James Reed: all about business

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• 81. How Gousto is taking on the ultra-processed food industry | Timo Boldt 01.06.2026 53мин

  60% of the UK diet is ultra-processed. And the food industry is manufacturing your addiction. So why is this public health crisis continuing in plain sight, and what it would actually take to change it?Two things are clear. Britain's food system is more broken than most people realise. And Gousto is far more interesting a business than its recipe boxes suggest.In today’s episode, James speaks with Timo Boldt, founder and CEO of Gousto, about building one of the UK's most ambitious food businesses from scratch and why, 14 years and 80 million meals later, he's only just getting started.Timo shares how he left a career in investment banking to start again. With no money, no network, no customers, he shares what that journey has taught him about fundraising without connections, growing with your customers and building a business around a problem genuinely worth solving.They also discuss how Gousto has used AI intelligently from the beginning, not as a replacement for people, but as a tool that makes the whole operation sharper; from cutting food waste and optimising factory logistics to building fully personalised menus that 80% of customers now rely on.Timestamps:01:37 What Gousto Does06:23 From Banking to Entrepreneurship13:24 Scrappy Startup and First Orders25:35 Affordability Taxes and Transparency31:16 Healthy Without Preaching34:33 Factories And Delivery Network42:12 China Trip AI And RoboticsLinksFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Timo Boldt on LinkedInFind out more about Gousto and their productsSubmit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HEREAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 80. How a £5,000 workshop became a global luxury brand | Tom Faulkner 25.05.2026 1ч 8мин

  What does it take to build a luxury brand by accident and keep it thriving for 30 years without ever taking outside investment?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Tom Faulkner, award-winning British furniture designer and founder of Tom Faulkner Limited. They talk about the unlikely journey from redundancy at a record label to running one of the UK's most distinctive handcrafted furniture brands, with showrooms in London and New York, and a workshop in Swindon that has been making things by hand since 1996.Tom shares the story of how a side hustle in hand-painted tabletops became a serious business the moment he discovered what you could do with metal. He talks about buying a Swindon fabrication workshop for £5,000, inheriting two employees, slowly building a loyal team and a global client base. All through organic growth, word of mouth, and relationships with interior designers.They explore what it really means to build a premium, handcrafted brand in the modern world: the growing appetite among wealthy clients to understand how things are made, why British manufacturing remains a genuine selling point in the American market, and how Tom navigated the early months of US tariffs with a decision that cost him margin but protected his customer relationships.Together they also discuss the challenge of succession and legacy for founder-led businesses, why Tom has never chased scale for its own sake, and what he hopes to do next.Timestamps4:56 From Chrysalis Records to Hand-Painted Furniture8:40 Buying the Swindon Workshop (The £5,000 Decision)12:56 The Pimlico Road Showroom & London's Design Cluster15:53 Expanding to New York20:24 Staying Artisan: Organic Growth & British Manufacturing25:20 Signature Pieces: Capricorn & the Collections36:13 Navigating Business Challenges & US Tariffs43:01 Future Plans: Collaborations, Sculpture & What's Next57:04 Advice for Young EntrepreneursFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Tom Faulkner on LinkedInFind out more about Tom Faulkner LTD and their products HERESubmit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HEREAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 79. What businesses should learn from museums about innovation | Elizabeth McKay 18.05.2026 58мин

  How can a major museum be run with the same entrepreneurial mindset as a high-growth business?In today's episode, James Reed speaks with Elizabeth McKay, Director and CEO of the London Transport Museum. While many perceive museums as static archives, Elizabeth explains how she applies commercial strategy to ensure one of London’s most iconic cultural landmarks remains financially sustainable and relevant in a modern economy.Elizabeth shares insights from her unconventional career journey and explains why the museum identifies as the best in the world for urban transport. They explore the evolution of work through the lens of London’s history, from the original "chairmen" who carried sedan chairs to the "navvies" who hand-dug the first underground network.Together they discuss the balance between preserving heritage and driving innovation, including the story of Harry Beck’s revolutionary Tube map and how it was initially rejected for being too radical. Elizabeth also outlines the realities of leading a cultural institution that functions as both a charity and a successful commercial entity.Timestamps01:48 Transport history highlights09:50 Young entrepreneurs message20:04 Design DNA of TFL24:26 Running the museum business33:27 Leading through uncertainty40:21 Funding model explained45:10 Youth skills pipelineFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Elizabeth McCay on LinkedIn:Find out more about TFL Museum and their exhibitions here: Submit your application to Reed’s Entrepreneurs Fund for a chance to a £20,000 grant HEREAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 78. The crisis facing UK retail and food businesses | Sarah Bradbury 11.05.2026 48мин

