisFounder mental health and self-reflection — with Matt JohnsonStress prevention and burnout — with Nina NesdolyUsing breath to regulate your nervous system — with Jamie ClementsNutrition and energy for founders — with Jenna Hope Mobility, posture, and physical resilience — with Tim BlakeySleep - with Professor Russell FosterPersonal branding boundaries and social media pressure — with Eshita Kabra-DaviesBuilding emotionally intelligent teams — with Daisy BirdMoney, cash flow, and the emotional weight of finances — with Rachel HarrisFemale founder health and working with your cycle — with LeNise BrothersProductivity culture and redefining success — with Emily AustenEach episode is 30 minutes, designed to be easy to take in - whether you're lying on the sofa, heading out for a quiet walk, or simply needing space to breathe.This is not hustle content. It's thoughtful, practical support for founders who need care, clarity, and steadiness as 2026 comes into view.

Today's episode of How To Start Up dives into the reality of building a business from the ground up or bootstrap, so without investors, without a big marketing budget, and without a safety net. Joining us is Aimee Connolly, Founder and CEO of Sculpted by Aimee and Sculpted: The Academy, the global beauty brand she launched at just 23 in 2016 using the €10,000 she saved from her part-time job.Less than a decade later, Sculpted is a multi-award-winning brand with over 140 products, stocked in nine countries and shipped to 68 markets worldwide - all built from a bootstrapped beginning.In this episode, Aimee shares what it really takes to fund your own idea, stay lean while scaling, and build a global brand by relying on resourcefulness, grit, and an unshakeable belief in your vision.Aimee's advice:Grasp opportunities when they present themselvesWhen starting up, take each task one at a time and don't allow yourself to be overwhelmed by considering the enormity of the whole projectThink ahead about a year so that you have resourcesBe patient, things may grow slowlyAlways have a grasp of the finances and don't be afraid to confront the realities of demanding paymentPlay on your special strengthsShow your authenticity by telling your own storyApplaud yourself for each winCustomer feedback is essential; cultivate a community in your customers (social media/direct messaging) which will help you move forward constructivelyTake care of yourself: sleep, exercise, diet all support you mentallyAim to have a support network where you can find adviceThe pros of being boot-strapped are that you are in charge, not just financiallyBut the cons could be that you have fewer contacts and less flexibility financiallyTake care when picking partners, as although this could be a huge asset, if it were to go wrong it could be very damagingFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Today we're joined by the brilliant Michelle Pughe-Parry de Klerk, founder of The Women's Chapter, the UK's first network for women in business to achieve B Corp certification.Michelle's journey is an extraordinary example of how a passion project, started on a shoestring as a side hustle, can evolve into a thriving, impact-led portfolio career. Since launching in 2014, The Women's Chapter has reached more than 30,000 women through events, thought leadership, membership and pro bono initiatives. Michelle also champions women and girls beyond the community through her work as an ambassador for The King's Trust Women Supporting Women, a UN Women UK delegate and a council member for Founders4Schools and Maths4Girls.In this episode you'll learn:• Why a portfolio career is an asset, not a failing, and how to recognise the skills you've built across different areas of work • How to decide whether your passion project should stay a passion or become a commercial venture • Why community isn't a “nice to have” but a biological, emotional and strategic necessity • How small businesses can use sustainability frameworks to drive meaningful impact, even without formal certification • What Michelle learned from becoming unexpectedly financially exposed and how founders can protect themselves • Practical ways to combat imposter syndrome using evidence-based techniques • Why connection lowers cortisol, boosts leadership ability and helps founders make better decisions • How niching down and staying in your lane creates focus, momentum and clarity • The role of conversation as a catalyst for collaboration and change • Networking is a form of self careFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Siff Haider one part of the co-founders due behind Arrae - the wellness brand that's redefining the supplement space with elegant, effective, natural solutions for issues like bloating, anxiety and sleep. Since launching in 2020, Arrae has gained a cult following thanks to its minimalist aesthetic, loyal community, and commitment to solving real, everyday problems - all while standing out in a saturated and often sceptical market.Stay tuned to hear how Siff and Nish approached brand-building with intention from day one, why storytelling and science go hand-in-hand and what it takes to grow in a crowded category.Siff's advice: Founder mindset tip: Have faith in yourself and trust your abilities.Leadership advice: Don't be ruled by ego; stay flexible and be prepared to change direction if necessary.Motivation lesson: Take one step at a time, steady progress is sustainable progress.Resilience insight: There will always be challenges; this is normal, and you can cope with them.Growth advice: Learn from your mistakes, apply the lessons, and keep moving forward.Perspective shift: Don't take challenges personally, they're all part of evolving and growing.Purpose-driven business tip: Think about your primary driver, which hopefully isn't just profit; purpose will motivate you to keep going.Lifestyle principle: Make personal rules about your life, your fitness, and your happiness and stick to them.Customer connection advice: Communicating with customers will always be worthwhile and deeply satisfying.Workplace culture tip: Create an environment that others will appreciate and thrive in.Branding advice: Be honest and clear in your branding, and always stay relevant to the customer.Inspiration insight: Look for motivation and new ideas in the world around you.Entrepreneurship lesson: If you're not making some mistakes, you're not truly pushing yourself or innovating.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Ella McKay, founder of FATSO, the unapologetically bold, brilliant and beautiful chocolate brand shaking up the confectionery world.Launched in 2022 after being dreamt up in lockdown, FATSO is on a mission to make chocolate fun again - big, chunky, and full of life - while doing things ethically and with integrity. Behind the humour and bold branding is a founder navigating motherhood, lean budgets, and the ever-shifting culture of work.Stay tuned to hear how Ella has managed imposter thoughts, turned limited resources into major visibility, and learned to prioritise both sales and operations without burning out in the process.Ella's advice:Imposter experience insight: be aware of your weaknesses (not insecurities) and accept that sometimes you just have to work on themAccept your vulnerabilities, don't be overwhelmed by themSupport-network lesson: Have a good mentor network and ask for help.  You can usually overcome self doubt by talking something through with someone.  But spend time first thinking it over, deciding who best to share withThere's a fine balance between sharing a problem and being swamped with too much adviceBudget-friendly growth tip: Be honest about what you can afford. Approach partners transparently and find people who want to grow with you.Sales-first strategy: Sales always come first. Everyone in the business should think like a salesperson — you can't build operations without revenue.Hiring advice for startups: Trust your gut. Look for energy, passion, curiosity, and the willingness to get hands-on. Not everyone is built for startup life.Motherhood and entrepreneurship: There's no maternity cover when you're the founder. Embrace help, drop the guilt, and remember — your child benefits from seeing you strive.Mindset for founders: Don't chase perfection. Start, iterate, and learn as you go. Values-driven business tip: FATSO wasn't started to make piles of money — it's about building a brand with purpose, humour, and integrity. Stay true to why you began.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Candace Bertram, founder of Studio88, a fast-growing Pilates community in Birmingham. After opening her first Reformer Pilates studio in November 2024, she expanded just six months later with a second location in Hall Green.What started as one small space has quickly become more than just a Pilates studio, it's a welcoming community where inclusivity sits at the heart. As a young, Black female founder and single mum, she has faced pushback along the way, yet her resilience and determination have carved out a space that is both empowering and trailblazing. Stay tuned to hear her insights on taking the leap from job security into entrepreneurship, navigating the realities of financial pressures, and how she's embedding diversity, inclusion, and true community into the very foundations of her business.Candace's advice: Community inclusion tip: Candace has always believed in building community and fostering inclusion.Customer experience insight: Her customers appreciate the security of a small space, familiar faces, and a feeling of safety.Entrepreneurship lesson: She was spurred into taking on a second studio simply by the belief that it was the right time and place.Mindset advice for founders: She didn't let imposter syndrome or external doubts hold her back. Instead, she trusted her timing and her vision.Business growth advice: She did not allow the pressure of fixing an opening date to dictate her decisions.Inclusivity approach: She believes in creating space for everyone, but if a female-only class is preferred, that's fine too.Hiring advice for fitness businesses: It's vital to find the best possible instructors who have an open mind, a positive outlook, enthusiasm for learning and improving, and strong communication skills.Leadership mindset: Try to adopt a philosophical attitude toward any problems that arise.Values-driven business tip: Always stick to your original aims and ethos, no matter how much you grow.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Jianne Jamil, founder of DIOME, a premium supplement brand developing science-backed formulas to support the demands of modern life. Inspired by her mother's decades-long struggle with prescription sleep medication, she set out to create effective, natural alternatives without the negative side effects. Before founding DIOME, Jianne built her career in the luxury beauty industry across New York, Paris, and London with La Mer, Tom Ford and Bobbi Brown. DIOME launched with Rested, an award-winning doctor-formulated, sleep supplement developed with her expert scientific team, including naturopath Emilie Delanoue and medical doctor Dr. Jencikova.DIOME launched with Rested, a doctor-formulated, sleep-optimising supplement developed with her expert scientific team, including Emilie Delanoue and Dr. Jencikova.Stay tuned to hear Jianne's insights on where to start with your NPD, building a science-led wellness brand, and how to market those premium products.Jianne's advice: Product launch advice: Efficacy is everything; your product must truly deliver resultsHealth industry tip: Do thorough research before entering this highly regulated spaceRegulatory compliance advice: Check laws in every country where you plan to sellSupply chain tip: Confirm ingredient availability before committing to productionQuality control advice: Test, test, and test again to build customer trustEntrepreneurship lesson: Use both data and intuition when deciding launch timingStartup growth tip: One hero product can be enough to build a thriving businessCustomer loyalty advice: Focus on longevity and building a faithful customer baseBranding and marketing tip: Position your product carefully, especially for a premium science-based brandBusiness integrity lesson: Cut no corners — reputation is everythingAgency collaboration tip: Brief your creative team thoroughly so they reflect your visionFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Neada Deters, founder of LESSE, a skin care brand redefining beauty through simplicity, efficacy and sustainability.Born in Sydney and now based in New York, Neada began her career as a beauty editor, interviewing leading experts and testing countless products. Yet her own struggles with cystic acne and reactive skin revealed a gap in the market for effective and natural skin care that worked for sensitive skin. In 2018 she launched LESSE, a self-funded business pioneering high-performance formulas that merge active botanicals with brilliant results.Stay tuned to hear Neada's insights on building a self-funded beauty business in a VC-driven industry, the lessons she's learnt in balancing simplicity with efficacy and how she's working to