Ambitious Minds

In this episode, I sit down with Jordan Schlipf, someone who’s lived several entrepreneurial lives; building tech startups, investing as a global VC partner, and eventually stepping in as CEO of the well-known beauty brand Cowshed.Jordan talks honestly about the ups and downs of entrepreneurship: the long hours, the sacrifices, and the moments where you’re forced to question what you actually want from your career. We get into how he rebuilt his routines, how he learned to lead bigger teams, and the reality of making tough decisions during a company restructure.This episode is full of practical lessons; whether you’re running a startup, moving into leadership, or trying to figure out your next step. Jordan is refreshingly real about what it takes to grow, evolve, and keep your ambition intact.00:00 Introduction01:57 Soul Searching and Career Transition14:45 The Realities of Entrepreneurship20:57 The Importance of Health and Routine26:18 Challenges of Company Restructuring34:02 The CEO's Evolving Role34:34 Defining a Good CEO36:39 The Importance of Recruitment and Culture38:11 Knowing When to Step Down41:27 Avoiding Business Pitfalls45:13 Diverse Business Ventures49:57 Investment Strategies and Wealth Management55:22 Reflections on the Finance Industry01:02:11 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

So many ambitious people today feel like they’re doing everything right, getting the degree, working hard, climbing the ladder... and yet still struggling to make real financial progress.It’s not your imagination.The old playbook that worked for previous generations doesn’t work anymore.In this solo episode, I break down the truth behind why so many Millennials and Gen Z feel stuck, frustrated, or left behind… and more importantly, what actually works today.Drawing on over a decade of experience advising clients as an Investment Manager, I explain:• Why housing, wages, degrees and social mobility have completely shifted• How wealth moved from income → ownership (and why that matters for you)• Why your parents’ roadmap no longer applies in today’s economy• The modern playbook for building wealth sustainably and realistically• How to increase your earning power, not just your savings• Why a second income stream is becoming essential, not optional• How your network can accelerate your career more than any qualification• Why redefining your timeline can unlock huge opportunities Follow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Subscribe to my Substack: https://substack.com/@fuelyourambition Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Christine Nicholson is a award-winning business mentor, author, and exit strategist. In this episode we unpack what it really takes to build, scale, and successfully exit your business.With over a hundred business sales under her belt, Christine shares real-world lessons on the three types of exits every founder should understand, how to prepare for due diligence long before you sell, and why financial freedom starts outside your business.From the emotional rollercoaster of letting go to the practical steps that protect your wealth, this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom for entrepreneurs who want to create lasting value, and a life beyond the business.00:00 Introduction01:54 Preparing for Business Exit 06:44 The Importance of Delegation 13:40 The Psychological Toll of Due Diligence 19:31 The Role of Preparation in Due Diligence 23:16 Personal Entrepreneurial Journey 29:28 The Overlooked Strategy: Acquiring to Exit 30:26 The Reality of Business Dependency 33:59 Preparing for Wealth Outside the Business 34:54 The Pitfalls of Not Planning Ahead 42:07 The Gender Dynamics in Business Ownership 44:57 The Challenges of Selling a Business 47:52 The Importance of Building Business Controls 49:43 The Motivation Behind Helping Others 53:39 The Impact of Upbringing on Success 55:57 Final Thoughts and Where to Find More InformationContact Christine:https://christinenicholson.co.uk/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Colin Campbell is the host of Cambro Conversations and a top-performing sales coach.When Colin was made redundant from his sales director role, he didn’t panic, he pivoted. He used that moment of uncertainty to rebuild his career on his own terms, turning a side project into a full-time coaching business. In this episode, he breaks down how to juggle a side hustle alongside a demanding job, stay financially sharp, and keep moving forward when life throws you off track.We also explore how AI tools can streamline sales, why consistent follow-ups are a game-changer, and how to stay market ready no matter how secure your job feels.If you’re thinking about going out on your own, or just want to build something meaningful on the side, this episode is packed with insights to help you do it the smart way.00:00 Intro03:17 Building a Side Hustle and Market Testing09:30 Financial Realities and Planning for Self-Employment18:54 Sales Coaching and Structuring Your Business28:47 The Importance of Follow-Up in Meetings and Podcasts29:30 Effective Communication and Clear Actions29:57 Leveraging Guest Introductions and Networking30:47 Structuring Follow-Ups for Success34:00 The Role of AI in Sales and Follow-Ups35:43 Utilizing AI Tools for Efficiency41:03 Cold Outreach and Client Acquisition46:28 Tailoring Sales Approaches to Client Needs51:19 Final Thoughts and Personal ReflectionsConnect with Colin:Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/col.cambro/
