Startup Sensations

<p>Welcome to <strong>The Startup Sensations Podcast</strong>, the weekly transatlantic business podcast that takes you on a journey into the world of startups from Both Sides of The Pond. Join us as we explore the stories, strategies, and successes from the most innovative startup founders, industry experts and active investors in North America, the UK and from around the world.</p><p>The show is hosted from the UK by <strong>Bulent Osman</strong>, exited tech founder, and from the US by <strong>Shelley Bays</strong>, founder of three international advisory firms. From Silicon Valley to London's tech scene, they will bring you interviews with inspiring founders, investors and experts who are making waves in the startup world.  </p><p>Whether you're a serial entrepreneur or just starting out, an investor, a sector service provider, or someone who is fascinated to learn more, The Startup Sensations Podcast has something informative and motivational for you. </p><p>Subscribe to this podcast on your favourite podcast platform, so you never miss an episode. </p><p>Email us at <a href="mailto:hello@startupsensations.com">hello@startupsensations.com</a>.</p><p>Join our community on The Startup Sensations Podcast <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/startup-sensations/?viewAsMember=true">LinkedIn Page</a> and watch video highlights on <a href="https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=startup+sensations+podcast">YouTube</a>.</p>

Creating a European Startup Community

S4 Bonus Ep5 - Phill Robinson is the founder of Boardwave, a networking community connecting CEOs and founders of software companies across Europe. With his belief that access to knowledge, skills, and experience is critical to success, Phill provides a space for software leaders to share best practices and ideas.  In this conversation with Bulent and Shelley, he discusses why it is important we create a community of start-up businesses to help with business growth and provide peer support when needed. This episode is sponsored by Deel - No more headaches with trying to manage your global workforce, compliantly hire and pay employees with Deel.com. Visit Deel.com by clicking here https://bit.ly/4f0yBYH Phill Robinson - https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillrobinson/ Boardwave - https://www.boardwave.org/ Follow this show on your podcast app and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page. Watch video highlights on YouTube. We love hearing your feedback, so email us at hello@startupsensations.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

12-03
42:12

How to Seek Funding from an Angel Investor Network

Sarah Turner founded Angel Academe 11 years ago to make a real difference. She has built this successful angel investor network into a supportive and empowering environment to encourage more women to join the startup ecosystem.  In this episode, Sarah discusses the key issues faced by women founders and early-stage investors, offering practical advice for both. Key points include: The qualities investors seek in a founder, including Emotional Intelligence  How best to pitch your business  Typical mistakes founders and angel investors make and how to avoid making them.  Sarah Turner - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahturneruk/ Angel Academe - https://www.angelacademe.com/ Follow this show on your podcast app and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page. Watch video highlights on YouTube. We love hearing your feedback, so email us at hello@startupsensations.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

11-27
35:40

How To Develop Killer Sales Skills for Startups

S4 Bonus Ep3 - Scott Kaplan is a born salesperson, with a natural instinct for the art of selling. From a young age, he was already honing his skills, with his first foray into sales at the age of six. However, he understands that training and processes are also important in the world of startup sales. Having spoken to numerous salespeople, he recognizes the difference between those who have a natural talent and those who need more guidance and training.  In this conversation, Scott explains what he looks for in potential salespeople for a startup and provides guidance on how to maximise your sales potential. This episode is sponsored by Deel - No more headaches with trying to manage your global workforce, compliantly hire and pay employees with Deel.com. Visit Deel.com by clicking here https://bit.ly/4f0yBYH Scott Kaplan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottkaplan/ Follow this show on your podcast app and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page. Watch video highlights on YouTube. We love hearing your feedback, so email us at hello@startupsensations.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

