Secret Leaders

Millions of downloads, 400+ episodes and 7 years, it's time for a break. -------- Sign up to Wise Business banking: ⁠⁠⁠https://wise.com/uk/business/⁠⁠⁠ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: ⁠⁠⁠http://vanta.com/secretleaders

What if the secret to happiness, clarity, and success took just 5 minutes a day? In this episode, we sit down with Alex Ikonn — co-founder of the viral sensation The Five Minute Journal, used by the likes Emma Watson, Tim Ferriss, and millions of others. From being fired at a bank to building a 7-figure business and redefining personal fulfillment, Alex shares the mindset hacks, journaling techniques, and life lessons that transformed his journey.

In this episode of Secret Leaders, we sit down with Alex Kendall, co-founder & CEO of Wayve AI — the $1B+ British startup taking on Tesla in the race to build a driverless future. From raising $1.05 billion from Microsoft, SoftBank, and NVIDIA, to reimagining cities with AI-powered vehicles, Alex shares how his company is changing how we live, commute, and move goods. - Why do 1.2 million people still die on roads every year? - Why are cars asleep 96% of the time and what if they could work for us? - Could AI make driving safer than humans ever could? We dive into how Wayve's embodied AI competes with Tesla, why public trust is still the biggest barrier, and how your car might soon become your second living room. -------- Sign up to Wise Business banking: ⁠https://wise.com/uk/business/⁠ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: ⁠http://vanta.com/secretleaders

From pouring tea to billion-dollar deals — Frank Smith's rise to CEO of Matchroom Boxing is nothing short of legendary. In this exclusive podcast, Frank opens up about building global stars like Anthony Joshua, sealing game-changing partnerships with DAZN, and navigating boxing's Saudi-powered evolution. We dive deep into: The making of Connor Benn vs Chris Eubank Jr Saudi Arabia's billion-dollar impact on global boxing Dana White's entry, Jake Paul's influence & Matchroom's future Secrets behind Matchroom's mega-events (and their $25M darts empire) Whether you're a fight fan, entrepreneur, or sports business geek — this episode is your ringside seat to the future of boxing. -------- Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

What does it take to go from thinking "I'm not the type to start a company" to building a $2.5B startup that serves over 10,000 businesses? Christina Cacioppo, founder & CEO of Vanta, shares her raw and remarkable journey in this episode of Secret Leaders In this candid interview, we dive into Christina's path from Stanford to Silicon Valley royalty—funding startups like Twitter and Etsy, then jumping into the deep end to teach herself to code. Learn how she went from solo builder to unicorn founder, the scrappy early days of Vanta, why she waited until $10M ARR to raise funds, and the lessons she picked up alongside the founders of OpenSea and Substack at Y Combinator. Topics We Cover: Leaving a dream VC job to learn to code  Building failed side projects and what they taught her Working at Dropbox during hypergrowth The real story behind launching Vanta Why “doing things that don't scale” worked AI at Vanta and what's next Overcoming imposter syndrome as a young female founder _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

Discover how Tom Kerridge went from washing dishes to building a £40M hospitality empire. In this episode of Secret Leaders, we dive into the raw truth behind restaurant success (and failure), why most places don't make it, and how Tom hustled his way to the top—without any business background, investors, or MBA. Pre-order Tom's new book: "The BBQ Book: 80 Delicious Recipes for Fire and Coals".. What You'll Learn: The real economics behind restaurant pricing and margins How Tom built the world's first 2 Michelin-starred pub, The Hand & Flowers Secrets to turning passion into profit in the hospitality industry Leadership lessons from the heat of the kitchen Why most restaurants fail—even when the food is great Hosted by Dan Murray-Serter & Chris Donnelly, this interview breaks down the mindset, risk-taking, and raw resilience it takes to thrive in one of the toughest industries on earth. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

From the first banner ad in 1994 to programmatic mobile ads, the internet as we know it was built on one thing: advertising. In this explosive episode of Secret Leaders, we break down the untold story of how ads didn't just fund the web—they engineered it. You will learn: The birth of banner ads with AT&T's legendary 44% CTR Google AdWords' rise and the search ad revolution How Facebook's targeting reshaped elections Mobile & programmatic ads that track your every move The next frontier: Ad-powered payments Watch our full interview with Philip Belamant on our feed now. He runs Zilch - the fintech redefining payments and ad performance. With a model that's 26.5x more efficient than Google Ads, Zilch is pioneering the future of attention-based commerce. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