  Why are millions of jobs going unfilled in one of the UK’s biggest industries, while so many young people are struggling to find work?In this episode of all about business, James Reed speaks with Sarah Bradbury, CEO of the Institute of Grocery Distribution, about the future of the UK food industry, the growing challenge of attracting young talent, and why the sector may offer far more opportunities than people realise.Sarah shares insights from her 25-year career across major retailers, before stepping into one of the most influential leadership roles in the UK food sector. She explains how IGD works across the entire food system and how they help competitors collaborate on the biggest long-term challenges facing the industry.They explore the pressures reshaping food and retail, including changing consumer habits, climate change, AI, automation, workforce shortages, and the potential impact of weight-loss drugs like Ozempic, on the future of food consumption.Together they also discuss leadership, collaboration between rival businesses, and why the UK food industry remains one of the country’s most important, and underestimated, economic forces.Timestamps 02:00 What IGD does08:43 Retail tech and AI trends12:27 UK food system challenges18:36 Land use and solar farms23:47 Hidden food careers31:29 Youth unemployment urgency43:27 Closing reflections and CEO ForumFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Sarah Bradbury on LinkedInFind out more about IGD and their impact HEREAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 77. What it’s really like running a funeral directors business | Damian Melville 04.05.2026 1ч 9мин

  Running a business is hard, but what is it like when your work sits at the centre of people’s most emotional moments?In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Damian Melville, Managing Director of Melville & Daughter Funeral Directors. Together they explore leadership in one of the most emotionally demanding industries there is.Damian shares his journey into the family business, reflecting on the responsibilities that come when helping people in their most vulnerable time, and how that shapes both leadership-style and company-culture. He shares what balancing tradition with modernisation means, the realities of running a business where empathy is as important as efficiency, and the discipline required to maintain high standards in sensitive circumstances.The conversation explores what it means to lead with care while still making clear commercial decisions, how to build trust within communities, and why consistency and professionalism matter more than ever, in a service built on reputation. Damian also discusses the challenges of succession in a family-run business and the importance of supporting both clients and staff through emotionally complex work.A thoughtful, grounded conversation about leadership, responsibility, and building a business where purpose and performance have to coexist every step of the way.Timestamps 01:04 Finding a niche market06:36 Going solo challenges12:50 Winning trust locally23:18 COVID shock to the system36:27 Hiring costs and NI43:25 A Funeral director day01:00:26 Memorial innovations and burialsFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Damian Melville on LinkedInFind out more about Melville & Daughters Funeral Directors hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 76. How to get a pay rise: Salary negotiation that works | Connor Scully 27.04.2026 27мин

  Is an awkward conversation the only thing standing between you and the salary you deserve?In this episode of all about business, Connor Scully, Senior Executive Consultant at Reed Specialist Recruitment, sits down with James to discuss how professionals can effectively secure a pay rise in their current role.Connor shares practical advice on how to move beyond the discomfort of pay discussions by focusing on preparation, timing, and proving your worth. The conversation explores how to assess whether you are truly due a salary increase, emphasizing the need to align your output with business goals and quantify your impact through measurable KPIs. Connor explains why being proactive, taking on extra responsibilities during company hardships, or "saying yes" to complex projects, is key to becoming an indispensable asset.Whether you feel underpaid or are looking to take the next step in your career, this episode offers a step-by-step guide to navigating pay conversations with confidence and a growth mindsetTimestamps02:00 Are You Due More04:42 Prep And Timing Mistakes09:38 When To Job Hunt12:19 Ask In Person15:36 Say Yes More Often20:22 Employer Perspective on Pay RequestsFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 75. How to calculate what you're worth in the job market | Leanne Appleton 20.04.2026 28мин

  How do you know if you’re being offered what you’re worth?In this episode of all about business, Leanne Appleton, recruitment expert at Reed, speaks with James about how professionals can increase their earning potential and achieve a higher salary.Leanne shares practical insights into what really drives salary growth, from understanding your market value to building in-demand skills and positioning yourself effectively in the job market. She explains why working harder isn’t always enough, and how being more strategic about your career decisions can significantly impact your long-term earnings.The conversation explores how to approach salary negotiations with confidence, including when to ask for a pay rise, how to benchmark your worth, and why timing plays a critical role. Leanne also highlights the importance of demonstrating impact through measurable results, rather than relying on tenure or job titles alone.Timestamps 02:10 Know Your Worth04:15 Recruiter Advantage05:41 Benchmark Beyond Salary08:36 Reading Job Ad Salaries11:14 Negotiation Prep14:20 Avoid Over Underselling17:37 Benefits That Matter19:36 Perks Employers Can Add21:52 Probation Pay Reviews24:39 Counteroffers WarningFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 74. How to grow a business fast and exit successfully | Andrew Hulbert 13.04.2026 59мин