raise standards in the natural skin care space.Neada's Advice: Self-funded startups tip: Stay independent and fully in control of your visionBootstrapping advice: Grow at your own pace without investor pressureEntrepreneurship lesson: Build trust by prioritizing quality and ingredientsSmall business survival tip: Gain resilience by staying clear and focusedStartup motivation: Celebrate small wins along the journeyBusiness growth advice: Be resourceful, run a lean team, and know your numbersMoney management for entrepreneurs: Always keep cash flow top of mindFinancial planning for startups: Get advice from experts who understand small businessesWorking with your partner in business: Define clear roles from the startFounder health tip: Protect your wellbeing — it's one of your biggest business assetsWork-life balance for entrepreneurs: Learn when to push hard and when to restFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Today, I'm joined by Bruce Poon Tip, founder of G Adventures, the world's largest small group adventure travel company and a pioneer in community tourism. Bruce started the business 35 years ago with two maxed-out credit cards from his garage in Toronto and has since built a global movement rooted in purpose and impact.Recently awarded The Officer of The Order of Canada, Bruce returned to the Ecuadorian Amazon, the site of G's very first trip, to reflect on the company's legacy and plan for the next 100 years.In this episode, we discuss Bruce's approach to leadership, how he built a values-led culture, and what it really takes to create a business that changes lives, within his business as well as so many others.Bruce's Advice:Carve Your Own Path With New Ideas – True entrepreneurship means innovating and standing out from the competition.Find Your “Why” – Define your motivation and purpose to stay focused when building your business.Know Your Audience – Understanding who you serve is the foundation of successful marketing and growth.Define Your Unique Strengths – Highlight your skills and specialties that make your business different.Why Your Business Should Exist – Clarify the value and impact your business brings to the world.Your Business Reflects You – Every brand is a mirror of its founder's values and vision.Balance Creativity and Strategy – Innovators thrive with ideas, but lasting businesses need both creativity and solid numbers.Turn Crisis Into Opportunity – Challenges like the pandemic can fuel innovation and business transformation.Human Connection in the Age of AI – In today's AI-driven world, genuine human relationships and service are what set businesses apart. FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In this episode, we're joined by Richard White, founder of Fathom, the AI-powered meeting assistant that records, transcribes and summarises your video calls so you can focus on the conversation. Previously the founder of UserVoice, Richard brings deep experience in user-centric product design and has built Fathom into one of the fastest-growing tools in the productivity space.Stay tuned to hear Richard's insights on the early product decisions that drove Fathom's breakout growth, why their freemium model worked from day one, and how they engineered virality into the onboarding experience. We also dig into how to build AI products that people actually want to use, why storytelling matters even in a product-led company and how to stay focused on solving real problems in a rapidly evolving tech landscape.Richard's Advice:When launching a product, make sure it always works - not just some of the timeBe a target user yourself: what do I value?What feels like ‘magic' and appears to go beyond the possibleBuild things you yourself can and will useWord of mouth infinitely more valuable and trustworthy than, for example, an Amazon ‘review'When trying out what AI can do for your business be prepared to jettison ideas as you go - sometimes big onesUse humans for customer support; this is an area worth investing in FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we're joined by Daisy Bird, founder of BIRD PR, a creative communications agency specialising in luxury travel and hospitality brands since 2010. Daisy leads with a deep belief in the power of culture, emotional intelligence and building a people-first business. After 15 years in business, Daisy is cognisant of the investment this takes as well as the invisible skills a founder has to have to make a business succeed with a happy team as well.Stay tuned to hear Daisy's insights on the emotional undercurrent of running a business, why understanding personalities is non-negotiable in service industries, how she interviews, the value of psychometric testing and why investing in people is the best way to future proof your business.Daisy's advice: Align yourself with brands you respectIn this way you will be more effective; integrity mattersWhen employing, look for a range of talents and individuality - embrace differencesInvest in your employees: coaching is helpful for your team in areas like leadership skills and self-awarenessWellness retreats are valuable Employ people who are ready to learn and accept feedbackEncourage and reward employees who consciously add value to prove their worthYou must delegate; it's not sustainable to do everything yourself and leaves no room for creativity on your partAllow time to replenish yourselfIt's important to air and discuss female developmental/health stagesTake care of your loyal clients and don't give all your attention to the new and exciting onesFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Welcome to How to Start Up, the podcast that dives into the stories of startups, told directly by the founders. I'm Juliet Fallowfield, founder of Fallow Field & Mason, where we empower you to take charge of your storytelling via both PR & podcasting.In today's episode, we're joined by Rachel Harris, co-founder of striveX & founder of Accountant She. Passionate about financial well-being and running values-led businesses, Rachel has created a modern, cloud‑focused accountancy and tax advisory firm for both businesses and individuals alongside a platform for business owners to find accessible, consumable, financial education. Stay tuned to hear Rachel's advice on the highs and lows of running a business. Why loneliness is something that you should not ignore, what you should ask an accountant when you are vetting your first one, how they can become your business partner, how to manage people within the business, and so much more.Rachel's advice:Initially decide how much you want to delegateThen employ people more intelligent than you, and delegate to themWhen you choose an accountant, choose them according to your plans/expectations for your business; it helps if they can mirror your long-term goalsEstablish your communications preferences at the outsetBecause your accountant will be effectively your partner, research their core values and the infrastructure of their business firstCheck whether or not they outsource workAssess their values before you assess their technical competenceRachel believes in the value of therapyShe also believes in regular measuring of KPIsA very worthwhile benefits package will attract good employees if they are prepared to work hard for itEstablish systems and processes to free you upDon't underestimate the personal sacrifice and loneliness that being a founder can bringFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Welcome to How to Start Up, the podcast that goes beyond the headlines to uncover how startups really begin, straight from the founders who lived it. I'm Juliet Fallowfield, founder of FF&M, where we empower you to take charge of your PR and launch your podcast with confidence.In today's episode, we're joined by Chloë Luxton, founder of Bramley. With sustainability as a top priority, this company is providing customers with botanical magic through natural fragrances, bulk refill pouches, and recycled packaging.Keep listening to hear how Chloë got started and why slow growth was her friend. Also, her perspective on B Corp and the pros and the cons of getting certified as well as the pros and cons of being a founder and how to manage that isolation that can often feel relentless.Chloë's Advice: If it's a good product, free samples will really generate sales and boost reputationKeep up with developments in recycling (for example, compostable refill pouches)If sustainability is something you believe in, then it will make your choices more straightforwardSometimes it's complicated, but all you can do is make the greener choiceB-Corp will give your business recognitionIt's a good idea to make packaging which can serve a second purpose laterPackaging apart, it's what's on the inside - the product itself - that really mattersTake advantage of networking opportunities; put yourself out thereTo avoid isolation as a single founder, talk issues over with others whenever possibleFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, we hear from Caragh Keane, founder of SUPERKEEN. A shock lupus diagnosis in 2021 turned her world upside down and sparked a radical shift in her lifestyle. Refusing to settle for a life dependent on medication and steroids, Caragh took matters into her own hands—turning to food as a tool for healing. What followed was not just a personal transformation, but the birth of SUPERKEEN: a brand on a mission to make healthier, natural food options more accessible, supporting gut health and nourishing the body from the inside out.Tune in as Caragh shares how adversity became her launchpad, why she believes food is powerful medicine, and what it really takes to build a business with purpose.Caragh's advice:When you're new to entrepreneurship, it's ok not to know everything, eg. sales forecastingDon't strive for perfection straight away because you'll disappoint yourself; instead, learn and grow steadilyAs you work on building a business, take good care of your own health at the same timeStory-telling is vital in spreading your message and your missionUse a timeline to illustrate why and how you have developed as you haveIn sharing your motives you will allow others to share their own stories, and to identify with youBeing yourself is not self-promotion, it's inclusive and brings others inFind time to congratulate yourself on your achievementsFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Starting a business is tough & making sales in a challenging economic climate is even harder. So, resilience is key to keeping on track. But how can we manage rejection alongside the expected setbacks? To find out, I spoke with Lauren Currie OBE, Founder of UPFRONT, a global organisation upskilling 10 million women. Teams at Nike and Just Eat Takeaway have enrolled their teams in UPFRONT's Bond course to transform their team culture.Keep listening to hear Lauren's advice on developing resilience in sales & when to acknowledge you should probably cut your losses. Lauren's advice:Your energy is vital to running a business, so manage itAvoid those people who drain your energy and seek out those who replenish itMarketing equals revenue - the more you do, the more returns you will haveAccept the loneliness of the founder, which can be hardBe comfortable and confident about your pricingAlso, be very clear about your pricing so the customer doesn't have to work hard to find itWhen a potential client or customer approaches you for the first time, always ask them how they found youGet them to say yes or no as soon as possible!  Don't spend a long time courting a potential customer - move on to find someone newMake life easy for your clients: for example, don't let them have to work out time differencesDon't take rejection personally!If you need to make a customer more comfortable, include an older white man face in a callNurture yourself and your energy before you decide to quit: are you tired? Dehydrated? Hungry? FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Welcome to How To Start Up — the podcast that dives into the real stories behind the startups, side hustles & self-made successes. Jamila Brown is an American-German powerhouse who moved to London at 21 and after being told her life was “over” when she became a single mum at 24 — proved everyone wrong.From running Soho House's global ESG programme to discovering her knack for freelancing during a sabbatical Jamila's journey to founding her own impact agency is anything but linear — and that's exactly why it's inspiring.Today, she's a business owner, a mum of two, a wife and a sustainability and social impact champion. This is an honest, motivating chat about reinvention, resilience, and knowing your worth.Jamila's advice: Self-confidence helps!As does a sense of purpose/serviceBeing vocal makes you visibleIn my case, being a single parent helped concentrate my mind and made me use my time wellHaving good people skills, being outspoken and having drive are all importantRemember ESG matters, there is a point to itI had an idea and a smile - not a websiteEvery challenge is an opportunityDon't procrastinate, just do it and you will learn as you goFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

