Scaling up your business isn't easy, and can be a little daunting. Let ScaleUp Radio make it a little easier for you. With guests who have been where you are now, and can offer their thoughts and advice on several aspects of business, ScaleUp Radio is the business podcast you've been waiting for.
If you would like to be a guest on ScaleUp Radio, you can get in touch with Granger here: grangerf@biz-smart.co.uk.
Designing Products That Change Lives, Innovation, Resilience and Radical Teamwork
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio we dive deep into the world of product design engineering with Jono Taylor, founder of Relay Industries.
Jono has spent ten years building a business that brings breakthrough physical products to life, helping solve real-world problems in medical, industrial, scientific and connected technology sectors. From life-saving blood pumps and IoT telematics hardware to quantum physics instrumentation, Relay Industries stands out by combining creativity with deep manufacturing insight.
What makes Jono’s journey special is the unwavering belief in humility, shared thinking and building long-term relationships. He openly discusses the rollercoaster of growth: winning major international contracts, expanding rapidly, then facing a six-month drought that forced difficult decisions. Through resilience and relentless networking, the company rebuilt stronger and now operates with a flexible team structure powered by freelancers treated like true teammates.
At the heart of Relay Industries sits a passion that shines through every story: designing products that genuinely improve lives, avoiding landfill for landfill's sake, and creating environments where people and ideas thrive.
From Wind Farms to Wisdom: How Neptune Infrastructure Powers Renewable Success
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Hamish Yates, founder and CEO of Neptune Infrastructure Associates, a fast-growing advisory firm dedicated to helping asset managers optimise the performance of renewable energy projects across Europe.
With experience advising on over £2 billion of projects powering more than two million homes, Hamish brings a rare blend of engineering rigour and entrepreneurial purpose to the clean energy space.
We explore how Neptune was built on a foundation of practical experience and values, offering something distinctly different to the consulting norm, a hands-on team of experts who’ve sat “in the hot seat” managing billion-pound wind farms. Hamish shares how his time at Orsted, where he led the world’s largest offshore wind farm, shaped his mission to “accelerate the energy transition” by helping investors deliver greater returns while doing good for the planet.
Beyond business mechanics, we talk about the human side of scaling, the loneliness of the founder’s journey, the lessons from hiring missteps, and the power of creating an employee-owned culture from day one. For Hamish, it’s about aligning the team around a shared purpose and giving everyone a stake in the company’s success.
Scaling with Heart and Strategy: How Authenticity and Team Culture Fuel the Fractional Revolution
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I sit down with Kat Wellum-Kent, founder of The Fractionals Group. A business built on the powerful idea that scale-ups deserve fractional support that truly integrates into their teams.
Kat shares her inspiring journey from accountant to entrepreneur, revealing how a chance lunch with a friend in Australia sparked her leap into creating Fractional Finance and later Fractional Human Resources. From just an idea to a 12-person team working with over 22 clients, her story embodies courage, clarity, and purpose.
We explore how Kat has differentiated her business in an increasingly competitive market by blending strategic CFO-level insight with operational finance delivery and how she’s applied the same model to HR. It’s a blueprint for scale-ups seeking high-impact expertise without full-time hires.
What shines through most is Kat’s authenticity. She speaks candidly about learning from early hiring missteps, building a culture of honesty and alignment in a remote team, and leading with empathy. Her leadership approach, grounded in openness, intuition, and continuous improvement has built a business where people grow together.
From Boardrooms to Breakthroughs: Building a Boutique Agency that Gives Healthcare Innovation a Voice
This episode of ScaleUp Radio features Michael Colling-Tuck, founder of Agency Bristol, a specialist marketing agency helping medical and technology innovators reach both patients and healthcare professionals. With over twenty years in healthcare, Michael has seen how even the most brilliant inventions can fail if no one knows they exist. His agency bridges that critical gap, giving groundbreaking products a fighting chance to reach the people whose lives they can transform.
What makes Michael’s story stand out is the combination of deep industry experience, genuine humility, and the relentless curiosity of a founder who has seen the highs and lows of scaling. From watching masterclass marketing moments in China to almost getting it wrong twice with his own cash flow, Michael’s honesty about resilience, learning, and leadership gives listeners a real and relatable founder story.
He shares how Agency Bristol crafts campaigns that empower advocates, surgeons, clinicians, and patients, to become the best storytellers for new technologies. It’s a blend of creativity, structure, and empathy that transforms technical ideas into powerful messages that resonate with real people.
When Pain Sparks Purpose: How a Physiotherapist Built a Thriving Multi-Site Practice through Learning to Lead Every Step of the Way
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Paul Wray, the owner of Breakspeare Clinic, a multi-site physiotherapy and wellness practice based in West Oxfordshire.