Is this the man who could end the global credit card crisis? In this explosive episode of Secret Leaders, we sit down with Philip Belamant, the visionary founder of Zilch — the UK fintech unicorn that's rewriting the rules of credit, debt, and how we pay. Most people know Zilch as a "Buy Now, Pay Later" app — but it's way more than that. It's an interest-free payment model that flips the credit card industry on its head… all while quietly becoming 27x more effective than Google Ads What we cover: Why credit card debt is a trap — and how Zilch is helping people escape it The shocking truth: The average UK citizen takes 16 years to pay off a credit card How Zilch funds 0% interest payments without hurting consumers The new payment system that could replace traditional credit What it takes to fight against billion-dollar legacy lenders Why Zilch's advertising model funds debt relief — and beats Google in the process The UK's role in the global fintech revolution _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

You've seen them—the red-faced, power-tripping, emotionally disconnected CEOs barking orders while morale sinks. But how did we get here? And more importantly… how do we fix it? This isn't just another workplace rant—it's a deep dive into the dark psychology of leadership, the gendered traits that dominate boardrooms, and the systemic bias that keeps emotionally intelligent leaders out of power. In this video essay, we expose, why toxic traits like dominance & cold toughness get rewarded, how history, stereotypes & corporate pipelines keep weak men on top and roadmap to build better leadership—without sacrificing results. This week, we're dropped an interview episode with Sam Conniff—serial entrepreneur and the mind behind the #HardAsNails campaign. He's shaking up outdated norms about what it means to be a man and a leader. We unpack how to spot toxicity in yourself, your colleagues, even your friends—and how to build something better. It's raw, real, and packed with insights. Watch Sam Conniff Interview on our profile now.

What does "toxic masculinity" really mean? In this powerful episode, Sam Conniff dives deep into the crisis of modern masculinity, exploring how society has shaped a generation of men caught between weakness and toxicity. Sam shares his growing concern for younger men, especially after experiencing Andrew Tate's controversial online course first hand. With Tate's influence surging, amplified by the recent Netflix hit Adolescence, a show that exposes the dark side of online radicalization, Sam questions how these messages are shaping vulnerable minds. Drawing from personal insight and time spent researching the topic, Sam reveals why we're failing men and offers a bold roadmap to fix it, redefining strength, purpose, and connection for the next generation. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

Ever wondered how Burger King pulled off one of the slickest marketing stunts ever—racking up 1.5 MILLION app downloads in just ONE WEEK by targeting people standing INSIDE McDonald's stores? _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders

Are your daily habits killing your motivation? Neuroscientist TJ Power, once a self-confessed dopamine junkie reveals how phones and quick fixes tanked his focus and ambition. He broke free from phone and alcohol addiction with his D.O.S.E framework (Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, Endorphins) which has helped him reduce stress, boost sleep by 54%, and turned ambition into action with his 30-minute rule to reboot your brain and reclaim your drive. In this episode TJ provides you with science-backed hacks that help you ditch the morning scrolls, master flow state, and feel peace as an entrepreneur. Trust us when we say that TJ's raw story and practical tips will hook you instantly! _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Imagine losing 8,000 Bitcoins—now worth over half a billion pounds—because someone threw out your hard drive. In this episode of Leaders Chat, Dan and Chris dive into this jaw-dropping story, dissect Tony Khan's daring strategy to keep AEW a family-run powerhouse, and dish out must-know entrepreneurial tips for aspiring business owners. What's your opinion on family businesses—smart move or risky gamble? Hit subscribe and drop your thoughts in the comments! _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Savile Row is one of the most prestigious shopping streets in London, and with just £10,000, Sean Dixon transformed his brand, Richard James, into one of the city's most sought-after tailors. From designing Sir Alex Ferguson's iconic coat to hosting Elton John and Oasis in his shop at the same time, Sean shares the journey of relentless hard work and dedication it took to break into such an elite market. He reveals how Richard James became a magnet for A-list celebrities and the pivotal moments that helped shape the company's success in the world of luxury fashion. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Has anyone seen how CASUAL Elon Musk's text messages were when trying to convince billionaire to invest in X? We will be discussing how common this actually is as well as how Elon's Grok 3 has emerged has the top AI platform despite behind 5 years behind ChatGPT Then Dan and Chris finish of by answering some of your business questions to help you on your entrepreneurial journey _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Want to build a killer marketing campaign? Look no further than our interview with PR expert Emily Austen who does exactly that for global giants Red Bull. She takes us some through some of the most successful PR campaigns ever including how Barbie and Oppenheimer clashed on purpose?! and the powerful hacks that you can start using right now to make your campaigns go viral and stand out from the crowd. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Rolex is one of the most iconic and prestigious brands in the world, generating an incredible $11 billion in annual revenue. But here's the shocking twist—Rolex doesn't make a single dollar in profit. So, where does all that money go? And how does Rolex continue to dominate the luxury watch industry without traditional profits? In this episode of Secret Leaders, we uncover the fascinating truth behind Rolex's unique business model, its non-profit ownership structure, and why it reinvests billions instead of pocketing profits. ______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meet the man behind CRAFTD, the Shopify hit that has made him $100 million. This is a man who has experienced it all on his entrepreneurial journey. From car boot sales, to buying out his bosses, creating the iconic Cristiano Ronaldo billboard and ending up in $300k worth of debt. He will be sharing with us everything he has learned along the way and the unique steps he has taken to build an E-commerce powerhouse in CRAFTD _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/ Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Did you know Domino's used to give out Rolex watches to top-performing franchise owners? Or that LEGO rewarded its employees with solid gold bricks? Some companies go above and beyond to take care of their people. In this episode of Leaders Chat, we break down some of the most surprising employee perks—from Airbnb's $2,000 annual travel credit to Zappos' bold “Pay to Quit” policy. Dan also shares his full-body health analysis, covering everything from vitamin tests to cancer screenings. How does this all tie into Brian Johnson's quest to live forever? Watch to find out.