In today's episode, I'm joined by Emma and Kenny, the co-founders of HipPop — a gut-friendly drinks brand that's shaking up the soft drinks aisle. While many might have pigeonholed their product as just kombucha, Emma and Kenny have taken a bold and intentional route: positioning HipPop as a go-to soft drinks brand, not a wellness niche.We talk about what it takes to enter a new market, how branding beyond a product category can be a superpower, and why really listening to your customer is key. From humble beginnings in a farmhouse to securing shelf space in major retailers, their story is packed with practical insight for anyone launching into a crowded space.Emma & Kenny's advice:Test your products locally, in small independent businessesPublicise your ingredients and the provenance of the productTry to work within a representative area of the UKLook for a gap in the marketIf you have a personal reason for setting up the brand, people will love to hear itAfter rigorous testing, and building a local reputation, move on to website and Facebook marketingGradually approach bigger retailers (you will have to be dogged - and original - in pursuing buyers)When you scale, bring in people to cover the skills you don't haveAs you expand distribution, it's important to build relationships with the new people you are dealing with; go slowly and patientlyFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Welcome to How To Start Up, the podcast for anyone looking to start & scale their own business. I'm Juliet Fallowfield & today we're discussing viral marketing with Lucie Macleod, founder of the TikTok sensation, Hair Syrup.Founded in 2020 with no prior entrepreneurial experience, Lucie combined her understanding of consumer behavior with social media creativity, to turn a handmade hair oil into THE beauty must-have with over 350,000 engaged TikTok followers & rapid, 1,000% year-on-year growth. After an appearance on BBC Dragon's Den, the brand is now on track to hit £6.5 million in revenue by 2026.To hear our next guest's answer to Lucie's question at the end of this ep, just click follow in your podcast directory of choice & you'll receive a notification from us when it is ready for you to listen. Lucie's advice:Don't invest hugely to begin with; start cautiouslyDon't build on ‘pinterest appeal' with pretty packaging; functionality is what countsBelieve in your productStick at it when things get difficult; be doggedTiktok can be good if you strike luckyBe very careful spending on advertising as you can lose a lot of money if you're badly advisedAlso be very careful about the people you surround yourself with; if you wouldn't be happy with a particular person being in your house, then don't employ them in your businessTrust trumps skillLearn to step away from your business and fully relaxFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Building a direct-to-consumer (DTC) brand offers an incredible opportunity to connect with customers and foster long-term brand loyalty. But while the rewards can be significant, so too are the challenges and barriers to entry. That's why I wanted to speak with someone who has successfully navigated this journey for our season focus on sales.From modest beginnings in a Shoreditch coffee shop in 2011, David Abrahamovitch has built Grind into one of the UK's leading DTC coffee brands. Having built a hugely loyal customer base, it's estimated a Grind coffee is enjoyed every 2.8 seconds in the UK. David's business has also grown through partnerships with the likes of British Airways & Soho House. Keep listening to hear David's advice on how to build a DTC brand & how to leverage community-building to generate sales. David's advice:Accept that everything is sales; sell to yourself constantlyWith every small sale you are building a following and a brandPitching your product should not worry you; you know more than anyone else about it, so you have nothing to fearAlways know your numbers; but also tell the story of the history of the brand, and your plans for its futureBe optimistic - but not delusional!DTC is more work in that you have to have a website / attract people to that website / and  deal with the packaging and the postingWhereas  selling through a retailer you only need to advertise the productBUT DTC gives you access to customers' data and allows you to build a relationship with themSo selling through both the above is perhaps optimalAdvertising is essential for DTC selling - Facebook / Instagram / email / tube car panels are all useful; expect to spend up to 30% of revenue on marketing which will be a constant burdenRetaining customers is everything; the product must be a good oneIf customers unsubscribe, find out why so that you can fix the problemUse AI to help with small repetitive edits, not to replace people, just to speed up what they doIn order to attract young talent, create a culture that they will understand and like; always be thoughtful with your team and make sure they understand their job, their position and the company missionFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2024 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: Buzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