Paul’s story is one of continuous learning, resilience, and a genuine commitment to helping people move better and live pain-free lives. Starting as a physiotherapist over 30 years ago, he worked within the NHS before joining Breakspeare Clinic, eventually buying the business after a decade of hands-on experience. Today, his clinics span three locations, combining physiotherapy, osteopathy, podiatry, and complementary therapies to address not just symptoms but root causes of pain.
In our conversation, Paul opens up about the highs and lows of buying and growing a business, from parting ways with a business partner to rebuilding his team, refining his processes, and embracing technology. What stands out is his humility and curiosity, his belief that leadership and business acumen, like physiotherapy, are skills you can learn and refine with the right guidance.
Paul also talks candidly about the challenges of communication, people management, and the power of surrounding yourself with the right mentors. His focus on mentoring young practitioners, improving systems, and growing with purpose is a masterclass in “grow people” and “fix what bugs you” thinking.
Ahead of the Curve: Building Better Futures through Sustainable Architecture and Learning
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Tom Locke, co-founder of Habitat+ Architects, a Gloucestershire-based practice that’s redefining how sustainability meets great design.
Tom’s journey is one of courage and curiosity. He and his business partner stepped away from the comfort of employment during COVID to create a business that truly reflected their values. Their goal? To build spaces that not only look beautiful but also work in harmony with the environment and the people who use them.
Through Habitat+, Tom champions Passive House design, an internationally recognised energy standard that cuts carbon emissions and creates comfortable, efficient spaces. But what really shines through is his belief that sustainability isn’t an add-on, it’s a mindset. It’s about how we think, design, source, and build for long-term impact.
We also dive into the realities of running a growing practice, learning to manage people, balancing client work with business building, and finding time for creative reflection. Tom’s approach to leadership is rooted in continuous learning, both for himself and his team. He even teaches at university, sharing his passion for design and growth with the next generation.
How a Family Duo Redefined Recruitment with Heart, Honesty and Local Spirit
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Harry Shearer, co-founder of Shearer Associates, a Gloucestershire-based finance recruitment firm that’s built its success on relationships, trust, and a strong local ethos.
Harry shares how he and his mum, Claire, turned a simple “why not give it a go?” conversation in their garden into a thriving recruitment business serving Gloucestershire, Worcestershire and Herefordshire. Their approach is refreshingly personal in a world increasingly driven by KPIs and quick wins.
Throughout our conversation, Harry reveals how Shearer Associates focuses on long-term partnerships, not transactions, and how that authenticity has become their defining advantage. We also explore how being small and family-run allows them to stay agile, adaptable and deeply connected to their community.
Harry talks openly about the early challenges of balancing the excitement of growth with staying disciplined in the business fundamentals, from cashflow to marketing. You’ll hear how structure, systems and the Pomodoro method keep him grounded and productive, even when the to-do list feels endless.
Building Relationships, Not Contracts: Creating a Business That Truly Cares
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I sit down with Tom Hill, founder and director of Collina MEP, a mechanical and electrical design consultancy based in Bristol that has grown rapidly since its launch in 2021. Tom shares how he left behind corporate consultancy life to create a business with a difference, one that blends technical excellence with a genuine personal touch.
From the early lonely days of handling everything himself, through to building a thriving team of 11 in just a few years, Tom opens up about the highs and lows of starting and scaling a consultancy. He reveals the importance of culture, why leading by example is key, and how focusing on relationships rather than contracts has been central to their success.
What shines through is Tom’s deep commitment to client trust, sustainability, and the wellbeing of his team. From sending hampers at Easter to ensuring every project feels personal, his boutique approach sets Collina MEP apart in an industry often dominated by the “bare minimum.”
If you’ve ever wondered how to balance growth with culture, or how to create repeat business through trust and care, this conversation is full of golden insights.
Building Stronger Businesses Through ERP Systems, Culture and Courage to Let Go
On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Ric Wilson, founder of ERP Experts and now an active investor, who shares a remarkable journey of building, scaling, and transforming businesses.
Ric began his career in the pharmaceutical industry, before stepping into entrepreneurship in 2005. What started as a consultancy soon evolved into ERP Experts, a seven-figure business and Oracle partner, helping small and mid-market firms integrate their systems for a single version of the truth. But Ric’s story goes far beyond ERP. He talks candidly about the hard lessons of letting go, empowering teams, and why systemisation is the foundation of sustainable growth.