Email List - https://colcambro.kit.com/30bde23b0c
Email - Colin@colcambro.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom had everything most people dream of. A top degree. A role at JP Morgan. The kind of career that looks perfect on paper. But behind the prestige, he felt something was missing.In this conversation, Tom opens up about what it’s really like working in one of the world’s biggest investment banks... and why he walked away. From side hustles and consulting to building his own ventures, he reveals the reality of leaving security for the unknown.Now, as a fractional CFO, Tom helps entrepreneurs understand the truth about their finances: the difference between profit and cash flow, why recurring revenue matters, and how to prepare a business for sale. His journey is one of ambition, risk, and redefining success.This isn’t just about money. It’s about identity, growth, and the courage to bet on yourself.00:00 Introduction: Working at JP Morgan01:22 University and Internships03:38 Life at JP Morgan05:41 Deciding to Leave JP Morgan08:46 Starting New Ventures and Side Hustles10:07 Challenges and Realisations in Small Businesses10:52 Providing Financial Consulting to Small Businesses14:55 Improving Business Cash Flow and Profit Margins30:09 Future Business Plans and Advice30:29 The Value of Recurring Revenue33:05 Preparing Businesses for Sale36:28 Building a Personal Brand42:11 The Importance of Consistency46:14 Ambition and Personal Growth51:36 Investing in Yourself55:21 Conclusion and Contact Information Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tom Giles always dreamt of making it in football, and he did when he was hired by AFC Bournemouth, Chelsea FC, MCC and Bath Rugby, before launching his own sports business.In this episode, Tom shares the realities of working in elite sport, the transition to entrepreneurship, and why surrounding yourself with high-performing people matters. He also opens up about his personal journey as a father raising a child with a rare syndrome, and how that challenge fuels his drive, resilience, and ambition.We dive into leadership, personal branding, and the role of AI in business, while exploring the importance of passion, curiosity, and consistency in building long-term success.Timestamps:00:00 Intro & Football Beginnings00:39 Breaking into the Sports Industry06:03 Chelsea FC & Career Progression20:28 The Commercial Side of Sports26:17 Social Media’s Influence31:18 Balancing Family & Tech36:17 Vulnerability & Authenticity39:22 Raising a Child with a Rare Syndrome44:02 Life as a Business Owner48:31 Finding Passion & Purpose01:06:23 Leadership & Team Building01:09:24 The Startup Mindset01:13:27 AI in Business01:16:31 Lessons from Podcasts & Books01:23:57 Sports x Business Insights01:31:14 Motivation & Ambition01:40:03 Why Consistency Wins Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Starting a business is hard.Starting one with your spouse? That’s a whole different level of risk.In this episode, I sit down with Joe Fraher, an architect who, alongside his wife Liz, built a boutique design and build firm in Central London, right in the middle of the 2008 financial crisis.Joe shares the real story behind how they made it work: from opposite views on risk, to navigating financial pressure, managing a growing team, and raising a family at the same time. He opens up about going sober, leading through chaos, and the mindset it takes to grow something meaningful without losing your relationship, or yourself.This is an honest conversation about ambition, business, marriage, and the messy parts in between.Giving up alcohol to take control of his life againRedefining success beyond money and titlesTeaching his children about wealth, risk, and responsibilityBalancing love, family, and business without losing eitherAnd why the future of construction lies in digital manufacturing and AIThis is a raw and revealing conversation about what it really takes to build something meaningful, and the mindset shifts required to survive it.00:00 Introduction to Risk-Taking00:41 Starting the Business Journey00:57 Architectural Services and Turnkey Solutions02:08 Challenges and Growth in Architecture03:29 Navigating