PWC reports that over 80% of consumers are willing to pay higher prices for sustainably produced goods so environmental responsibility is clearly a lucrative business as well as being the right thing to do. Laura Harnett is the Founder of Seep, the only B Corp-certified, plastic-free cleaning tool brand in Europe. Having raised a £50,000 Dragons' Den investment from Trinny Woodall & Deborah Meaden, Laura & her team are on a mission to stop 1 billion plastic cleaning tools from entering landfill by 2030.  Keep listening to hear Laura's advice on learning how to sell as a first-time founder & how to make your sales process as sustainable as possible. Laura's advice:As a challenger brand, having spotted a gap in the market you will need to ensure you are confident about your supply chain, packaging, etc. before you approach retailersSelling direct to customers via a website is a great way to gain approval / test - and perfect - your product / do some market research When iterating products, try them out with your direct customersThe evidence of your DTC sales enables you to approach big retailers with confidenceTarget your marketing emails carefully and thoughtfullyPersevere with this; it can take timeFacebook and Instagram ads are helpfulYou will find other founders provide you with advice and supportFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Starting a business is a huge effort, but scaling it to new heights takes a great deal of skill. So, I wanted to hear from a serial founder who has not only grown and scaled a multi-million-pound business, but also decided to start from scratch and do it again.Guy Blaskey founded healthy pet food business Pooch & Mutt in 2007. Having scaled it to £30 million in sales, he sold the business in 2023 for £11.5 million. Since then, Guy has founded Detrash to upcycle waste products into high quality watches.  Keep listening to hear Guy's advice on what he learnt about a sales strategy, selling a business & why laying the operational foundations is one of the most important things you can do. Guy's advice: Think about how you can do things differentlyDon't spend too long on your business plan; get going and make a plan afterwardsIf you need a retailer, remember it's less about the product (and less about you) and more about what makes your buyer's life easy: filling a gap in their range, price point etc.  Think about themAlways think about your customer and how you can help them achieve a resultIt takes time and rigour - and some failures - to get everything right and become a strong businessYou need a strong understanding of the finances; it's not just about the brandBudget properly; predict sales and follow throughDon't overfund early on; if you start small you can track the money and see what works and what doesn'tProduce the product and get going with a small budget before considering looking for VCMarketing and distribution channels are quite as important as the productWork on your business rather than in your business; in other words, delegate the knowablesFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends:  Buzzsprout for directory listingZencastr for recording remotely MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