Culture sits at the heart of Ric’s leadership. With almost no staff turnover, he reveals how listening, development planning, and consistent HR processes created a workplace where people genuinely thrive. His “aftercare” approach to clients — going beyond support to deliver real peace of mind — is another hallmark of what makes ERP Experts stand out.
In more recent years, Ric has expanded into acquiring and turning around businesses with a buy-and-build strategy. He explains the critical markers he looks for when considering acquisitions — from proven lead flow to robust customer retention — and why the toughest thing in business will always be finding and keeping customers.
Turning Adversity into Innovation and Changing Lives One Sensory Product at a Time
On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I had the pleasure of speaking with Andy Western, founder of AJW Solutions and Sam Boards.
Andy’s story is one of resilience, reinvention, and remarkable innovation. From a five-million-pound management buyout falling through to starting AJW Solutions in 2007, he carved a niche in the defence and aerospace industry. Supplying the MOD within months of launching, Andy built a trusted reputation in engineering, project management, and ground support equipment.
But Andy’s real pivot came when life introduced him to a new challenge — and opportunity. Inspired by the needs of autistic teenagers, he founded Sam Boards, creating sensory activity and motor skill products that were both discreet and effective. What started as 3D-printed prototypes quickly gained traction in schools, hospitals, dementia care homes, and even police custody suites, helping people manage anxiety, neurodiverse challenges, and recovery.
Today, Sam Boards products are used by 14 UK police forces, the NHS, and organisations as far away as Australia and Ukraine. Andy’s journey shows how adversity — from divorce to COVID setbacks — can be turned into purpose-driven innovation with global impact.
Why Knowing Your Ideal Customer Changes Everything for Growth with Dave Allen
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Dave Allen, Managing Director of Square One Network, a B2B telecoms provider based in Bristol. Dave’s journey is a great example of leadership growth in action.
Having fallen into the telecoms world in the late 90s, Dave has built his career around the belief that communication is at the heart of all good business. Since becoming MD of Square One Network, he’s steered the company through significant cultural shifts, focusing on building a local-first, people-centred telecoms business.
In this conversation, Dave shares how taking the time to properly define their ideal customer profile transformed their marketing and growth strategy. He speaks openly about the importance of getting the right people into the business, often hiring on personality first and skills second. His philosophy is simple: people buy from people.
We also dive into the financial disciplines Dave adopted after inheriting a company that had experienced several rounds of private equity investment. His lessons on forecasting, cash flow management, and building sustainable growth are invaluable for any business leader.
Sustainability Isn’t a Side Hustle, It’s the Future of Businesses making a Local Impacts with Emma Burlow
On this edition of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Emma Burlow, founder of Lighthouse Sustainability and a leading voice in the world of circular economy and sustainable business.
Emma’s journey spans over 25 years in sustainability – and she’s not just talking the talk. From her early days in waste management to becoming head of circular economy at Resource Futures and founding her own business, she’s been on the front line helping organisations make a genuine, lasting impact.
In our conversation, Emma shares how Lighthouse Sustainability helps businesses scale by embedding sustainability in ways that are practical, measurable, and commercially viable. She challenges the myth that being ethical is expensive, showing instead how sustainability is a driver of innovation, customer loyalty, and investor confidence.
We dive into her #BeTheDifference campaign, her experience advising start-ups and multinationals alike, and the shift in mindset required to build a business that’s not just successful, but significant. With storytelling and clear frameworks, Emma shows business leaders how to take action that counts – and how to communicate it with credibility.
A Mission to Reinvent Fleet Security Through Camaraderie and Code with Kevin Pope
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Kevin Pope, the dynamic Managing Director of Protrack Solutions and Biostart Security.
Kevin’s story begins with a military mindset and a knack for spotting opportunity. After leaving the army, he entered the world of telematics and soon saw a gap he just had to fill. That leap of faith led to Protrack – a vehicle and fleet tracking business that’s now an innovation leader in compliance apps and software integration for businesses across the UK.
What stands out in Kevin’s journey is his relentless problem-solving spirit. From creating barcode-based vehicle safety checks to pioneering job scheduling and compliance management apps, his company helps clients save time, money and stress. Their standout system, OneCore Software (OCS), brings simplicity and centralisation to what’s often a fragmented operational nightmare.
But Kevin didn’t stop there. Enter Biostart – a biometric vehicle ignition and security system that stops theft before it even happens. This bold move, supported by over £1 million in smart funding, is set to disrupt the fleet management industry with its Fathom-approved, patent-protected innovation.
The Startup That Refused to Follow the Rules by an Accountant Reinventing Event Finances One Festival at a Time
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Chris Carter, founder of EventWise and long-time accountant behind In The Loop.