From a humble bricklayer to building a $40 million honey empire, Scott Davies is living proof that with relentless determination and a never-say-die mentality, anything is possible. Scott's journey, which began with self-doubt and uncertainty, evolved into the story of an entrepreneur who overcame immense challenges to transform his business into what it is today. Now, his honey is stocked in over 500 Tesco stores across the UK, and his company proudly produces 25% of Britain's honey supply. This is not just a story of success, but also a heart warming tale of perseverance and personal growth. _______________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is Chris more influential than Bill Gates? This week, we explore Chris's rise to the top as LinkedIn's number one ranked creator and dive into the ongoing battle between Deepseek and ChatGPT. Plus, did you know YouTube started out as a dating site?! We're also excited to introduce a brand new segment to the show, where we react to some of the wildest LinkedIn posts shared by the popular creator behind "State of LinkedIn." ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleadersTitle: Wealth Expert: Unlock This Mentality to Make $10K a Month - Sahil Bloom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Everyone wants to make money, and many view it as the ultimate path to happiness. But for Sahil Bloom, money is merely the by product of discovering what truly brings you joy and fulfilment. In this incredibly insightful episode, we sit down with Sahil, a wealth expert, to explore the deeper side of success. Sahil shares how financial wealth is not the goal, but a natural outcome of pursuing your passion and aligning your life with what genuinely makes you happy. We delve into the mindset required to build lasting wealth—not just financially, but in a way that brings balance and satisfaction to your life. Sahil's unique perspective challenges the conventional wisdom of chasing money for its own sake, encouraging listeners to focus on their passions, purpose, and personal growth. In doing so, wealth becomes not just a goal, but a reflection of the meaningful life you've built. This episode will inspire you to redefine success on your own terms and develop the mindset to create both financial and personal fulfilment. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleadersTitle: Wealth Expert: Unlock This Mentality to Make $10K a Month - Sahil Bloom Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No one truly understands the brutal truth of going through an exit process and this week Chris gives us a raw insight into the reality of what really happens behind the scenes of seeing the company you have put your life into build suddenly in someone else's hands. Everyone will always look at the financial side of this discussion, but it is always a lot deeper than it seems. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tom Beahon, the co-founder of Castore, reveals how he took on global giants Nike and Adidas—and won—in just 9 years. Tom takes us behind the scenes of Castore's rise, revealing what really goes on in the world of sports sponsorship deals and how he navigated a highly competitive industry. He also tells the fascinating story of how he convinced tennis legend Andy Murray to sign with Castore over more established brands, even when no one had heard of them. From the challenges of building a brand from scratch to competing with the biggest names in sportswear, Tom offers invaluable insights into the mindset and strategies that made Castore a major player in the industry. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this fascinating episode, we dive into some of the strangest businesses you never knew existed! From companies that allow you to hire bridesmaids to look the part at your wedding, to services where you can literally rent someone's time to stand in line for you, these unusual ventures are taking the business world by storm. We explore the creativity behind these unique ideas, the surprising demand they fill, and how their founders turned seemingly bizarre concepts into thriving businesses. This episode will change the way you think about entrepreneurship—and who knows, you might just discover your next big idea! ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Matthew Pohlson has built Omaze into a unicorn business through some pretty unconventional ways - convincing the Pope to sell his Lamborghini, sending someone to space with Richard Branson and giving away multi-million dollar mansions for $10. All whilst giving away over $300M to charity. This is one of our favourite interviews ever. From a business burning cash into a unicorn business that actually does good, Matthew's journey has been incredible, and you haven't even heard about how dying for 4 minutes made him an even better leader. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Dan shares the incredible journey behind the recent success of his company, Heights, now generating $1.5 million per month in revenue. He reveals the one simple change that transformed the business and led to this massive growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to scale your own company or just curious about the secret to success, this episode will offer valuable insights you can apply to your own journey ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Andy Coulson was once the face and leader of the most powerful newspaper in the country, News Of The World, and later became the Prime Minister's right-hand man as Director of Communications. Then he lost it all. After scandals and a prison sentence, Andy founded his own consultancy, Coulson Partners, helping people navigate personal crises and reputational attacks. In this episode, Andy shares his unique insights into managing a crisis, drawing from his own experiences. He breaks down what a crisis really is and the steps you can take to protect and rebuild your reputation when under attack. From public figures to everyday individuals, Andy's approach offers invaluable lessons in handling life's toughest moments. Join us for a powerful conversation about resilience, crisis management, and the art of recovery. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this week's Leaders Chat, we discuss Trumps upcoming inauguration and why we have simply stopped caring about politics. We also debate an interesting question: should CEOs earn 196x more than their employees? We break down what drives these massive pay differences and ask if they're truly justified. Is the value CEOs bring really worth such a huge pay gap, or is it an outdated model of corporate leadership? Join us for an eye-opening discussion on leadership, politics, and inequality. ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with Nicola Kilner, former CEO of The Ordinary, to dive deep into the unique story behind her journey in building a $2 billion company. Nicola shares the highs and lows of her path to success, including the challenges she faced as a leader and the pivotal moments that shaped her career. We discuss why her Co-CEO fired her and what that experience was like as well as revealing her leadership superpower and why she decided to pay everyone in C-suite the same salary as herself for a period of time. Additionally, we explore her thoughts on why women suffer the most from working from home and the impact it has on their careers. ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and receive $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode Chris Donnelly and Dan Murray Serter, each with over 17 years in the game, share the ultimate guide to starting a business in 2025. They cover everything from identifying the best industries to enter, to building a team and scaling your idea into a thriving company. If you're wondering where the biggest opportunities lie in 2025, or how to navigate the new market landscape, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you succeed. Whether you're just getting started or looking to grow, this is the essential roadmap you need to set yourself up for success. ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with the entrepreneur who built the UK's biggest company, worth an astonishing $176 billion, from an initial $50 investment. He shares the exact steps and strategies he used to scale a small startup into one of the world's largest companies, proving that massive success can come from the smallest beginnings. He also reveals how he played a pivotal role in saving Apple, and what it was really like working with Steve Jobs during that critical time in the tech giant's history. The entrepreneur also gives his verdict on the 4 breakthrough technologies that have the power to change the world. From his firsthand experience of building a tech empire, he offers rare insights into the future of innovation and what it takes to succeed at the highest level. ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/uk/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=Secret+Leaders_1H+2025&utm_content=Wise+Business Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this video, leading entrepreneurs and experts dive deep into one of the most pressing questions of our time: Is artificial intelligence going to ruin the world? With AI evolving faster than ever, concerns about its impact on jobs, society, and our future are growing. This insightful discussion covers the benefits, risks, and ethical challenges of AI, exploring whether it's a force for progress or a threat to humanity. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or simply curious about AI's future, this video offers expert insights you can't afford to miss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into three incredible stories that blew our minds. Lionel Barber recounts his chilling experience interviewing Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin, giving us a rare insight into what it's like to sit face-to-face with one of the world's most powerful leaders. James Watt, co-founder of BrewDog, shares the shocking moment when he lost $50 million and Finally, Deborah Meaden takes us back to her early days, offering a fascinating glimpse into her entrepreneurial life before she became a household name on Dragons' Den. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Looking for the best books to fuel your success in 2025? In this video, we dive into the top books that have shaped our entrepreneurial journey and made a lasting impact on our lives. Whether you're just starting out or you're a seasoned business owner, these books offer invaluable lessons on leadership, strategy, mindset, and growth. We'll discuss how each book transformed our thinking, improved our decision-making, and helped us navigate the ups and downs of building a business. From timeless classics to the latest game-changers, these reads will inspire and equip you to take your business to the next level. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Every entrepreneur dreams of disrupting an industry, but few have done it as boldly as today's guest. In this episode, we dive into the story of a visionary who took on billion-dollar skincare giants like L'Oréal and Nivea—without any prior industry experience—and became the #1 men's skincare brand in France. He rejected conventional practices, bypassed traditional retail, and found success by challenging the status quo in one of the most established markets imaginable. What makes this conversation even more fascinating is how our guest spotted what the beauty behemoths overlooked: their greatest strengths had turned into their biggest weaknesses. Their size, reliance on traditional retail, and outdated strategies blinded them to how men actually want to shop for skincare products. Our guest's innovative approach disrupted the industry and proved that sometimes, the most obvious opportunities are the ones industry leaders are too entrenched to see. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur looking to identify a market gap or someone ready to challenge industry giants, this episode is packed with insights on how to seize opportunities hiding in plain sight. Tune in to discover the strategies behind this ground-breaking success and learn how to apply them to your own business journey. ______________________________________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As series 7 draws to a close, in this episode we sit down to chat about some of our favourite episodes, our personal highlights, some of our regrets and how Dan got rejected by Deborah Meaden. ____________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Caspar Lee opens up about why he decided to leave his YouTube career behind, despite having 7 million followers, to focus on a new, exciting chapter: becoming a successful entrepreneur. Caspar reveals the challenges he faced as a content creator and how his passion shifted towards helping other YouTubers build long-term financial security. Now, he's using his experience to invest in fellow creators, helping them turn their earnings into sustainable wealth. Discover Caspar's journey from viral sensation to investor, and how he's transforming the future for YouTubers by making their money work for them. ____________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode we discuss Dan's embarrassing moment as the first guest on diary of a CEO, we reflect on some of our recent episodes and discuss How Lily Allen and Kate Nash are making the most of OF and we do it all in our brand new studio! ____________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this eye-opening episode, we sit down with Dom Smales, founder of Gleam Futures, to discuss why the creator economy is on the verge of collapse and what creators must do to avoid losing their audiences. With a wealth of experience managing some of the biggest names in the industry, including Zoella, Dom shares his insights on the shifting dynamics of the creator landscape. We explore why creators are at risk of losing their influence if they don't adapt, and how they can successfully transition from influencers to entrepreneurs. Dom also reveals the key traits and strategies that helped his most successful talents, like Zoella, rise to the top and sustain their success over time. Whether you're a creator or entrepreneur, this episode is packed with actionable advice on how to navigate the challenges of the evolving creator economy and secure long-term success. ____________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dan and Chris speak with the Founder of a £2 billion brand that takes the bold step of shutting down on Black Friday — the biggest shopping day of the year — and how they continue to thrive! ____________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