When it comes to bringing a product to market, there are lots of aspects to consider before it reaches the shelves. To learn more, I wanted to hear from someone who has successfully launched products to market. Kinga Wilewska is the Founder & CEO of MUJO, the adaptogenic coffee alternative packed with vital nutrients. Having watched her dad lose his fight against cancer, Kinga developed a keen interest in adaptogens & set out to bring truly transformational products to market. Keep listening to hear Kinga's advice on sourcing feedback on your products & how to begin making sales. Kinga's advice:Always pay attention to costsSpend time sourcing ingredients carefullyResearch your market thoroughly and understand where the gaps areSpeak to strangers about what propels them to buy / what are their priorities / what packaging appeals to themPay continual attention to feedbackCommunicate with your buyers; see your product as a service for themRefine your pitch and your website to suit your marketYour brand needs to inspire trust and exude authorityAlways put quality over quantityBelieve absolutely in your product yourselfBe disciplined and honest with yourself (eg when you need help)Use Facebook to advertise - rather than use an agency (this can minimise spend and maximise reach)Minimise risks for first time buyers: guarantee them money back and absorb the shipping costs yourselfAlways be ready to learn some new way of reaching your marketFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the showText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

As any founder needs to conquer their fear of sales I wanted to interview a founder who rapidly grew a new sector. After overcoming chronic illness, Founder of LYMA, Lucy Goff, set out to redefine the wellness landscape and share her learnings. Since launching in 2017, LYMA has been at the forefront of science-driven wellness & health optimisation securing listings with Harrods & Harvey Nichols with its truly transformational & effective supplements. Keep listening to hear Lucy's advice on acquiring & retaining clients & what to consider when developing a loyalty programme. Lucy's advice:If you want to stand out, look differentSurprise peopleRemember everything is aiming towards a salePlan your PR stories in advance of the launch; that way you reduce any riskThe product will stand on its own; but the brand storytelling is what will set you apartThink about how your brand will resonate with customers and stand out in the marketplaceListen to your customers and engage with them; their feedback will be crucial Customers won't always want what you want to give themAny loyalty scheme should be designed around the product you are sellingA loyalty scheme should also repay the length of time your customers have stayed with youOn a personal level, eliminate fear and don't listen to your subconscious!FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

How to generate sales overseas?With only 11.9% of UK SMEs exporting their goods & services internationally, more support is needed to help businesses scale overseas. So, I wanted to hear from a founder who has generated millions in international sales. Thea Green MBE founded Nails.INC in 1999 at the age of 23 & has since revolutionised the UK nail care industry with her polishes & treatments. In 2013, Nails.INC was awarded a Queen's Award for Enterprise for international trade & today exports to over 20 countries. Keep listening to hear Thea's advice on how to get started with sales and then how to conquer exporting.Thea's advice: Concentrate on the customers' needsEnjoy working out what the next trend will beHave good PR when starting upFind the new angleIf you believe in it, you will be able to sell itKeep your standards highIt's easier to sell when there's a story to personalise the product and make it relevantListen to the customer and solve their problemsExcite the customerEngage with the customer and listen to themIt's essential to employ good sales peopleRenew your enthusiasm by concentrating on the aspects of the business you enjoyIt's helpful to consider your budget over the long termSales will be transformed when you become a brand; and when you do your first business overseasFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Thank you for joining us for How To Start Up's first panel event & first live recording of the podcast!  My name is Juliet, the host of How To Start Up  & just wanted to thank you for listening & joining today too. We're up to over 140 eps & having closed a successful season on all things productivity in December, I wanted to gather some of our guests together to discuss the topic & help listeners with theirs. I hope today will involve some myth busting on productivity plus that we have time for a Q&A with our panel.Firstly, introductions. Emily Austen is the founder of leading PR agency EMERGE & the author of SMARTER: 10 lessons for a more productive and less-stressed life. Having founded EMERGE in 2012, Emily has navigated entrepreneurship & discovered a tried and tested formula for avoiding unproductive busyness. Eva Alexandridis is a founder who has achieved that work / life balance. Having co-founded 111SKIN in 2012 with her husband Dr Yannis, Eva has not only built a globally recognised brand but has practised the brand values in ensuring she also looks after herself as well as her business. Anant Sharma is the Founder & CEO of Matter Of Form, a leading luxury brand & digital agency based in London. Having founded his company in 2009, Anant and his team work with some of the world's leading brands including Aman, Belmond & Knight Frank.  Anant in his ep shared how his ADAH impacts his work and how he manages it.FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Selling any product is a skill but selling a product with a luxury price tag is a nuanced skill. As this season is focused on sales I wanted to interview people with experience in differentiating their product in a crowded market & find out how they managed to sell it.Molly Goddard & Joel Jeffery co-founded the luxury pyjama brand Desmond & Dempsey in 2014. Over a decade the couple has redefined the concept of luxury sleepwear & secured listings in Harrods, Harvey Nichols & Selfridges very early on in their business. Keep listening to hear Molly & Joel's advice on how they tackled sales.Molly and Joel's Advice:Impart your message (in their case the benefits of relaxation) with positivity; buying this product is a treat for yourself, it's all about funIt's one thing to love your product but you must take sales seriouslyEnjoy the art of selling!  Share news of your product as widely as you can, and always in an optimistic wayPay attention to the market and always note customer preferencesAsk your clients questions, constantly monitor their tastes and their attitudesBe aware of daily sales; if you can achieve wholesale orders this will give you the freedom to take out loansWhen selling to retail clients, find your niche in the marketUse instagram / a website / word of mouth / email your customersPR will pay off and is a valuable toolBranding is important; while obviously the product must be good, you also need to make your customers feel special.  This is often achieved with some extra-special packagingYour customers are buying an expensive product and they should feel excited by both the purchase and the product, the anticipation and the realityFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