11-19
40:30

From Sommelier to Leading a High-Growth Pharma Company

S4 Bonus Ep2 - Gilly Regev is co-founder and Chief Strategy & Innovation Officer of SaNOtize, an exciting young pharmaceutical company based in Vancouver, Canada. The company has developed a disruptive, first-in-class technology that delivers the antimicrobial benefits of Nitric Oxide to treat a variety of infectious conditions.   In this episode, Gilly revisits her early experiences as a sommelier, shares the inside story of SaNOtize from inception to today, and describes the key challenges in the pharma sector. She also opens up about being in the army and her personal leadership philosophies and tactics. Key topics include:   ●      Strategies for building and motivating a core team ●      How to choose meaningful company values ●      Importance of ‘doing the hard things’   This episode is sponsored by Deel - No more headaches with trying to manage your global workforce, compliantly hire and pay employees with Deel.com. Visit Deel.com by clicking here https://bit.ly/4f0yBYH Gilly Regev - https://www.linkedin.com/in/gilly-regev/ Follow this show on your podcast app and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page. Watch video highlights on YouTube. We love hearing your feedback, so email us at hello@startupsensations.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

11-12
38:52

What Do Tech Investors Look For In You?

S4 Bonus Ep1 - Raj Singh, Managing Partner at JLL Spark in Silicon Valley, shares his insights with Bulent & Shelley about what investors are looking for in you as a founder of a UK or US startup company.   In this episode, Raj shares his insights into the different approaches taken by VCs on both sides of the Atlantic, as well as the importance of understanding how businesses generate and capture value.   This episode is sponsored by Deel - No more headaches with trying to manage your global workforce, compliantly hire and pay employees with Deel.com. Visit Deel.com by clicking here https://bit.ly/4f0yBYH   Raj Singh - https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajsingh/   Follow this show on your podcast app and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page. Watch video highlights on YouTube. We love hearing your feedback, so email us at hello@startupsensations.com.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

11-05
39:02

The Critical Role of Corporate Governance in Startups

S4 Ep12 - Faisal Khan, an influential figure at the Institute of Directors, serves as the chair for the southern region and is a pivotal member of the IoD's expert advisory group for Science, Innovation, and Technology. In this engaging episode, Faisal Khan sits down with Shelley and Bulent to delve into the critical role of corporate governance in startups, exploring the intricate relationship between cybersecurity and effective management. Faisal highlights the paramount importance of education for board members, the role of a non-executive chairman, and the benefits of establishing strong governance principles from the outset. The conversation also touches on the implications of AI on business and offers a reflection on Faisal's esteemed career at IBM, emphasising patience and diligence. 🎙️ Key Topics: The essential role of governance in running a successful business The significance of the relationship between a CEO and the chairman The intersection of cybersecurity and corporate governance The need for board members to understand cybersecurity risks and regulations Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Faisal Khan - https://www.linkedin.com/in/khanfaisalali/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-21
35:47

Investing Insights: Navigating Markets and Nurturing Growth

S4 Ep11 - Fred Cohen and Mike Mortimer are two distinguished American investors based in London, each with a unique approach to investing in healthcare and life sciences companies. In this insightful episode, Fred and Mike share their experiences and strategies for successful investing. They discuss the importance of finding the right terms for a deal, aligning with strong management teams, and navigating the cultural differences between the UK and the US. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by European companies in the life sciences sector and the role of private equity in early-stage companies. 🎙️ Key Topics: - The approach of making only a few carefully chosen investments each year - The significance of passion, insight, and shared vision in founders - The optimal relationship between private equity and the management team - Navigating the delicate balance between showing strength and revealing concerns as a founder Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Mike Mortimer - GHO Capital Partners LLP Fred Cohen - Monograph Capital Partnerslinkedin.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-13
41:32

Unlocking Social Media Secrets for Startups

S4 Ep10 - Phil Szomszor runs a consultancy company, Brightside, which helps business leaders with social media engagement, particularly on LinkedIn in the B2B landscape. In this engaging episode, Phil Szomszor discusses the oversaturation of LinkedIn podcasts and the necessity to serve a specific niche. He shares his extensive experience helping clients with social media strategy, emphasising the importance of understanding clients' strategic goals over mere metrics like impressions and reach.  Additionally, Phil delves into the challenges and successes of running a business with his partner, offering invaluable advice for budding entrepreneurs about focusing on passion, solving niche problems, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. 🎙️ Key Topics: Importance of niche focus in the oversaturated podcast market Strategic social media engagement versus metric chasing Balancing work and personal life while working from home Role of AI in augmenting rather than replacing human effort Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Phil Szomszor -  https://www.linkedin.com/in/philszomszor/ Brightside Digital Engagement - https://www.brightside.digital/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

08-01
38:13

Revolutionising Healthcare: AI, Global Collaboration and Future Trends

S4 Ep9 - Dimitrios Kalogeropoulos is a major player in the emerging health tech ecosystem, the founding director of the Global Health and Innovation Foundation, and a passionate advocate for transformative innovation in healthcare. In this insightful episode, Dimitrios shares his journey from growing up in a medical family in Greece to spearheading innovative initiatives in the UK. He tackles the dynamic world of health tech, delving into the promises and challenges of AI in medicine, the importance of global collaboration, and the pressing need to bridge regulatory gaps for startups. His vision for the future of healthcare is both revolutionary and grounded in pragmatic steps towards equity, inclusion, and resilience. 🎙️ Key Topics: The Role of AI in Transforming Healthcare Delivery Challenges and Opportunities in Global Health Collaboration The Impact of COVID-19 on Health Systems and Future Preparedness Navigating Regulatory Hurdles in the Health Tech Startup Scene Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Dimitrious Kalogeropoulos:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimitrios-kalogeropoulos-phd-95966b1a1/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-24
33:14

Aligning AI with Business Goals and Cultural Values

S4 Ep8 - Paul and Jeannie McGilvery are not just skilled business owners; they are the pioneering minds behind the innovative company called Remote, focusing on software development and business operations. In this engaging episode, Paul and Jeannie take us on a journey from their artistic beginnings to getting married and becoming successful co-founders of a thriving business. They share insights into balancing autonomy with structured feedback and the importance of aligning AI technology with clear business goals. With a deep passion for collaboration and a cautious yet bold approach to new technology, Paul and Jeanne provide listeners with invaluable advice for building and maintaining a sustainable, growth-oriented company. 🎙️ Key Topics: Aligning AI Technology with Business Goals Importance of a Supportive and Collaborative Company Culture The Value of Long-Term Client Relationships Balancing Caution and Boldness in Adopting New Technology Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Paul McGilliveray - https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmcgillivray/ Jeannie McGilliveray - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanniemcgillivray/ Remote - https://remote.online/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-17
40:16

Thriving in Fintech and Scale-up Ecosystems

S4 Ep7 - Betsy Dorudi is an accomplished regulatory lawyer and the Head of Public Policy at ClearBank, a major player in the UK’s fintech ecosystem. In this enlightening episode, Betsy sits down with Shelley Bays and Bulent Osman to explore her remarkable career journey from Cincinnati to the heart of London’s financial district. The conversation spans her roles in both startups and established institutions, delving into the complexities of the regulatory landscape that fintech companies navigate.  🎙️ Key Topics: Impact of Regulatory Changes on Fintech Companies The Role of ClearBank in the UK Fintech Ecosystem Betsy’s Career Path from the US to the UK Advice for Emerging Fintech Startups and Entrepreneurs Follow us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Betsy Dorudi - https://www.linkedin.com/in/betsy-niklas-dorudi-0b9b791/ ClearBank Ltd - https://clear.bank/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-10
31:47

Season 4 Bonus - Funding Special (Part 2)

Join us for the second of two special bonus episodes of The Startup Sensations Podcast, where we have compiled excellent funding advice from another five expert guests from the first 3 seasons of the show.  In this episode, our guests offer guidance on how best to raise capital, what investors look for and how to avoid common mistakes.   🎙️ Key Topics from our experts: Raj Singh - on how to pitch effectively, avoiding typical mistakes. Sarah Turner - on emotional intelligence and having a clear business plan. Michael Blakey - on the importance of communication and trust. Helen McBreen - on strategic planning and advice for female founders Tom Meyer - on the future of AI's potential to enhance business efficiency. Remember to listen to the full episodes for each of our 10 experts from this episode and Part 1 last week.  FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