Chris shares an incredible five-year journey of building a startup in one of the most volatile industries – live events – all while raising a young family, getting married, and self-funding the entire venture. His software, EventWise, was born out of necessity during the Covid-19 pandemic, but it's proving even more vital today. EventWise helps event organisers replace clunky, outdated spreadsheets with live financial data and smart scenario planning.
What stands out is Chris’s resilience and honest reflection. He didn’t follow conventional startup wisdom—he built out all five core functionalities before launch, learned the hard way about marketing, and now has over 800 events using the platform, including major names like Broadwick. EventWise isn’t just software; it’s a tool built by someone who’s lived the pain points of event planning.
Chris also opens up about managing burnout, the importance of team culture, and his transition from accountant to tech startup founder. His clarity of vision, perseverance, and deep love for the events industry shine through in every story he tells.
Brand Like a Jedi, Lead Like a Human and Why Purpose-Driven Companies Attract Loyal Teams and Clients
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I talk with Darrell Irwin, the visionary founder behind Cre8ion, Digital, and Humans.
Darrell’s story isn’t just about scaling multiple businesses – it’s about scaling with meaning. From walking away from a lucrative agency deal over ethical misalignment to founding Cre8ion, a brand marketing agency rooted in purpose, Darrell shows us what it looks like when personal values shape business success.
We explore how he built a tight-knit team through a unique pathway from volunteer to full-time employment, the surprising benefits of a four-day work week, and how constraint actually fuels creativity. His philosophy? Focus on people, purpose, and planet – and profit becomes a byproduct of meaningful impact.
His leadership approach shines through in Humans, a personal development company creating space for real, raw conversations. Their ‘Humans Talks’ are like TED Talks but unfiltered – sharing life, struggle, and breakthrough in ways that connect beyond business.
Reignite Your Creativity and Build a Beautiful Business from Fabric and Focus
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by the inspiring Alice Garrett, founder of Alice Caroline, a business built around the joyful art of quilting, Liberty Fabrics, and empowering creativity.
What began as a desire to make Liberty Fabric more accessible to fellow enthusiasts has grown into a thriving enterprise with 34 staff, global reach, and over 700 fabrics curated for quilters, makers, and creatives. Alice’s story is not just about fabric – it’s about passion, purpose, and reconnecting people with creativity through beautifully designed sewing kits, workshops, and books.
We talk about how Alice evolved from PhD chemist to entrepreneur, learning every day on the job, and growing a business that now runs five distinct yet interconnected operations – from e-commerce to manufacturing, and from subscription clubs to workshops. It’s a perfect example of “embrace problems” turning into a life’s mission.
Culture is key in the Alice Caroline team, and Alice shares how she’s cultivated open communication, safe learning spaces, and the importance of transparency and trust – even when scaling. Her reflections on overcoming her own conflict aversion and learning to love leadership will resonate with any founder navigating growth.
Scaling a Business with Stories, Strategy and Heart
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I’m joined by Ben Lowndes, founder of Distinctive Communications, a fast-growing, purpose-led PR and communications consultancy based in the South West. Ben shares his unique journey — leaving a successful career without a set plan, building a business grounded in trust, flexibility and impact.
We explore how Distinctive Communications stands out in a noisy world by telling powerful, human-cantered stories and putting strategy before tactics. Ben opens up about why understanding your real "why" is crucial before you take action — a lesson that resonates deeply for anyone on a scale up journey.
We dive into the joy and challenges of flexible and remote working and how creating "fixed points" of connection within a hybrid team can be the secret to building culture and momentum. Ben also shares a powerful story of social impact, where his team’s work raised vital funds to combat holiday hunger in their community — a real example of business making a difference.
So, let’s now dive into the inspiring journey of building trust, flexible culture, and authentic impact with Ben.
Building a Brand with Trust, Numbers and a Fractional FD Model
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I sit down with Mark Nicholls, founder of Tectona Partnership – a business that provides part-time Finance Director services to companies navigating financial complexity.
Mark’s story is one of perseverance, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of what it takes to build trust and a brand in a competitive market.
Starting with just two people in 2012, Tectona has grown into a team of 17 highly qualified FDs, supporting businesses under £20m turnover who need strategic financial help but aren’t ready to bring someone in full-time.
We explore how Mark has learned the hard way about the value of delegation, why trying to do it all yourself is a false economy, and the slow but powerful growth that comes from building a reputation through networking and relationships – not just advertising spend.
Mark is passionate about helping businesses make better decisions through better data. He speaks candidly about the "price-volume matrix" and how understanding a few key levers in your business could dramatically boost your profitability.