Redundancy and Building a Business07:52 Managing a Growing Team09:14 The Importance of Risk and Ambition11:08 The French Alps Project15:15 Hiring and Team Dynamics22:25 Education and Career Pathways29:02 Client Relationships and Long-Term Projects31:49 Liz's Role in the Business32:14 The Importance of Listening to Clients32:44 Emotional Investment in Projects35:22 Client Profiling and Matching37:55 Trust and Transparency in Business38:34 Adapting to Economic Challenges45:35 Leveraging AI in Business52:32 Financial Education and Generational Wealth01:02:55 Leveraging Good Debt01:03:36 The Pitfalls of Bad Debt01:05:02 Balancing Risk in Family and Business01:06:23 Aligning Ambitions with Your Partner01:09:36 The Future of Work and Personal Goals01:13:32 Challenges of Entrepreneurship01:14:44 The Impact of Government Policies on SMEs01:25:59 Personal Habits for Success01:30:42 Concluding ThoughtsDiscover Joe and FraherWebsite - https://www.fraher.co/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frahergroup/LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joseph-fraherGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does burnout look like for high achievers and ambitious creatives? Celebrity photographer Bradley Green shares his personal story of burnout, mental health, and the cost of relentless ambition.Brad has built a life many dream of, travelling the world as a photographer capturing icons like Matthew McConaughey and Conor Benn. But behind the lens lies a deeper struggle — the mental and physical toll of pushing too hard for too long.In this episode, we discuss:The signs of burnout in high achieversHow to balance ambition with wellbeingThe impact of diet, sleep, and media consumption on performanceWhy even the most successful need to slow downTools to build a sustainable work-life balanceThis raw and honest conversation pulls back the curtain on the Instagram highlight reel, offering real-world advice for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone navigating the pressure of constant growth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sign up to my weekly newsletter Fuel Your Ambition, where I share insights to help you grow your money, business, or career: https://fuelyourambition.substack.com/In this episode, I sit down with Noel Mack, the Chief Brand Officer at Gymshark, to understand what it takes to build one of the UK’s biggest brands.Noel offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Gymshark has evolved from a scrappy e-commerce startup into a global powerhouse, with physical stores, millions of loyal customers, and a brand identity built on community, authenticity, and relentless ambition.We explore what it really means to be a Chief Brand Officer, and how Noel’s role is rooted in creating emotional connection, building culture, and obsessing over the customer journey.Noel also opens up about his unconventional path to the role, his drive to keep growing, and how staying humble and hungry fuels his success. This conversation is just as much about mindset as it is about marketing.00:34 Defining the Chief Brand Officer Role01:06 Emotional Connection and Customer Experience02:18 Community Engagement and Product Development06:53 The Journey to Gymshark09:07 Maintaining Core Values 11:47 Customer Obsession and Feedback19:41 Personal Reflections and Career Path30:01 Humble Beginnings31:27 Gym Shark's Work Ethic 34:03 Expanding to Physical Stores41:09 Ambition and Personal Drive44:10 Balancing Ambition and Overcommitment48:42 Future Goals and Personal Ambitions54:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Mitch returns for his second appearance on the podcast, but this time, we’re also joined by his mentor and boss, Mark, to get the full story. In the first episode, Mitch shared how Mark played a pivotal role in his career growth. Now, we hear Mark's version of events, offering a unique perspective on mentorship, ambition, and business growth.Mitch and Mark discuss the key elements of their business success, from strategic planning and setting goals to navigating challenges and leveraging mentorship.They explore how they transformed a small accounting firm into a thriving business with 77 employees, all while maintaining a focus on personal growth and leadership. Plus, they discuss how spiritual practices like meditation have helped shape their leadership styles and fostered a purpose-driven approach to business.00:00 Introduction02:03 The Early Years04:38 Mark's Journey into Accountancy07:19 Mitch's Evolution in the Company13:29 Systemising the Business for Growth18:36 The Role of Mentorship and Trust27:05 Scaling the Business and Setting Goals37:23 Discussing Departure from Dens38:18 Lockdown Challenges and Learnings40:30 Transition to CEO Role44:05 Leadership Styles and Decision Making51:55 Spirituality and Meditation in Business56:57 Ambition