07-03
29:26

Season 4 Bonus - Funding Special (Part 1)

Join us for the first of two special bonus episodes of Startup Sensations, where we have compiled the finest funding advice from 5 expert guests from the first 3 seasons of the podcast.  In this episode, our guests offer excellent advice on how to raise capital, what investors look for and how to avoid common mistakes.   🎙️ Key Topics from our 5 Experts: Reuben Wilcock - on the importance of the team  Matt Jonns - on the personal attributes investors seek in a founder  Tina Baker - explores common legal pitfalls with Term Sheets Jamie Roberts - on what to expect during the Due Diligence process David Horne - analyses the challenges female founders face raising capital Don’t miss Part 2 of the Funding Special next week with another 5 experts sharing their advice. FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-26
27:16

Transforming International Customer Experience

S4 Ep6 - Fiona Blades is a pioneering marketing professional who has successfully expanded her business across international territories, including establishing a presence in New York. In this insightful episode, Fiona delves into her journey from studying English and drama to becoming a leader in real-time experience tracking technology space. She reflects on the challenges and triumphs of setting up offices in multiple countries, emphasising the importance of understanding cultural differences and maintaining a strong support network. The conversation also sheds light on groundbreaking marketing metrics and Fiona's vision for the future. 🎙️ Key Topics: Fiona's journey from studying English and drama to a successful entrepreneurial career The importance of understanding cultural differences in international business Introducing 'share of experience' as a crucial marketing metric Transitioning to a subscription-based model and securing investor funding Don't miss out on this compelling episode!  FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-18
37:47

Charting the Course: AI's Influence on Modern Startups

S4 Ep5 - Steve Pao - Join us for an illuminating conversation with Steve Pao, a seasoned tech executive, advisor, and investor based in Portland, Oregon.  In this insightful episode, Steve shares his wealth of knowledge and personal experiences spanning the tech startup landscape, from the dot-com boom to the current AI revolution. Explore the evolution of AI and its profound impact on startups, as Steve provides valuable insights into navigating the ever-changing investment environment. Gain a deeper understanding of the historical context of tech innovation and its future trajectory, along with strategies for startups to bridge the gap between early success and mainstream acceptance. 🎙️ Key Topics: The Evolution of AI and its Impact on Startups Navigating the Changing Investment Environment Historical Context of Tech Innovation and Future Trajectories Strategies for Startups to Achieve Mainstream Success Don't miss out on this compelling episode! FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Steve Pao - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevep/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-11
32:00

How to Go From Corporate Comfort to Startup Success

S4 Ep4 - Leslie Danford, Founder of Vitaminis and a trailblazing entrepreneur, joins us to share her inspiring journey from a corporate career to launching her own functional food and beverage brand in Chicago, USA. In this intriguing and motivational episode, Leslie recounts her transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship after being laid off during the pandemic. She discusses the incremental approach she used to self-fund her business, highlighting the significance of self-management and mental fortitude. Leslie delves into the value of networking groups and the importance of recognising one's true calling.  Furthermore, she opens up about the biases faced by female entrepreneurs and her current mission to scale her business in both brick and mortar retail and online. 🎙️ Key Topics: The Transition from Corporate World to Entrepreneurship Incremental Investment Strategies and Self-Funding Challenges and Triumphs of Female Entrepreneurs Developing and Scaling Vitaminis: From Concept to Market Don't miss out on this compelling episode! FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Leslie Danford - https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-danford/ Vitiminis  - https://vitaminisbrand.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

06-04
33:21

Breaking Barriers: Accessible Travel Innovations

S4 Ep3 - Jay Shen is the founder and CEO of Transreport, a tech company committed to improving accessibility for disabled people using public transport. In this enlightening episode, Jay shares his remarkable journey from a small city in China to becoming a key player in the UK startup scene. Despite initial challenges and feelings of isolation, Jay found his purpose in enhancing mobility for the disabled community. Hosts Bulent Osman and Shelley Bays engage Jay in a compelling discussion on the importance of digital tools for frontline workers, the potential of AI in the future of transport, and Jay's vision for a more inclusive society. 🎙️ Key Topics: Jay Shen's Transition from China to the UK and His Entrepreneurial Influences Overcoming Challenges and Adapting to New Environments The Future of Transport Accessibility and the Role of Technology The Expansion Vision of Transreport into Multimodal Transport Solutions Don't miss out on this compelling episode! FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Jay Shen - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-shen-b9477960/ Transreport - https://transreport.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