Unlocking Business Growth the Human Way
This time, I had the true pleasure of talking to Bob Hayward, founder of two incredible ventures: Be More Effective and Key Performance Training.
Bob’s entrepreneurial journey is not only seasoned with decades of experience but fuelled by a deep commitment to improving the lives of others. His business Be More Effective is a consultancy designed to unlock human potential through the scientific blend of coaching, training and recruitment, all focused on helping businesses achieve sustainable high performance.
His second venture, Key Performance Training, is equally impressive — a regulated training provider using practical skill-building as a pathway to meaningful employment. Think forklift certifications leading to second chances, real jobs, and better futures.
What stands out about Bob is his unwavering belief that success in business is about more than strategy — it’s about understanding people. With a background in psychiatry, he brings a unique and compelling lens to leadership and hiring. From avoiding the pitfalls of ‘like bias’ in recruitment to treating people the way they want to be treated (not how you want to be treated), Bob’s insights could change how you lead your team forever.
Building A Gym Business Where Everyone Finally Feels At Home
Today on ScaleUp Radio, I’m chatting with Louise Williams, co-owner of Solace Gym in Cheltenham and the warm personality behind the Pink Pear Bear blog.
Louise shares her inspiring journey from feeling frustrated by the unrealistic “insta-perfect” images of motherhood to embracing her own ADHD diagnosis and turning her desire to help others into a thriving community-centered gym. She believed wholeheartedly in creating a place where everyone, from teenagers to seniors, could comfortably work out and feel accepted.
Solace Gym’s motto is simple: “Be Yourself.” Whether you’re an avid gym-goer or stepping onto the mat for the very first time, you’ll discover a judgment-free environment that’s not about the most fashionable gear or perfect poses. Instead, it’s about showing up, moving your body, and finding mental clarity through exercise.
Through the highs and lows of launching a new venture, Louise highlights the power of patience, solid teamwork, and a healthy dose of creativity. And of course, she reveals how she balances running a gym without contracts, blogging about ADHD, and caring for her family all at the same time.
Growing People, Growing Business, Celebrating 100 Episodes Of ScaleUp Wisdom With Granger Forson
Hey, I’m Granger Forson! In this special episode, we’re looking inward on my own business journey, from the days of engineering beer taps to embracing the power of continuous improvement.
I’ll be sharing the highs and lows of ditching the corporate path in favour of scaling up my own adventure. You’ll hear my learning from 100 recoding’s of ScaleUp Radio podcast and growing my own business, and how nurturing a culture of experimentation built a strong foundation for BizSmart Gloucestershire.
Listen in as I reflect on countless interviews with fellow entrepreneurs, each story helping me refine my approach to growth, strategy, and joyful leadership. My experience in Lean and 2 Second Lean shaped a coaching style that focuses on people-first development, from identifying strengths to leading with clarity.
Throughout this conversation, I’ll reveal the five key pillars that every business owner can use to strengthen their own enterprise, covering everything from repeatable processes to forging the right mindset in your team. If you’ve ever wondered how to turn your passion into a sustainable future, this is an episode you won’t want to miss.
Grow A Mighty Business Rooted In Purpose And Impact
In today’s episode, we shine a spotlight on the entrepreneurial journey of the remarkable Catherine Frankpitt, founder and Managing Director of Strike Communications.
Catherine has built a “small but mighty” PR agency dedicated to “comms for good.” What does that mean? It’s her creative way of describing how she elevates charities and not-for-profits by telling their stories authentically and powerfully, ensuring that important causes reach the right audiences.
From navigating the pandemic just weeks after launching, to bringing together a team that mirrors her passion for positive social impact, Catherine’s journey is a testament to strategic thinking and perseverance. She explains how being lean allows her agency to remain agile while delivering results that truly matter, especially in the charitable sector.
We also touch on the art of leadership in a growing team. Catherine candidly shares her lessons learned in people management and how striking the right balance between flexibility and accountability is crucial for success.
Kindness as The Default In Cybersecurity with Steve Mason Nova of Blue Technologies
On this episode, I talk with Steve Mason, the visionary behind Nova Blue Technologies, a remote-first cybersecurity company that grew from a solo startup during the lockdown to a 14-strong international team.
Steve shares how a “kindness is the default” ethos permeates Nova Blue’s culture, creating an atmosphere of trust, flexibility, and empowerment. Fueled by his GCHQ and defense industry background, Steve’s focus on proactively configuring systems – rather than just alerting – sets Nova Blue’s managed service apart.