AI bots have scraped 6 billion words of content from Mumsnet. Justine Roberts (Founder of Mumsnet) isn't going away without a fight. In this episode she reveals why she's suing AI and warns of its potential to destroy the future of content creators. She also reacts to the unfair treatment of women entrepreneurs and shares the challenges she's faced throughout her own entrepreneurial journey. Plus, she breaks down why Mumsnet's 9 million users hold significant influence over UK elections. Don't miss this insightful conversation about AI, gender inequality, and the political power of one of the UK's most influential platforms ___________ Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_sou... Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with BrewDog founder James Watt to dive into the story behind one of the world's most disruptive beer brands. From bold marketing stunts to growing BrewDog into a global craft beer giant, James shares the entrepreneurial insights that helped him take the company to the next level. James also opens up about the constant media scrutiny he faces, why BrewDog often attracts bad press, and how he handles the challenges of being in the spotlight. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking for inspiration or curious about BrewDog's unconventional journey, this episode is packed with valuable lessons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This Episode is sponsored by Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism (DET). Discover why Dubai is the ultimate business hotspot here: http://www.dubaibeyondpossible.com AD In just 64 years, Dubai transformed from a small fishing village into a global hub for trade, technology, and innovation. This video explores what drove Dubai's rapid evolution thanks to its world-class infrastructure and business-friendly policies. We dive into Dubai's status as a magnet for global talent with initiatives like the Golden Visa program and its thriving free zones. Dubai's forward-thinking approach includes investments in AI, fintech, and space exploration, securing its place as a leader in technology and economic growth. With ambitious plans like the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, Dubai's future is as bold as its past. If you want to understand how Dubai became a global powerhouse and what lies ahead, this video is your ultimate guide. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Richard Harpin turned a simple home repair service into a $5.3 billion empire with Homeserve. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or seasoned business owner, Richard reveals the secrets behind scaling, leadership, and resilience and shares the 8 crucial business lessons that will help you achieve long-term success. Get ready for actionable insights from one of the UK's top entrepreneurs! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the whirlwind that's been Elon Musk's acquisition of Twitter and why it might be his most advantageous move to date. From making headlines with his partnership with President Donald Trump during the election to dominating the news cycle ever since—Elon's influence is skyrocketing. But why did he buy Twitter? What's his master plan? We break down the history of Twitter, the motivations behind the $44 billion deal, and speculate on what Elon might be plotting for the platform's future. Is he reshaping free speech, aiming for political power, or just playing the long game with tech and influence? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with the legendary Deborah Meaden to dive into her incredible entrepreneurial journey—from her early days starting up in business to becoming a household name on Dragons' Den. Deborah shares candid stories from her time on the show, offers invaluable tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and reveals key lessons she's learned along the way. We also explore her passion project: a brand-new book aimed at teaching kids about money management at a young age. If you're looking for inspiration, business advice, or insights into how to empower the next generation, this conversation is a must-watch! ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=secret+leaders_2H+2024&utm_content=Wise+Business Thanks to HP our sponsor for this episode. For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the UK's 2024 Autumn Budget, a pivotal moment in British history. With Labour delivering their first budget in 14 years and the first female Chancellor leading the charge, there's a lot to unpack. We discuss the £22 billion black hole in the nation's finances, the biggest tax shake-up in a generation, and Labour's promise to avoid raising taxes on working people—meaning no increases in VAT, National Insurance, or Income Tax. But what does this really mean for businesses and entrepreneurs? How will these changes impact the UK economy, and more importantly, how do we address the growing debt crisis? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Timo Boldt's journey to turning Gousto into a billion-dollar company is a remarkable tale of resilience. Despite facing rejection on Dragons' Den, Timo founded Gousto in 2012 from his one-bedroom flat with a vision to revolutionize home cooking using technology and data. Today, the meal kit delivery service delivers over 1.5 million meals each month, showcasing significant growth potential in a market projected to reach $27.33 billion by 2028. In this interview, Timo shares insights on his transition from finance to food tech, the impact of AI on personalizing food choices, and the future of home cooking in an age of convenience. Join us as we explore the challenges of scaling a startup and Timo's vision for the evolving food industry! ——————— Sign up to Wise Business banking: https://wise.com/gb/business/?utm_source=secretleaders&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=secret+leaders_2H+2024&utm_content=Wise+Business For 10% off the HP Omnibook UltraFlip with built-in AI, use code 'HPLOVEWORK'. Valid until 31st January 2025, UK only. T&Cs apply. https://bit.ly/HPOmnibook-SLQ424 Join Vanta and recieve $1000 off: http://vanta.com/secretleaders And a special thanks to Qube for letting us use their incredible podcast studio in Canary Wharf, London to film this episode. Mention “Secret Leaders” as a referral to waiter the joining fee: https://theqube.com/membership/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive into the unique business model of Sam Harris, a philosopher, neuroscientist, and best-selling author who's redefining how to make millions—by charging nothing. We break down how Sam has built a thriving platform by offering his content for free, while giving his audience the option to support his work through voluntary contributions. Learn the psychology behind this bold strategy, how it's reshaping the traditional business landscape, and why it's a model more entrepreneurs should consider. Tune in to discover how Sam Harris is proving that sometimes the best way to earn is by giving first. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices