Founded & Grounded

Ollie Collard & Dr Becky Sage

UK's No.2 ranked startup podcast. We bring you the honest realities of startup life, from early-stage founders who are only a couple of steps ahead.

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Episodes

SOS Dance Global: Choreographing change and empowering a generation
Mar 18 2024
SOS Dance Global: Choreographing change and empowering a generation
Entrepreneurship is a lot like dancing; both require resilience, adaptability, and the courage to step outside your comfort zone.Find out how one startup, SOS Dance Global, is combining these elements to reach the top of the industry. This is a story of empowerment, resilience, and defying the odds.Bonnie Parsons, shares her remarkable journey from professional dancer to pioneering entrepreneur, and how she's empowering a generation of women through the universal language of dance.Key Takeaways- How to confront challenges head-on. Hear the harsh truths behind the obstacles facing female founders and the keys to success in balancing entrepreneurship and motherhood. - Empowerment as strategy. For Bonnie, she's clear on her mission to positively impact lives globally, providing strength and confidence to women. - Scaling up requires a transformative mindset, implementing systems, and spreading culture and processes for business growth- Persistence pays off. Building a startup is a long game where patience, strategic planning, and understanding your worth are essential ingredients for success.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Rare Founders: How one entrepreneur turned his failed startup into a community empowering platform
Mar 4 2024
Rare Founders: How one entrepreneur turned his failed startup into a community empowering platform
Experiencing the collapse of a startup can be devastating, yet for Vasily Alekseenko, it was the catalyst for change.  After witnessing the dark side of fundraising, Vasily took matters into his own hands. Rare Founders was born with a simple mission to connect founders and investors. This is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersection of networking, pitching, investment, and the magic that happens when founders come together to uplift one another.We discuss the importance of diversity in the investment landscape, the significance of community, and the future of early-stage funding.Key Takeaways- How to be more resourceful and do more with less. Focus on creative solutions and confidence in your vision - How to overcome your insecurities and pitch with confidence- Fun as a foundation. How to inject fun into your startup and gamify life as a founderHave questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Sharesy - Growing communities one local authority at a time
Feb 19 2024
Sharesy - Growing communities one local authority at a time
The innovator turning forgotten spaces into thriving community hubs. Meet Felix Atkin, founder of tech startup Sharsey - the Airbnb for community spaces. What stemmed from a personal problem of trying to book a local venue for his kids' birthday party has blossomed into a business that has already generated over £1million in bookings. Felix delves deep into his journey, unveils the strategic steps behind Sharesy's considered growth, and shares invaluable insights on coping with the demands of startup leadership.Key Takeaways- Self-Care Is Paramount. Amidst the drive for success, remember that personal well-being is crucial for sustaining long-term ambition.- Resilience in Fundraising. Embrace rejections as learning opportunities. Maintain transparency with your investors and lean on your support network during challenging times.- Learn the secret of how to context switch  between high-level strategic planning and the nitty-gritty of day-to-day operations in your business- How to win at founder-led salesHave questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
envoPAP: Turning waste into sustainable wealth
Feb 5 2024
envoPAP: Turning waste into sustainable wealth
Meet Kaushal Shah, the impact entrepreneur behind envoPap, who is on a mission to help save the planet while making a profit. He turns agricultural waste into sustainable paper and packaging, and in this conversation, he shares his secrets to success in business and beyond.Key takeaways- Sustainable Innovation: Learn how Kaushal has built out an end-to-end sustainable business model focused on both community development and economic growth- Smart scaling: We peel back the layers to unpick how Kaushal achieves economic growth whilst successfully diversifying the business- Grounded Mindset: How does Kaushal deal with cultural differences and large supply chain issues? By staying grounded through self-care practices like meditation Finally, hear why falling in love with the problem, not just the solution, is vital to entrepreneurial successHave questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Rival: The man who gave Gary Vee the "jab, jab, jab, right hook"
Jan 22 2024
Rival: The man who gave Gary Vee the "jab, jab, jab, right hook"
The former MD of Gary Vee's Vayner Media left everything behind to pursue his dream, and the results will leave you inspired.  Tune into a thought-provoking journey with Eric Fulwiler, the visionary co-founder behind the growth marketing consultancy Rival. What was the tipping point that compelled him to take the plunge? In reality, there wasn't one...Eric pulls back the glitzy entrepreneurial curtain and reveals the unfiltered realities of day-to-day startup life. Key Takeaways- Define Your Own Success Metrics: It’s not just about growth; in Eric's case, it's about building a business that is so strong that someone else would want to purchase it. Learn his philosophy: don't challenge the market; change it. - Prepare for the Marathon: Entrepreneurship is a journey of endurance. Eric's advice? Build emotional and psychological resilience. It’s about ensuring the longevity of both your mental health and your business. Take care of yourself, your team, and truly understand your customers' needs.- More Than Just Profit: Eric sees Rival, and business in general, as a vehicle for positive change. Aim for a social and environmental impact; embody the challenger brand mindset, and drive innovation that matters. Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Phasecraft: Leap into the future with Quantum Algorithms
Jan 8 2024
Phasecraft: Leap into the future with Quantum Algorithms
What comes to mind when you think of the future? Flying cars, human-like robots, time travel? But what about quantum computing? Prepare to have your mind blown. Join us for an exhilarating journey into the future with Phasecraft, a groundbreaking startup that is pushing the boundaries of algorithmic innovation in the quantum realm.Get an insider view from Ashley Montanaro - co-founder & CEO - as he unravels the mysteries of quantum computingKey Takeaways- Explore the Infinite: Discover the transformative potential of quantum algorithms and witness how Phasecraft will help create breakthroughs in battery development and material science.- Inspiration: Hear the unvarnished accounts of the co-founders' personal lives that blend life and work, whilst raising young families. - Shape the Future: Uncover the impact of quantum computing on future technologies and industriesHave questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
SRSLY Low Carb: why we need to STOP sugar coating the truth
Dec 18 2023
SRSLY Low Carb: why we need to STOP sugar coating the truth
We are currently facing a public health crisis. In this episode, you'll hear the story of Andy Welsh, the ambitious founder of SRSLY Low Carb. After a wake-up call, he left the corporate world to enter the challenging world of health-focused entrepreneurship. Picture this: You're trying to offer healthier food options in a market that is dominated by six conglomerates producing ultra-processed food. Quite a challenge, right?   What's his secret weapon? It's listening to his customers. Their feedback and loyalty have been his guide and his driving force, reinforcing the power of customer-centric businesses. Key Takeaways- Resilience is at the Heart of Entrepreneurship: Andy's experience reminds us that overcoming obstacles, such as personal financial risk and market resistance, requires a strong support system and an ability to adapt under pressure.- The Power of Quality and Customer Loyalty: Prioritising product integrity and building close customer relationships can lead to organic growth and brand trust, often reducing the need for heavy marketing investment.- Financial Literacy is Fundamental: The conversations underscore the essential need for entrepreneurs to understand their financials deeply. Money problems in business can't be ignored and must be managed proactively to ensure stability and growth.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat nowSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Greenworkx: Small Steps, Big Impact: Building 10 Million Green Jobs
Dec 11 2023
Greenworkx: Small Steps, Big Impact: Building 10 Million Green Jobs