  How do you grow an idea into a multi-million pound business before the age of 40?In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Andrew Hulbert, entrepreneur and founder of Pareto Facilities Management, a company he built from his bedroom into a £50 million business before successfully exiting in his thirties.Andrew shares the journey from a difficult start in Oxford and an unconventional path into business, to scaling rapidly in a competitive industry and navigating the realities of high-growth entrepreneurship. He reflects on the mindset required to build something from nothing, the importance of winning (and keeping) customers, and why consistency and execution matter more than ideas.The conversation explores what it really takes to scale a business, from landing pivotal contracts that accelerate growth, to building a leadership team strong enough to step back from. Andrew also speaks candidly about the personal cost of success with long hours, burnout, and the moment he realised the business he built was no longer sustainable for the life he wanted.Now focused on family, investing, and sustainability, Andrew offers a different perspective on success that goes beyond financial outcomes.This is a grounded and honest conversation about entrepreneurship, growth, and what success really looks like once you’ve achieved it.Timestamps02:17 Council estate roots09:20 Knife lesson turning point22:06 Bedroom startup launch34:14 Why sell the business42:57 Health reset and purpose46:50 Sales tricks that work54:47 Advice for entrepreneursFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Andrew Hulbert on LinkedInFind out more about Pareto FacilitiesAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 73. No cows here: Could your pint become your next leather wallet? | TJ Mitchell 06.04.2026 46мин

  Could the answer to a more sustainable handbag or wallet lie at the bottom of your pint glass?In this episode of all about business, James Reed sits down with Dr. Edward "TJ" Mitchell, co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of Arda Biomaterials, a London-based startup redefining the future of leather. Using cutting-edge technology, Arda transforms waste grain from brewers and distillers into sustainable, animal-, and plastic-free leather alternatives that are poised to disrupt the fashion and materials industries.TJ shares his remarkable journey from a PhD in radioactive waste storage to the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship. He opens up about the pivotal moments that led to founding Arda Biomaterials, meeting his co-founder, and the bold decision to pivot from food-based protein products to sustainable materials. TJ also talks about the challenges of scaling a deep tech startup, from overcoming scientific and engineering hurdles, to building a team, and navigating the complexities of fundraising.TJ reflects on the importance of networking and immersing yourself in the right communities, the art of storytelling as an entrepreneur, and why asking for advice often leads to unexpected opportunities.Timestamps02:39 From PhD research to entrepreneurship06:22 Discovering the value of waste grain12:15 Pivoting from food-based protein to leather alternatives14:19 Using chemistry to mimic collagen for sustainable leather20:33 The science behind transforming waste into leather-like materials21:20 Why communication and storytelling are key for entrepreneurs24:47 Advice for scientists: finding co-founders and startup programs35:00 The future of plastic-free, animal-free materials in fashion39:49 Arda Biomaterials’ vision as a waste transformation company42:13 Scaling globally and creating local production facilitiesFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow TJ Mitchell on LinkedInFind out more about Arda Biomaterials hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 72. How to build a successful brand in a competitive market | Steve Perez 30.03.2026 59мин

  How do you turn a single idea into a global brand and keep winning in an industry where most products fade away?In this episode of all about business, James sits down with Steve Perez, founder of Global Brands, to unpack the reality behind building one of the UK’s most successful drinks businesses from scratch.Steve shares how he identified a gap in the market early on, and backed his instincts to create products that would resonate with a new generation of consumers, most notably the breakout success of VK. But Steve’s story isn’t just about spotting an opportunity, it’s about the discipline required to execute, the risks that come with backing your own judgement, and the resilience needed to navigate inevitable setbacks along the way.The conversation goes deeper into what actually drives success in a highly competitive, fast-moving industry. Steve explains why understanding your customer better than anyone else is a non-negotiable, how to stay relevant as trends shift, and how many businesses fail not because of bad ideas, but because of poor execution.He also reflects on leadership as a business scale. From making tough commercial decisions under pressure, to building a team you can trust, and knowing when to adapt, versus when to stay the course.This is a grounded, experience-led conversation about entrepreneurship without the fluff that covers risk, resilience, execution, and what it really takes to build something that lasts.Timestamps02:56 From pub manager to van hustle08:43 Business bust and rock bottom14:33 Inventing VK 25:16 Keep your equity keep control38:27 Building a hotel empire43:36 High Court tax challenge57:34 Multi-generational mindsetFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Steve Perez on LinkedInFind out more Global Brands and VKAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 71. The interview method that actually works in 2026 | Will Moore 23.03.2026 25мин