PureGym reports that 66% of Britons don't believe they look after their health as much as they should. Since good health is key to being productive, I wanted to hear from an expert about how founders can use fitness to boost their productivity. Following his retirement as captain of the England boxing team, George Veness, Founder & CEO of JAB Boxing Club in London, launched his business to make elite performance accessible to anyone & inspire his members to take control of their health. Keep listening to hear George's advice on how you can build fitness into your weekly routine as a founder & why exercise is so important for maintaining your productivity. George's Advice:Be pleased with your product before you start; believe in it and the team around you will tooPursuing fitness is a discipline, which will give you health and strengthIt will relieve stressAnd, just as important, it will give you self-belief, courage and emotional well-beingThe basics of fitness are nothing new. The essentials are: movement which leads to strength / rest and recovery (including hot and cold therapies) / good, natural food, fresh and not manufactured / good sleepWhen you are fit you will have better focus and clarity, you will make better decisions for your future life and you will be able to push boundariesKeep company with great peopleFollow a lifestyle with good habits and stick to your regimeDon't get distractedWhen you are making a long-term plan, break it down into manageable parts, like months; keep your end goal in sight and get there steadilyCelebrate milestonesEnjoy challengesTry keeping a diary where you write down what you plan to achieveKeep your vision simple; this way you will communicate it better both to your team and your customersFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Join Emily Austen, EMERGE & SMARTER, Anant Sharma: Matter Of Form & Eva Alexandridis, 111SKIN to learn their best productivity tips to help you achieve your 2025 goals. On 27th January at 12.30pm GMT, Juliet Fallowfield, host of the How To Start Up entrepreneurship podcast, will moderate the panel.Book via this link. All ticket proceeds will be donated to Cancer Research UK. We'll be hearing how these leading entrepreneurs structure their time to ensure they are productive, how they avoid burn out & overcome challenges presented by entrepreneurship. Expect myth busting, frank conversation & an opportunity to ask your questions to the panel. The How To Start Up panel:Emily Austen: Founder & CEO of leading PR agency EMERGE and the author of SMARTER: 10 lessons for a more productive and less-stressed life, published in November. Having founded EMERGE in 2012, Emily has navigated entrepreneurship and discovered a tried and tested formula for avoiding unproductive busyness. Anant Sharma: Founder & CEO of Matter Of Form, a leading luxury brand and digital agency based in London. Having founded his company in 2009, Anant and his team work with some of the world's leading brands including Aman, Belmond & Knight Frank. Eva Alexandridis: Co-Founder of leading international skincare brand 111SKIN. Eva has not only built a globally recognised brand since 2012 but has practised the brand values in ensuring she also looks after herself as well as her business. About How To Start UpHow To Start Up is the entrepreneur's ultimate handbook. With experienced entrepreneurs offering valuable advice on what to do now, next or never when starting a company, the podcast regularly features in Apple Podcasts' entrepreneurial charts and sits within the top 25% of all podcasts globally. Listen to all previous episodes here. If you'd like to learn how to produce your own podcast, drop us a line hello@fallowfieldmason.com Text us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

We know it's important to rest, relax & recharge to ensure we're as productive as possible, but how many founders actually prioritise this & how do we really achieve this? Eva Alexandridis is a founder who has achieved that work / life balance. Having co-founded 111SKIN in 2012 with her husband Dr Yannis Alexandrides, Eva has not only built a globally recognised brand but has practised the brand values in ensuring she also looks after herself as well as her business. Keep listening to hear Eva's advice on balancing work & family time plus how you can build a daily routine that works for you. Eva's advice: Be honest at the end of the day as to whether it's been a good one or not; then, if necessary, you can improve the next day It is possible to be a good mother and an efficient businesswoman; obviously you need trustworthy help when your children are very small, but from the age of five onwards, explain to your children what you do so that they appreciate its valueBe honest about your work commitments.  Your children will be proud of what you do, when it is explained to themIdeally your work challenges will be balanced by your sense of satisfaction/achievementTry running first thing in the morning, to clear your mind and energise youMake sure that family commitments come before any other social commitmentEva finds biking to work refreshing and energising (and she listens to podcasts so she is not thinking about work)Keep any exercise sessions sacrosanct - do not allow interruptions If you can, have work conversations out of the office, perhaps during a walk; being in nature will probably relax/inspire youEmploy people you trust.  Be careful when employing, as both hiring and firing can be very time-consumingEva finds electric cryotherapy energising!To avoid the feeling of being overwhelmed, appreciate what you have achieved and applaud yourselfGet energy from some positive reinforcement from clientsKeep meetings to 35-40 minutes and always have a break (preferably in the fresh air) between themFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts.Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

70% of us use phones for our work, yet we all know how much they distract us.  As productivity is crucial for any business I wanted to speak to an expert to help manage this necessary evil.Dr Kristy Goodwin is a neuro-performance scientist & Australia's leading expert on peak performance in the digital age. Her book Dear Digital, We Need To Talk enables individuals & organisations to enhance their performance & productivity in the digitally-intense world we live in & conquer tech distractions. Keep listening to hear Dr Kristy's advice on how to use digital tools to help us and not hinder, how to work in tandem with your neurobiology to achieve your goals & why rest really is a super power.Kristy's advice:Know your goals Success must be sustainableListen to your body; you cannot outperform itYou will have 4 - 6 hours a day of best performanceRemember that time spent not conspicuously working is often the most valuable productive timeFocussing our eyes on a small screen or area triggers a stress responseWe are programmed to sigh, or exhale fully, every five minutes; however, staring at screens typically means we are holding our breathWe are more successful if we can direct our focus and avoid distractionLeave margins - ie. blank spaces, unprogrammed gaps It is NOT about the hours you put in - it's about the outcomesBe clear to others about how you wish to be contactedIdentify when you are at your most productive You can bundle your notifications Have a VIP list and block everyone elseSleep is vital; get to know your own sleep pattern and keep it regularAs a founder, make sure you - and your team - enjoy not just the results of your work but the process itselfTech robs us of our time, our energy and our attention; be aware of this and take controlLive by design, not defaultFF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