and Purpose01:02:17 Supporting Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs01:04:37 Reflecting on Mentorship and Growth01:12:04 Concluding Thoughts and Future GoalsDiscover Nordens and MitchWebsite - www.nordens.co.ukLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/nordens-chartered-accountants-&-business-advisers/Follow Mitch on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/mitchhahn/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Andrew Craig returns for his second appearance on the podcast, and in this episode, we delve into why so many people make investment mistakes—or choose not to invest at all. We also explore the UK’s wealth crisis, discussing its causes and potential solutions. Andrew shares insights from his latest book Our Future Is Biotech, revealing the groundbreaking scientific advancements that could lead to healthier, longer lives.Join us as we discuss the role of financial literacy, the biotech revolution, and the power of compounding in creating lasting personal and financial growth.00:00 The UK's Wealth Crisis: An Overview00:25 The Biotech Revolution: A New Era01:06 The Cash ISA Dilemma01:45 The Impact of Financial Journalism03:37 The Economic Consequences of Poor Investment06:57 The Global Wealth Disparity13:31 The Role of Technology in Wealth Creation19:56 The Importance of Financial Literacy32:45 Healthy Eating Habits from Childhood33:20 Economic Growth and Wealth Creation34:46 Reflecting on the 1970s Economy36:54 The Future of Biotech47:44 Gene Editing and CRISPR Technology52:08 The Rise of Autism and ADHD58:45 The Complexity of Human Biology01:04:55 Discussing Chris Hemsworth and Free Solo01:05:09 The Importance of Visualization in Extreme Sports01:05:43 Pushing the Frontiers of Human Capability01:06:53 The Power of Compounding and Consistency01:08:49 Exciting Advances in Microbiome and Bioremediation01:10:05 The Miracles of Precision Medicine01:12:49 The Abundance of Modern Life01:15:40 The Importance of Reading and Continuous Learning01:18:49 The Impact of Podcasts on Personal Growth01:22:29 Economic Models and Government Intervention01:26:58 Concluding Thoughts and ReflectionsDiscover AndrewWebsite - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCME6xVzdcA7q_RfhRaRIkPALinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcraigpef/?originalSubdomain=ukBooks - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/booksGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What if you could turn a teenage side hustle into a company that runs over 4,000 events a year, without raising a penny of external funding?In this episode, I'm joined by Toby Burns, founder of The Silent Disco Company - the UK’s leading provider of silent disco infrastructure for parties, weddings, festivals, and corporate events.Toby shares how he went from entertaining kids at birthday parties to DJing luxury events, and ultimately scaling a business that’s redefining how people experience music and nightlife.He breaks down the realities of self-funding a company, the importance of sales over branding, and how AI is helping streamline his operations today.We also dive into lessons on hiring, managing burnout, investing in property, and why every entrepreneur should think about building a business to sell; even if they never plan to.00:00 Introduction to the Silent Disco Company01:02 The Journey of Toby Burns02:51 Innovating in the Event Industry04:45 The Importance of Sales and Innovation07:34 Balancing Work and Personal Life15:00 The Role of Education and AI24:53 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities36:16 Always Be Hiring: The Entrepreneur's Mindset36:41 Balancing Hands-On Work and Leveraged Work38:05 The Impact of Government Policies on Entrepreneurship38:40 AI and Automation in Business39:17 The Burden of Taxes on Business Owners46:57 The Importance of Owning Assets53:27 Building a Business to Sell55:16 The Future of AI and Education01:00:20 The Silent Disco Experience01:12:10 Advice for Aspiring EntrepreneursFollow TobyLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/toby-burnsWebsite - https://thesilentdiscocompany.co.uk/YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEventrepreneurGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Think negotiation is all about being tough? Think again. In this episode, I sit down once again with bestselling author and top sales coach Nicole Soames to uncover the underrated skills that actually win negotiations - from emotional intelligence to strategic silence.Whether you're asking for a raise, closing a deal, or navigating a difficult conversation, this episode gives you the mindset, tools, and strategies to walk in with confidence and walk out with results. Nicole shares proven techniques used by professionals to consistently create win-win outcomes - including real-world examples, role-playing