  Why do some candidates succeed in interviews while others fail, even with the same experience?In this episode of all about business, James speaks with Will Moore, Senior Area Manager at Reed Specialist Recruitment, about how to effectively prepare for a job interview.With more than a decade of experience in recruitment, Will shares practical advice on how candidates can approach interviews with confidence and structure. He explains the four key steps to interview preparation, from researching the company and reviewing the job description, to understanding the people you’ll be meeting, and preparing examples from your own experience.The conversation also explores how candidates can structure answers clearly and communicate their achievements with confidence. Will highlights why using facts and measurable results is far more effective than exaggeration, and how practising answers out loud can dramatically improve performance on the day.They also discuss some of the most common mistakes candidates make; asking vague questions that reveal a lack of research, failing to prepare real examples of past work, and overlooking the importance of preparation for virtual interviews, where technology, environment, and presentation still matter.Whether you're preparing for your first interview, or your next career move, this episode offers practical insights to help you present yourself clearly, confidently, and authentically.Timestamps01:12 Four step interview prep06:26 Nailing tell me about you08:59 STAR method14:41 Handling weaknesses questions19:16 Practice and common mistakesFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 70. The 7 Second CV: What recruiters wish everyone knew | Libby White 16.03.2026 27мин

  What is the biggest mistake people make when writing a CV? And how can yours land you an interview in 7 seconds?In this episode of All About Business, James is joined by Libby White, Senior Consultant at Reed specialising in marketing, communications, PR and design recruitment.While some people claim the CV is becoming outdated, Libby explains why it remains a critical tool for getting interviews and how small changes can dramatically improve your chances of standing out.Drawing on her experience screening CVs every day, Libby shares practical advice on how candidates can present their experience more effectively, highlight measurable achievements, and tailor their CV for different roles.From structuring your professional summary to avoiding common mistakes (including over-reliance on AI-generated CVs), this episode is packed with actionable tips for job seekers at every stage of their career.Follow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 69. The career mistake smart people keep making (and what actually matters) | Sophie Clarke 09.03.2026 25мин

  What’s the difference between chasing the next job and building a long-term career?In this episode of All About Business Shorts, James Reed speaks with Sophie Clarke, recruitment expert at Reed, about how professionals can think more strategically about their careers.Sophie explains why focusing only on job titles or salary increases can sometimes distract from long-term career growth. Instead, she argues that understanding your strengths, motivations, and the skills you want to develop is key to making smarter career decisions.The conversation explores how building a strong personal reputation — through reliability, communication, and trust — can open doors throughout your career. Sophie also shares why asking better questions when considering new opportunities, and thinking beyond the immediate job move, can help professionals make decisions that compound over time.This is a practical discussion about career strategy, personal brand, and making job moves that support long-term professional growth.Timestamps01:37 Progression not job hopping04:44 CV turnoffs and AI08:35 Numbers beat responsibilities13:15 Formatting and what to remove17:29 Hobbies out systems in21:44 Junior CVs and early experienceFollow James Reed on LinkedInFind out how Reed can help you advance your career here: Find out more about Reed Specialist Recruitment here: Explore our online course ‘Life's Work: How to get ahead in a career you love’ here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 68. Ex Gordon Ramsay Group CEO reveals his turnaround playbook | Stuart Gillies 02.03.2026 1ч 3мин