05-28
31:18

Transforming Health and Business with Rare Sugars

S4 Ep2 - Pete Ferrari. Join us for a fascinating conversation with Pete Ferrari, founder and president of Global Foods Group, as he shares his incredible journey from real estate to transforming the food industry with rare sugars. Discover how Pete navigated the challenges of bringing innovative food products to market in a tech-dominated investment landscape, while also overcoming personal obstacles such as divorce and sole custody of his daughter. Gain insights into the influence of AI on business innovation, the role of a stoic philosophy in entrepreneurship, and the strategic moves required for global market penetration. 🎙️ Key Topics: Transitioning from Real Estate to Innovative Consumer Products Harnessing AI for Business Innovation and Efficiency Applying Stoic Philosophy in Entrepreneurship Overcoming Challenges in Funding and Global Expansion Don't miss out on this compelling episode! FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Pete Ferrari - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pete-f-412493208/ Jaca Sugar - https://jacasugar.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

05-21
39:42

Thriving Amidst Challenges: A Journey of Growth

S4 Ep1 - Roei Samuel. Join us for an inspiring conversation with Roei Samuel, founder of the successful tech company Connectd and a respected mentor and advisor. In this insightful episode, Roei shares his remarkable journey from overcoming academic obstacles to mastering the world of tech startups. Explore essential traits for successful founders, strategies for maintaining mental and physical wellbeing in high-pressure environments, and insights into the future of entrepreneurship and technological adoption. Roei also discusses his experiences and challenges with international expansion, particularly in the U.S. 🎙️ Key Topics: Essential Traits for Successful Founders Strategies for Mental and Physical Wellbeing The Future of Entrepreneurship and Technological Adoption Challenges and Lessons Learned from International Expansion Don't miss out on this compelling episode! FOLLOW us on your favourite podcast platform and join us on The Startup Sensations Podcast LinkedIn page.  Watch exclusive video highlights on our YouTube channel and share your feedback at hello@startupsensations.com. Roei Samuel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/roei-samuel/ Connectd - https://www.connectd.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

05-14
38:57

Transforming Women's Health: A Fascinating Journey of Innovation

S3 Ep12 - Amber Vodegel - For the final episode of Season 3, step into the world of women's health technology with Amber Vodegel, a visionary entrepreneur on a mission to revolutionise global health, particularly in women's wellness. In this captivating episode, Amber shares her inspiring journey in the tech world, driven by her ambition to make a significant impact on women's health worldwide. Discover how Amber's groundbreaking work in integrating technology with women's health has led to the remarkable growth of her Pregnancy Plus app, now guiding 2 million women daily. Gain insights into the importance of cultural work ethics and the power of localisation in entrepreneurship, as Amber reflects on her journey filled with creative freedom and social responsibility. 🎙️ Key Topics: Navigating Team Dynamics and Cultural Aspects in Business Exploring the Intersection of Women's Health and Technology Embracing Purpose and Social Responsibility in Entrepreneurship Unlocking the Future of Women's Health Apps with AI Don't miss this final episode of Season 3, to learn how Amber is transforming the landscape of women's health through innovation. Season 4 is coming soon. S4 Ep1 - Tuesday 7th May 2024.   #StartupSensations #WomenInTech #HealthTechTransformation Amber Vodegel - https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-vodegel-0995556/ Stay connected! Subscribe to our podcast on your favourite platform and join our vibrant The Startup Sensations Podcast community on our LinkedIn page.  For exclusive video highlights, visit our YouTube channel. Your feedback matters to us, so drop us a line at hello@startupsensations.com. We look forward to hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

04-02
36:29

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