Their hiring principle of “attitude, aptitude, and appetite” has seen Nova Blue attract dynamic, passionate individuals who fit perfectly into the “Nova Legion.” With 70% of leads coming from channel partners, Steve reveals how they are diversifying lead generation and why they are committed to organic growth before eyeing a potential exit.
Having a Strong ‘Why’ To Ignore Global Impact - with Ukponu Ayogu
In this inspiring episode, I talk with the remarkable trailblazer, Ukponu Ayogu, who is dedicated to uplifting immigrant women and mothers through coaching, mentorship, and technology solutions.
We discuss her journey of starting a business born out of personal necessity – transforming her own struggle to find fulfilling work in a new country into a powerful resource for others. You’ll hear how her focus on helping women understand their ‘why’ and monetise their passions has fuelled incredible success stories.
From creating streamlined tech stacks that automate processes for work-life balance, to launching the Rising Phoenix Network, Ukponu is on a mission to bring robust support to thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs. She shows us the importance of proving a business model before seeking outside funding, and how email marketing can truly change the game.
If you’re ready to learn from someone who has mentored hundreds of women already, this is the conversation for you. Tune in and discover how to realign your motivation, build a supportive community, and set the foundation for a thriving business future!
From Bedroom Startup to £9M Travel Empire - How Holiday Architects Rebuilt Built a Thriving Travel Brand post COVID
On today’s episode, I’m speaking with Andrew Hunt, the founder and CEO of Holiday Architects, a travel company that has gone from a bedroom startup to a £9 million turnover business, specializing in long-haul, tailor-made holidays. But this is not just a story of success—it’s a story of resilience, reinvention, and smart scaling.
Andrew shares how he built a business where deep customer relationships, an experienced team, and a strategic approach to marketing became the foundation of growth. He takes us through the challenges of scaling, surviving the COVID-19 crisis, and the decision to merge with another company—a move that ultimately made Holiday Architects stronger than ever.
We’ll also dive into Andrew’s approach to recruitment, financial management, and building a team that thrives in a remote-first world. He explains why he values trust and delegation and how he empowers his employees to take ownership of decisions.
Brewing with Purpose: The Inspiring Story of Cotswold Lakes Brewery with of Nick Hunt
On this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I chat with Nick Hunt, the Chief Beer Officer and co-founder of Cotswold Lakes Brewery, a microbrewery redefining what it means to run a purpose-driven business.
Nick takes us through the journey of founding Cotswold Lakes Brewery in 2021 with a clear mission: creating “Beer with Purpose.” He shares how the business has grown from homebrewing experiments to an award-winning brewery that integrates sustainability, community, and quality into every pint.
You’ll hear how Cotswold Lakes Brewery uses surplus bread to craft their beers, harvests rainwater to reduce their environmental footprint, and hosts taproom events to engage with the local community. Their unique approach ensures that both purpose and profit thrive in harmony.
Nick also reflects on the challenges of growing a seasonal business, the lessons learned from early missteps, and the importance of testing, pivoting, and embracing curiosity to achieve sustainable growth.
From Startup to £8M in 3 Years: The Secret Sauce of Media Planning and Scaling with Adam Hopkinson
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, I speak with Adam Hopkinson, founder of PASHN Media Agency.
PASHN Media, founded in 2022, is a dynamic media planning and buying agency that connects brands with their ideal customers. Adam and his team specialize in the fashion, entertainment, and leisure sectors, catering to clients with advertising budgets of £1-1.5M per year. Within three years, Adam has grown PASHN to an impressive £8M in revenue with a team of 12 – all while maintaining profitability and a clear focus on innovation and client impact.
Adam shares how he built PASHN “cold,” relying on industry relationships, creative marketing, and a strong emphasis on empowering his team. From finding versatile “open water swimmers” to shaping roles as the business grows, Adam emphasizes a culture of adaptability and collaboration, ensuring the team is aligned and motivated to excel.
We also discuss the importance of financial discipline in scaling a business, with Adam highlighting the value of early financial planning and clear communication with clients. He offers invaluable insights into the challenges of startup life, including navigating difficult client relationships and maintaining a steady cash flow.
From Burnout to Breakthrough: Robin Waite's Fearless Business Journey
This episode of ScaleUp Radio features the inspiring journey of Robin Waite, founder of Fearless Business, a coaching practice helping service-based businesses thrive.
Robin’s story begins with running a successful web design and marketing agency for over a decade. Despite growing to 180 clients and generating nearly £250,000 in revenue, Robin faced burnout and made the courageous decision to close the business. What followed was a transformative shift into coaching, where Robin now empowers entrepreneurs to repackage their services, escape the time-for-money trap, and double their revenue while working with fewer clients.
In this episode, Robin shares the importance of strategic partnerships, focusing on marketing assets with long-term impact, and prioritizing health and meaningful work. His insights on pricing strategies—such as raising rates dramatically to attract better clients—are eye-opening and actionable for any business leader.
We also explore how Robin’s recent health challenges have shaped his approach to work and life, emphasizing joy, travel, and connections over the grind. With practical tips on building influential relationships and creating sustainable marketing strategies, Robin’s story is a treasure trove of wisdom for anyone on a ScaleUp journey.
From Pop-Ups to Multi-City Restaurants: Scaling Restaurants with Passion and Precision with Dorian Kirk
In this episode, I’m joined by Dorian Kirk, founder of Art Hospitality, whose restaurant group journey has transformed from humble pop-up beginnings to a powerhouse of chef-led concepts across multiple cities. Dorian’s experience in the industry—starting at the age of 14 as a dishwasher—has nurtured a deep-rooted passion for culinary innovation and authentic leadership.
Dorian shares how he and his brother began Art Hospitality with just £500 and a single concept, expanding into a multi-brand group with six thriving restaurants. He emphasizes the importance of empowering talented chefs by offering ownership stakes, creating what he calls “Chef-preneurs.” This innovative approach has become the heartbeat of Art Hospitality, blending creativity with entrepreneurship to drive each new concept's unique flair.
One of the highlights of Dorian's journey is his ability to adapt under pressure. Faced with the pandemic’s challenges, Dorian quickly pivoted, investing in outdoor spaces and launching fresh concepts to not only survive but thrive. His dedication to his team and his relentless pursuit of excellence have helped Art Hospitality come out stronger, with plans for significant growth in the coming years, including expanding their Maneki Ramen brand and new ventures into pub and fine dining sectors.
Automation & AI: The Future of Business with Data³
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Helen Tanner, the founder of Data3, a data AI consultancy that’s been transforming businesses for over seven years. DataCUBE helps organisations untangle their data and unlock powerful insights, paving the way for leaner, more efficient operations.
Helen shares how DataCUBE pivoted from a traditional setup to an ultra-lean model by eliminating all non-essential roles like administration and marketing. Now, DataCUBE is run exclusively by technical experts and powered by cutting-edge automation tools. This shift allowed the company to focus on what they do best—delivering bespoke data solutions that help businesses scale without the typical overhead.
We also explore how DataCUBE’s success is built on being tech-agnostic, tailoring solutions to meet each client’s unique needs. Helen discusses their effective marketing strategies, from C-suite events to SEO, and why they ditched cold outreach entirely.
Throughout the episode, Helen reflects on her personal growth as a leader, the lessons she’s learned from scaling, and her vision for the future of AI-powered businesses. It’s a candid, inspiring conversation that will leave you rethinking how to leverage technology in your own business!
Payment Pioneers: How Roman Loban is Revolutionizing Micro-Business Payments
Today, we dive into the inspiring entrepreneurial saga of Roman Loban, the dynamic founder behind two innovative fintech companies, Xiva and FMPay. Both businesses aim to reshape how micro-businesses handle their financial transactions, with a special focus on inclusivity and local community support in Cheltenham.
In this episode, Roman shares how he bootstrapped his way to fintech innovation, starting with FMPay and later introducing Xiva, each complementing the other’s services. Roman’s approach to building a local yet expansive company—currently boasting about 30 staff members, with a core team in Cheltenham—illustrates his commitment to community and accessible business practices.
We’ll explore the challenges he faced in recruitment, culture cultivation, and lead generation, and how these experiences shaped his business philosophy.
Pouring a Greener Future: When in Rome Wine’s Mission for Sustainability
In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Rob Malin, CEO of When in Rome Wine, a company that’s shaking up the wine industry in the most eco-friendly way possible.
Rob takes us through the remarkable journey of When in Rome, a business born out of a passion for both great Italian wine and environmental sustainability. Starting from humble beginnings at a Bath farmers market, When in Rome has grown into a significant player, now selling its innovative, low-carbon footprint wines across major UK supermarkets and even on British Airways flights.
The episode dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of growing a business committed to a clear mission: to decarbonize the wine industry by moving away from single-use glass bottles. Rob shares how they’ve embraced alternative packaging like cans, bag-in-box, and paper bottles to reduce their carbon footprint. He also opens up about the creative strategies they’ve employed to change consumer perceptions and build brand awareness on a limited budget.
But it's not just about the wine. Rob passionately discusses the importance of company culture and how When in Rome's dedication to sustainability has been the driving force behind attracting the right talent and keeping the team motivated. With a small but mighty team of six, they’ve managed to scale the business while staying true to their core values.