From advising UK Prime Ministers to spearheading green innovation. Mat Ilic takes us from the corridors of Whitehall to the frontlines of green innovation.Discover his journey from Belgrade to becoming a UK visionary. Mat spent his career advising the likes of Boris Johnson and Theresa May. Now, he’s on a mission with Greenworkx to foster environmental change and generate 10 million green jobs Key Takeaways- How can small steps lead to massive impact? This conversation holds the answers. - Bridging the Green Gap: There's a pressing need to address the skills gap in the green sector. Greenworkx's mission is to empower 10 million individuals with green jobs, fostering a low-carbon, sustainable world.- Step by Step Innovation: Mat Ilic champions the iterative approach in business, reminding us that significant progress comes from small, consistent steps.- Diversity Fuels Change: Inclusivity isn't just a buzzword; it's crucial for progression. By aiming to recruit from underserved communities, Greenworkx addresses workforce diversity head-on, ensuring that the transition to a greener economy is wide-reaching.Join us for an insightful conversation where passion meets purpose, and innovation creates a greener world.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Hexa Finance: Breaking Stereotypes & Reimagining Finance for Startups
Nov 27 2023
Hexa Finance: Breaking Stereotypes & Reimagining Finance for Startups
The incredible journey of Hexa Finance is not just a tale of success; it's a true story of how being bold and true to yourself can pay dividends.  From a simple idea in 2016 to launching amidst the global lockdown, co-founders Ben Davies and Stu Mason have navigated it all.They dive deep into their journey, sharing the sacrifices made, the critical role of timing, and the essence of trust and understanding in their partnership.Key takeaways- Back yourself and go for it, as you've started something for a reason and should have complete confidence in your vision.- The Power of Teamwork: Ben and Stu stress the significance of a team that complements your skills and fosters mutual support. - The Art of Saying 'No': Learn the value of simplicity in complexity. Embracing your niche, the bravery in critical decisions, and the wisdom in choosing your battles. - Making Finance Relatable: Steering away from traditional corporate norms, Hexa Finance champions an open & comfortable environment, demystifying finance and making it accessible to all. Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
More Happi: Overcoming Fear and Burnout: Unveiling the Power of Coaching
Oct 30 2023
More Happi: Overcoming Fear and Burnout: Unveiling the Power of Coaching
Unlock the secrets to overcoming fear, addressing burnout, and finding happiness with the power of coaching.Meet Ashleigh Tennent, founder of More Happi - a platform making coaching affordable for all.Discover how she conquered her fears, recognised burnout, and built a successful coaching business that's changing lives. Key Takeaways  - Overcoming Fears and Limiting Beliefs: Learn how Ashleigh tackled her fear of public speaking, which was rooted in her childhood- Addressing Burnout: Discover how Ashleigh recognised and navigated burnout with the guidance of a coach, emphasising the importance of reflection and gaining perspective.- The Power of Mentors and Coaches: Understand the difference between mentors and coachesIf you're able to support an amazing cause on behalf of Laura Rawlings, please do kindly donate to Macmillan Cancer, link belowhttps://coffeefundraising.macmillan.org.uk/fundraising/cm23059103Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our website Support the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Johnny Palmer: The Power of Personal Responsibility to unleash your Inner Entrepreneur
May 15 2023
Johnny Palmer: The Power of Personal Responsibility to unleash your Inner Entrepreneur
Join us on board a real Boeing 727 as we dive deep into the mind of a passionate business leader, entrepreneur, and activist, Johnny Palmer. From software to hospitality to renewable energy, he has built multiple successful ventures and now shares his blueprint for success with you.  Are you ready to join the ride? We discuss his core values of disruption, growth, and sustainability, the importance of delegation and trust, the benefits of building a support network, and the challenges of dealing with loneliness in business. Key Takeaways- The importance of taking personal responsibility for one's actions and outcomes, viewing every challenge or failure as an opportunity for learning and growth. -Johnny's blueprint to go from idea to execution and how to nurture embryonic concepts-The power of collaboration, leadership, and delegation, suggesting that success in business involves trusting and empowering others, having a clear and energetic vision, and being open to the chaos that can lead to innovation.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Heights: From Burnout to Braincare, how Dan Murray-Serter built a £500k+ MRR business in public
Apr 17 2023
Heights: From Burnout to Braincare, how Dan Murray-Serter built a £500k+ MRR business in public