advice, and preparation tips that actually work.Back by popular demand, this is Nicole’s second appearance on the podcast. If you haven’t heard our first episode together, check out Episode 4300:00 Introduction01:02 Key Traits of a Good Negotiator02:48 Understanding the Negotiation Process04:15 Emotional Aspects of Negotiation09:40 Preparation for Negotiation15:47 Strategies and Tactics in Negotiation35:53 Practicing Negotiation Skills37:40 The Importance of Practice in Negotiation38:09 Role Playing and Preparation Techniques39:52 Everyday Negotiation Opportunities40:57 Delegation as a Form of Negotiation44:38 Negotiating Salaries and Pay Rises51:50 Strategies for Job Offer Negotiations01:04:11 Emotional Intelligence in Negotiation01:06:50 Conclusion and Next Steps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Josh White, CEO and Co-Founder of Cano Water, is on a mission to fight plastic pollution with a simple yet powerful idea: providing an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water using 100% recyclable aluminum cans. The goal is simple - to put the planet before profit and make sustainability a new benchmark in the drinks industry.But Josh’s path to success hasn’t been easy. In this episode, he opens up about his struggles with addiction, ADHD, and being expelled from school, all as a teenager. Despite these setbacks, Josh managed to channel his addictive personality into something positive; building his business, raising his daughter, and helping others who are going through their own struggles.Josh is one of the most humble, purpose-driven entrepreneurs I’ve had the pleasure of talking to. His commitment to putting others before himself and making a real difference in the world is genuinely inspiring.00:00 Intro01:16 Profit vs. Planet: The Harsh Realities of Business07:33 Personal Battles: ADHD and Addiction as a Teenager28:04 Finding Purpose: From DJing to Entrepreneurship46:54 The Harsh Realities of Corporate Power48:17 Creating a Global Brand50:29 How You Source Water56:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs with ADHD01:04:49 The Importance of Mental Health Conversations01:17:32 Fatherhood and Personal Growth01:27:43 The Future of Work and Creativity01:30:00 Final Thoughts and ReflectionsFollow JoshLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joshwhite2201Cano Water - https://canowater.com/Get In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Xenia Muether is an entrepreneur who’s turned her ADHD diagnosis into a superpower for her business.Leaving the corporate world behind, Xenia built her own niche marketing agency. She talks about the challenges she faced, from overcoming self-doubt to navigating the most difficult year for her business.Xenia also opens up about her ADHD diagnosis in her 20s and how this helped her better understand her brain, tap into its strengths, and develop a leadership style that works for her. She discusses her strategies for managing ADHD and using it to her advantage in business.Xenia also shares advice for companies looking to market the brand, including how understanding generational differences - especially for Gen Z and Gen Alpha - is key to successful marketing strategies. Plus, she discusses why having a clear target audience is crucial and how working with challenger and impact brands helped shape her approach.00:00 Introduction 01:03 Personal Background and Career Beginnings01:45 Transition to London and Career Growth03:19 Realising the Need for Change05:01 Starting the First Agency07:52 Expanding into New Markets09:19 Working with Challenger and Impact Brands12:30 Full-Service Marketing Strategies14:16 Importance of Target Audience Analysis19:18 Platform-Specific Marketing Approaches22:43 The Rise of AI in Marketing26:50 Generational Differences in Marketing30:32 The Demand for Authenticity37:55 Balancing Convenience and Privacy39:52 Cultural Differences and Personal Reflections41:11 Ambitions and Overcoming Barriers46:19 Balancing Business Operations and Growth46:38 Time Management Strategies47:20 Delegation and Team Trust49:51 ADHD Diagnosis and Impact52:11 Harnessing ADHD as a Superpower55:59 Challenges of ADHD in Daily Life01:05:25 Navigating a Tough Business Year01:08:06 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome01:14:32 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs01:24:07 Future Ambitions and Business GrowthFollow XeniaLinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/xenia-muetherGet In TouchLinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.comInstagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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

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

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

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

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