Amid a proliferation of workplace tech platforms, Unily reports 77% of UK employees consider notifications from digital tools distracting. Despite being valuable in many areas, clearly workplace tech is hindering focus & productivity. So, I wanted to hear from an expert on how to stay focused at work. Phil Nayna is the Founder of Absolute Mind + Body: a coaching consultancy supporting businesses to build high-performing teams, resilient teams. Having trained in performance psychology, neuroscience, and a range of mindfulness techniques, Phil works with leaders & their teams to unlock untapped performance potential. Keep listening to hear Phil's advice on how to build sustainable focus, make the transition from busy to effective, and what to do to manage your energy, so you can stay focused for longer.Phil's advice:To be focussed, you can't be busyAvoid distractions; all your energy and attention need to be directed to one thingIt takes energy to suppress all the small details and distractionsIf there are things you tend to do every day, automate them so you don't have to keep making small decisionsPractise quick 2-3 minute meditations to clear your mind before each important activityIf your mind is quieter, decisions will be clearerMaintain your conviction about the core belief/mission of your business while you are undertaking minor activities - this belief will help you focus on themDoing something you care about releases dopamine which brings more motivation and focusIt's important that you take care of yourself physically Hours of sleep before midnight are more valuable than those afterAccept that you won't be 100% focussed all day every day; a good aim would be 2 x 2-hour sessions a day of really focussed deep work; the more trivial tasks can fill in the rest of the dayBe disciplined about avoiding distractions during those 2-hour sessionsImagine that you only have 3 hours a day to do what matters - this will show you what's important and what isn'tConcentrate only on the revenue-creating tasksTo avoid procrastination, you must Believe in what you're doing Address the fear which is preventing you doing the task Be clear in your head about why it needs doing and how to do it FF&M enables you to own your own PR & produces podcasts. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

The UK's Chartered Management Institute has previously found that 41% of managers believe having direct reports increases their own productivity. So, I wanted to hear from someone who has built a strong team to help them achieve more. Anant Sharma is the Founder & CEO of Matter Of Form, a leading luxury brand and digital agency based in London. Having founded his company in 2009, Anant and his team work with some of the world's leading brands including Aman, Belmond & Knight Frank. Keep listening to hear Anant's advice on discovering your strengths & how to build a team around you to enhance your own productivity. Anant's adviceYour business will evolve as you personally grow and change; you may have to let go of some initial ideasPrioritise what is important and what you should be doing; this may mean handing on to others the things you are experienced atConcentrate (without guilt!) on reflection / exploring opportunities / less quantifiable “work”Celebrate thinking time and allow space for it in your weekThere is no need to keep packing in information which is not always productiveBe modest about your daily to-do listHave belief in where you want to goKnow yourself and employ accordingly; you may require mirror personalities of yourself, or you may need strong support in those areas where you know yourself to be weakKnow the value of meditationFF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

The British Association for Counselling and Psychotherapy found that 96% of UK entrepreneurs admit to ‘bottling up' the stress of running their business. Many founders are clearly overwhelmed with too much on their shoulders, leading some to feel a sense of unproductive busyness. So, I wanted to hear from a founder who has cracked the code of productivity. Emily Austen is the founder of leading PR agency EMERGE and the author of SMARTER: 10 lessons for a more productive and less-stressed life, publishing this autumn. Having founded EMERGE in 2012, Emily has navigated entrepreneurship and discovered a tried and tested formula for avoiding unproductive busyness. Keep listening to hear Emily's advice on how founders can avoid becoming busy yet unproductive and why tracking your energy rather than your time can help unlock your productivity. FF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

It's challenging enough to be productive while building one company. However, productively building multiple ventures at once requires incredible focus & purpose. So, I wanted to hear from someone who has achieved this alongside several investor, advisor & board positions all while keeping purpose at the heart of every endeavour. Asad Hamir is the Co-Founder of Klyk, the sustainable IT company helping businesses tackle e-waste & reduce their carbon footprint. Alongside Klyk, Asad is also a Co-Founder of Ocushield, a clinician-led eye healthcare company. In addition to both his Co-Founder roles, Asad serves as a Non-Executive Director & investor in several tech & healthcare companies. Keep listening to hear Asad's advice on how to scale without losing productivity or purpose plus how to make your calendar work for you and not the other way round.Asad's advice:Any previous enterprises will have been valuable experience & will teach you what not to doAt the start of the week, agree weekly objectives / at the start of the day, define what needs doingAllow time each day for checking emails, don't leave them till the end of the dayLeave space for you to react to clients' needs if necessaryInitially you will be fire-fighting on every front; aim to get to a place where you can look at the big picture as well as the immediate problemsCelebrate both the big and the small wins - and keep your eye on bothTry using Calendly - but protect your timeSet boundaries for yourself and make sure your team understands those boundariesParcel the week up, eg. meetings on Mondays, and maybe a certain day each week to concentrate on something differentFocus is key; concentrate on one business at a timeDraw a line at a certain time and finish your dayPay attention to your health / fitness / diet and you will be more energisedBe open with your team and allow them to share your vision and plansB.Corp is a big help both guiding people inside the business and attracting people from outside who will want to work with youWrite your own job descriptionFF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

CIPD research shows that 67% of UK working women aged between 40 and 60 with menopausal symptoms had experienced a negative impact on their work, with 79% reporting feeling less able to concentrate at work. Clearly, hormones play a large role in the lives of female founders of all ages. I wanted to hear from a team with great experience in helping people overcome hormonal imbalances.  Margo Marrone, founder of The Organic Pharmacy and her daughter Roxy are the co-founders of eyeam, the solution-led skincare, supplements and education brand. Inspired by Roxy's experience with adult acne and hormonal imbalance, the duo are supporting people to overcome debilitating conditions which impact their energy both at work and at home. Keep listening to hear Roxy and Margo's advice on how founders can harness their hormones at work and how they can create a supportive environment for their teams too. Margo & Roxy's advice:Never go against what your body is telling youThe four different hormonal phases are effectively four different sets of skills:Follicular - energised, a good time to schedule and planOvulatory - communicative, a good time to set up talks and eventsLuteal - detail-driven, a good time to tackle paperworkMenstrual - a good time for rest and reflectionCommunication is important; there is no shame attached to your bodily cycle so share how you are feeling.  This is constructive and helpful for your colleaguesListen to your needs; you don't have to push to the limitsManaging hormones is not just a physical concern, it's a mental one too.  Understand why you are stressed and self-regulateWork smarter not harder; it's the output that counts, not the time spent.  Ideas which come when in the shower or on a walk can be so usefulQuick ways to reduce stress can be breathwork (4-7-8 breathing helps) and hummingNutrition means not just food but your whole environment: the people around you, the things you read and watch, as well as what you eatStop worrying about the to-do list; simply clear your head and tackle one task at a timeFF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

With Zippia reporting that happy workers are 13% more productive than unhappy workers, clearly it's crucial to maintain a supportive and welcoming company culture as you grow your business. Not only will this keep your employees motivated, but you'll also reap the benefits of higher productivity. So, I wanted to find out how to grow a productive and happy team. That's why I spoke with Katharine Pooley, Founder & Executive President of her eponymous luxury interior design studio. As one of the UK's foremost interior designers, Katharine has grown her team to fifty people and adeptly balanced maintaining a creative environment with ensuring her team gets stuff done. Keep listening to hear Katharine's advice on how to keep your team happy as well as productive as you scale and why thinking about the octopus effect can really help imbue each and every employee on a daily basis. Katherine's advice: Know your limit in terms of number of employeesThe happiness of your team is critical and will spring from:Enjoyment of the workGood collaborationBonuses, salary raises and perksKnowing each other wellBeing allowed autonomy and being trustedHaving a safe work environmentA pleasant office with a reasonable commuteBeing trained and having the opportunity for meetings and discussionsExamining a project after it has been delivered and discussing its good and bad pointsIf a team is a happy one, productivity will be the resultA happy team will be a loyal one and the longstanding employees will be so valuableLongstanding members can perhaps each manage their own teamIt's a symbiotic relationship between employer and employedYou need each other and ideally will stimulate each otherFrom the employer's point of view, when interviewing:Try to assess the candidate quicklyTrust the ones who speak with genuine warmth rather than the well-rehearsed speechesIt's important to like your employeesAvoid ones who chatter rather than answering the questionThose who can communicate and engage with you face to face will be strongestAs the boss make sure you tackle your emails every single nightIf you have children be up front with them about what you need to do (and then make the most of your time with them)Give yourself goals at the start of the year and check up on them in AugustRemember, your enthusiasm will be infectious to your employeesBe consistent Always be approachable; make yourself available at all times and respond to requestsTry to deal with problems yourself rather than handing them downBe prepared to forgive mistakesFF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the show

The Department for Education found in 2022 that 63% of UK adults hold multiple roles, demonstrating the extensiveness of the portfolio career. However, how do you create multiple roles for yourself and, importantly, ensure you deliver across them all? To answer this, I wanted to hear from an experienced portfolio career holder who manages several roles at once - as an M&A growth expert, angel investor and advocate for inclusive leaders Nnenna Onuba founded her first business, LBB Skin, in 2018, & has since built a mergers & acquisitions consultancy and the leadership & inclusion advocacy organisation 100 Allies. Nnenna also holds directorships with organisations including the British Beauty Council and the Royal Veterinary College. Keep listening to hear Nnenna's advice on separating your different roles and effectively balancing competing demands on your time. Nnenna's advice:You need plenty of life experience firstYou must know yourself and what you're good at, so you can hone in on your strengthsYou need to be the sort of person who enjoys continual learningTackle the tough creative tasks at the beginning of the day when your energy is highestWhen you are relaxed you will be more creativeAccept that as you age your energy levels may alter, and different times of day will suit you betterStay innovativeIf you mentor others you will learn from thisAttract people with different skills to your ownDon't be afraid to delegate important things and trust othersAdditionally, surround yourself with people who inspire youIf you tackle uncomfortable jobs you will get better at themIf you are properly self-aware you will be more observant of othersTry to do even one small thing that makes a differenceFF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. Let us know how your start up journey is going or if you have any questions you would like us to discuss in future episodes. MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the Show.

UK productivity was ‘24% lower in 2023 than it would have been had it continued climbing at the rates seen before the global financial crisis' according to the Economics Observatory. Given time is the most limited factor for any founder, for our eleventh season I've set out to find answers on how we can all improve our productivity in business.First up, I wanted to find out how to scale a business efficiently. So I spoke with Nina Briance, Founder & CEO of CULT MIA, the online fashion marketplace for the world's leading sustainable designers. Since founding CULT MIA in 2019, Nina has grown her business to become one of fashion's leading online retailers. Keep listening to hear Nina's advice on implementing the right systems for efficient growth and how to avoid duplicating work. FF&M enables you to own your own PR. Recorded, edited & published by Juliet Fallowfield, 2023 MD & Founder of PR & Communications consultancy for startups Fallow, Field & Mason.  Email us at hello@fallowfieldmason.com or DM us on instagram @fallowfieldmason. Let us know how your start up journey is going or if you have any questions you would like us to discuss in future episodes. Nina's advice:Always aim to achieve more with lessWhen you start you need a solid foundation of 1) clear processes 2) strong leadership 3) a business model which is scalable - that way you will be able to grow comfortablyTime block your calendar well in advanceAlways ask yourself WHY you are doing somethingKeep focussed on your long-term goalsLearn when to step back and let others make decisions (trust people and let them feel empowered)Save time by automating processes where this is possibleAll team members need to have a clearly defined role; a growing business does not necessarily need a growing workforceKeep auditing your thinking and structuresFF&M recommends: LastPass the password-keeping site that syncs between devices.Google Workspace is brilliant for small businessesBuzzsprout podcast 'how to' & hosting directoryCanva has proved invaluable for creating all the social media assets and audio bites.MUSIC CREDIT Funk Game Loop by Kevin MacLeod.  Link &  LicenceText us your questions for future founders. Plus we'd love to get your feedback, text in via Fan MailSupport the Show.