How one entrepreneur turned his struggles into a thriving business. We speak with serial entrepreneur, co-founder of Heights and host of the Secret Leaders podcast, Dan Murray-Serter.  Hear how Dan went from struggling with insomnia and anxiety to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the world of nutrition and wellbeing.Discover Dan's insights on resilience, building a unique brand, and creating your own category.  Key Takeaways- Find out how Dan used a newsletter to grow his business and the mistakes he made that we can all learn from- Dan's investment philosophy, based on investing in over 50+startups and how to invest in people, not businesses- Taking yourself too seriously as a founder can lead to a loss of enjoyment and fulfilment in the startup journey, so it's essential to maintain the ability to laugh at yourself and find joy in the process. Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat nowSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
Angel Investing School: Talent is everywhere, opportunity isn’t
Apr 3 2023
Angel Investing School: Talent is everywhere, opportunity isn’t
Do you dream of being an angel investor but don't know where to begin?Learn from the co-founder of The Angel Investing School, Andy Ayim , about how he is democratising the world of angel investing and why being a non-conformist can lead to great leaps in learning.Find out how Andy's backpacking trip at 21 sparked personal and professional growth and led him on the path to entrepreneurship and angel investing. Key Takeaways- Find out what keeps Andy moving forward with confidence, and how someone becomes a trusted advisor to new businesses. - We explore toxic company cultures, the importance of being true to oneself, and the democratisation of angel investing.- Lack of diversity in angel and VC funding and the need for equal access to opportunity for all- The importance of serving customers rather than investors, especially in challenging climates, reminding founders to focus on their intrinsic motivations Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
El Rayo: Tequila - it makes me happy
Mar 6 2023
El Rayo: Tequila - it makes me happy
Some say the best ideas come over a drink, and for these lifelong friends, tequila sparked their entrepreneurial journey. But there’s more to tequila than 3am shooters, sucking a lemon and licking salt. They went all in, quit their day jobs, and went on a wild Mexican adventure.Here's the inspiring story of how they turned a simple idea into a successful startup  El Rayo.  It’s bonkers and brilliant - and likely to make you ask yourself - what am I waiting for?Key Takeaways- Trust your instincts and what you think will be best for the business, as some of the best ideas can come from spontaneous moments or casual conversations.- Resilience is a crucial skill for business owners, as you will often face rejection and challenges, but it's important to push through and enjoy the journey of building your business.- When starting a business without industry experience, don't be afraid to ask questions and seek advice, but also be prepared to admit what you don't know and learn from others.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now
By Sarah London: Live life as if everything is rigged in your favour
Feb 20 2023
By Sarah London: Live life as if everything is rigged in your favour
From tragedy to triumph.  How a sister's life-saving transplant led to the creation of a natural skincare business.By Sarah London, stands for something much larger, their deeply personal story has sparked a strong sense of mission and purpose when it comes to business - which shines through in this conversation.Key Takeaways- Learn how to shake off imposter syndrome and reframe failure - How to stand out and take on the industry giants.  By Sarah London gives 100% transparency in their ingredient listings and became a B Corp, showing their sustainability values.   - How to deal with major business challenges. Hear how they dealt with Brexit and withdrawing from the EU market, they've used direct-to-consumer strategies and social media to maintain and grow their customer base, enabling them to plan a return to the EU market.Have questions about this episode? Ask our hosts, chat now via our websiteSupport the showProudly sponsored by our wonderful partners:National Protective Security Authority - NSPA: The Secure Innovation campaign helps you take steps to protect your business from hostile threats. Don’t leave it too late. Use the link to download the quick-start guide now:NPSA.gov.uk/innovation Hexa Finance: Hexa provides business finance to help you grow from start-up to success. To access your free consultation, simply go to:hexafinance.co.uk/contact Have questions about our podcast or an episode? Ask our hosts, chat now