  How do you build world-class standards in hospitality and then lead at the highest level of business?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Stuart Gillies, chef, restaurateur, and former CEO of the Gordon Ramsay Group, about building excellence in hospitality and leading through growth, crisis, and reinvention.Stuart shares his journey from starting out in kitchens through international experience in Sweden, Italy, and New York, to becoming a senior leader at the Gordon Ramsay Group. He reflects on the discipline, attention to detail, and resilience he developed early in his career, and how those lessons shaped his transition from chef to CEO during one of the toughest periods in hospitality.The conversation explores leadership under pressure, making hard commercial decisions, closing and opening businesses, and why devolving responsibility builds stronger teams. Stuart also shares what it’s really like to run a family hospitality business with his wife Cecilia, navigating COVID as founders, and why consistency, standards, and purpose matter more than ever in building a business that lasts.A grounded conversation about leadership, craftsmanship, and building high-performance teams in one of the toughest industries in business.Timestamps00:00 Start: Stuart Gillies Former CEO Gordon Ramsay Group & Restaurateur04:30 Early Career Journey: YTS Scheme to International Kitchen Experience Sweden Italy15:43 New York Daniel Restaurant: Career Catalyst Working With Top French Chefs22:17 CEO Transition: Leading Gordon Ramsay Group Business Strategy & Restaurant Decisions36:43 COVID Challenge: Launching Bank House Chislehurst & Number Eight Sevenoaks38:30 Family Business Success: Working With Wife Cecilia & Teaching Kids Work Ethic50:00 Couple Business Partnership Advice: Building Strong Marriage Before Business Venture59:00 Leadership Lessons: Comfort Zone Growth Mindset & Future Hospitality VisionFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Stuart Gillies on LinkedIn: Find out more Number Eight restaurant here:All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 67. How to evolve your offering to grow a service-based business | Gregory Nice + Jack Stanton 23.02.2026 1ч 6мин

  How do you build a creative agency that cuts through in a crowded, fast-changing media landscape?In this episode of All About Business, James talks with Gregory Nice and Jack Stanton, co-founders of NICE Productions. Together they discuss growing a modern creative agency in the age of social-first content, multi-channel marketing, and AI disruption.Gregory and Jack share how they built NICE Productions from weekend side projects into a London-based creative agency producing campaigns across TV, social, radio, cinema, and out-of-home. They reflect on starting young, balancing creativity with commercial reality, and how long-term client relationships helped them survive industry shocks, from COVID, to strikes, and shifting media budgets.The conversation explores how creative agencies can stand out in a saturated market, why multi-channel campaigns now matter more than single-format ads, and how low-budget, high-impact content can outperform expensive campaigns when it connects culturally. They also discuss the real impact of AI on creative work, why human creativity still matters, and how young people can break into the industry with fewer barriers than ever.This is a candid conversation about building a creative business, staying relevant in a disrupted industry, and creating work that cuts through in a noisy world.Timestamps02:42 Launching Nice Productions08:12 Rebrand to ‘Nice’18:44 Standing out in a crowded market22:05 AI disruption in content37:53 Why big ideas cost big money46:43 Turning virality into new business57:34 Landing big clients01:02:38 How they generate ideasFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Gregory Nice on LinkedInFollow Jack Stanton on LinkedInFind out more NICE Productions hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 66. From miniskirts to stem cell therapy: How a fashion leader is changing heart failure treatment | Jenifer Rosenberg OBE 16.02.2026 54мин

  How do you turn a bold idea into a national institution that changes lives?In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jenifer Rosenberg OBE, entrepreneur in fashion and social impact leader, about building purpose-driven organisations that create lasting change.Jenifer shares her journey from spotting a gap in support for families facing serious illness, to co-founding Heart Cells Foundation and growing it from a kitchen-table startup into a nationally recognised charity. She reflects on navigating funding challenges, building credibility with clinicians and policymakers, and leading through the emotional realities of mission-led work.The conversation explores scaling a purpose-driven organisation sustainably, balancing commercial discipline with social impact, and the importance of governance, partnerships, and long-term strategy. Jenifer also shares lessons from stepping back from founder leadership, earning an OBE, and staying resilient while driving systemic change.A thoughtful conversation about entrepreneurship with purpose, leading with conviction, and building something that truly lasts.Timestamps02:18 From post room to senior role08:07 Quality and innovation with Marks & Spencer16:28 Branching out into fashion26:40 The power of innovation30:23 A personal journey with heart failure35:24 Founding the Heart Cells Foundation48:37 Maintaining energy and healthLinksFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Jenifer Rosenberg OBE on LinkedIn: Find out more the Heart Cells Foundation here: Be part of the million job giveaway HERE All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 65. From Dragon’s Den to Startup Success | Jinesh Vohra 09.02.2026 57мин

  What if becoming mortgage-free wasn’t about earning more money, but about using what you already spend more intelligently? In this episode of All About Business, James speaks with Jinesh Vora, Founder and CEO of Sprive, the UK fintech app helping homeowners pay off their mortgages faster without changing their lifestyle.Jinesh shares his journey from a 14-year career at Goldman Sachs to fintech founder, shaped by a three-generation family legacy of entrepreneurship. He reflects on leaving a high-paying corporate role, bootstrapping a startup through the pandemic, and building trust with banks and lenders in a highly regulated industry.The conversation explores scaling a fintech responsibly, from angel and venture funding to securing a major TV-for-equity deal with Channel 4. Jinesh also shares candid lessons from pitching on Dragons’ Den, alongside insights on leadership, resilience, AI, and avoiding growth at all costs.This is a practical conversation about financial freedom, fintech innovation, and building a purpose-led business that helps people take control of their money.Timestamps01:49 The birth of Sprive: A mortgage app revolution11:10 Jinesh's entrepreneurial journey and family legacy14:39 The Goldman Sachs experience24:01 Navigating the pandemic and launching Sprive32:09 Networking and angel investors34:11 Dragon's Den experience41:15 Hiring strategies and team building48:49 Future vision and personal goalsFollow James Reed on LinkedInFollow Jinesh Vohra on LinkedInFind out more about Sprive App hereAll About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 64. How to convert visibility into sales and long-term growth | Penelope Chilvers 02.02.2026 56мин

  How do you build a creative business from scratch and ensure it steadily grows without compromising on quality, craft, or values?In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Penelope Chilvers, English footwear designer and founder of the eponymous luxury brand, and they talk about building a resilient business rooted in craftsmanship, customer closeness, and long-term thinking.Penelope shares her unconventional journey from training as a painter to launching a footwear business in London as a single parent. She reflects on learning her trade from the ground up, building a brand without formal business training, and why necessity — not strategy — drove her early entrepreneurial decisions.Penelope talks about the importance of craftsmanship, materials, long-term supplier relationships, and how staying close to customers has shaped everything from design to retail strategy.James and Penelope discuss growth, from opening stores and expanding internationally, to raising investment and introducing clothing alongside footwear. Penelope shares why steady, organic growth has served her better than chasing trends, how slow fashion has become a competitive advantage, and why durability, purpose, and trust now matter more than ever.This is a thoughtful conversation about learning your craft, respecting the people who help you build, and creating a business designed to last.Timestamps:02:59 From painter to designer07:59 The first big orders15:00 Sustaining quality and craftsmanship22:52 Family and business dynamics29:50 Expanding into the American market35:52 Men's range and iconic products47:58 Slow fashion and ethical productionFollow James Reed on LinkedIn:Follow Penelope Chilvers on LinkedIn: Find out more about Penelope Chilvers store here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 63. The future of PR and business in an AI world | Francesca Gamble 26.01.2026 1ч 6мин

  How do you create a modern PR strategy that builds brand relevance and marketing-led businesses able to thrive through cultural and technological change?In this episode of All About Business, James sits down with Francesca Gamble, founder of GTN Consultancy, to explore the future of PR, marketing, and business in an AI-driven world.With a career spanning global agencies, luxury fashion brands, and major cultural moments — including Dolce & Gabbana, Stella McCartney, and the London 2012 Olympics — Francesca shares her journey from agency leadership to launching her own independent consultancy. She explains what it really takes to build a modern PR and marketing business without hype, awards, or ego, and why so many agencies fail by prioritising image over impact.The conversation dives deep into brand partnerships, celebrity collaborations, and equity-based deals as powerful growth strategies for challenger brands. Francesca breaks down why great products still fail without strong marketing, how cultural relevance directly drives sales, and why results matter far more than industry accolades.Looking ahead, Francesca offers a bold and timely perspective on the future of PR and advertising in the age of AI. As automation accelerates across marketing, media, and communications, she argues that being human, authentic, and culturally aware will become the ultimate competitive advantage. A no-nonsense conversation about entrepreneurship, independence, brand relevance, and building a business that lasts in a rapidly changing world.Timestamps:00:00 Intro04:38 Starting a PR business10:08 The role of PR in modern marketing17:54 Celebrity partnerships and brand collaborations32:28 The importance of flexibility and client relationships42:24 The reality of entrepreneurship51:03 Successful celebrity brand partnerships58:00 The future of PR and female foundersFollow James Reed on LinkedIn: Follow Franscesa Gamble on LinkedIn: Find out more about GTN Consultancy here: All About Business is brought to you by Reed Global. Learn more HERE This podcast was co-produced by Reed Global and Flamingo Media. If you’d like to create a chart-topping podcast to elevate your brand, visit Flamingo-media.co.uk
• 62. How to stack revenue: The 3 levers that optimise growth of any local food business | Pete Russell 19.01.2026 57мин

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