Leading by Example: How SupaFoot Is Walking the Talk on Values and Leadership
In this exciting episode of ScaleUp Radio, we sit down with Emma Price, the dynamic founder of SupaFoot, a flourishing podiatry practice that’s taken a giant leap from a solo operation to a 9-person clinic over the past decade.
Emma shares the inspiring story of how she was motivated by her mother’s career shift to start her own business, driven by a passion for helping people. SupaFoot has grown organically through an unwavering commitment to excellence and the power of personal referrals. Emma’s journey is a testament to the impact of living your business values, and her leadership style is all about going first – embracing vulnerability, promoting continuous improvement, and creating a culture where feedback and growth are the norms.
As SupaFoot prepares to expand into a new 7-room clinic, Emma discusses her strategic vision for the future. With a keen eye on maintaining the family-like atmosphere that sets SupaFoot apart, Emma is planning for full capacity within five years, with potential franchise options on the horizon.
Join us as we dive deep into Emma’s approach to recruitment, team development, and marketing in the niche field of podiatry. Whether you’re leading a business or looking to start one, Emma’s insights into overcoming challenges, staying true to your values, and leading by example will leave you inspired.
Transforming Business & Life from Aphra to Metamorphose: Grace Carter on Building Brands & Empowering Women
In this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive deep into the inspiring journey of Grace Carter, a dynamic entrepreneur who has seamlessly blended her passion for branding with a mission to empower women through her newly established Metamorphose Group. Grace started her entrepreneurial journey seven years ago with Aphra, a branding agency that has now become part of her larger vision, Metamorphose Group.
Grace’s story is one of resilience, creativity, and commitment to social impact. As the managing director of Metamorphose Group, she has built a unique business structure that encompasses 18 brands, each aligned with her core values of mental health, social equity, and entrepreneurship. Through her work, Grace is not only transforming the landscape of branding but also creating platforms that support women in various aspects of life and business.
One of the most compelling aspects of Grace’s journey is her candid discussion about the challenges of balancing motherhood with running a business. Her honesty about the sacrifices and mental load involved provides a refreshing perspective on what it means to be a female entrepreneur today.
Unlocking Cost Savings: Alexander Golev’s Path to Software Licensing Success
OIn this episode of ScaleUp Radio, we dive into the inspiring journey of Alexander Golev, founder of SAMexpert. Alexander shares his incredible story of starting and scaling his business, providing valuable insights into the world of software asset management and Microsoft licensing.
Alexander began SAMexpert in 2003, and after a few years, he reestablished it in the UK, focusing on cost avoidance and consultancy in the complex field of Microsoft licensing. His journey emphasises the importance of hiring passionate employees who elevate the business and the significance of having a clear long-term vision from the start.
At SAMexpert, the team helps large enterprises and service providers navigate the labyrinth of Microsoft licensing, ensuring fair pricing and significant cost savings. Alexander’s approach of giving freely without expectation has not only built strong connections but also opened up new opportunities for the business.
With a multicultural team and a culture based on mutual trust and direct communication, SAMexpert stands out in the industry. Alexander shares his vision for the future, aiming for a £20M turnover, 100 employees, and international offices within the next five years, with a shift towards cloud cost management.
From Hobby to Global Success: The TruffleHunter Journey Navigating Storms
In this episode, I had the pleasure of talking with Nigel Whitehouse, the visionary behind TruffleHunter UK.
Nigel started TruffleHunter as a hobby in Italy back in 2006, which evolved into a thriving business by 2010. Today, it stands as the UK's only company manufacturing a wide range of truffle products, from oils to butters, and fresh truffles. TruffleHunter operates across multiple channels, including online sales, retail, food service, and exports, with a strong brand presence in English-speaking markets.
Despite achieving a decade of consistent growth, TruffleHunter faced significant challenges when COVID-19 disrupted operations. Online sales surged, but wholesale plummeted, leading to a need for restructuring. Nigel shares insights into how he managed to streamline operations, right size the company, and retain a loyal core team.
One of the key highlights of TruffleHunter’s journey is their expansion into the US market. With a new distribution deal, Nigel is optimistic about significant growth opportunities ahead. He also discusses the complexities of Brexit, raw material inflation, and the future plans for enhancing production efficiencies.
Sustaining Growth and Investing in Long-Term Client Relationships with Scott Gulliver
Today, we’re diving into the entrepreneurial journey of Scott Gulliver, the visionary founder of Fluff Software.
Scott founded Fluff Software in 2020 with a clear mission: to bring the best practices from his extensive agency experience into his own company. What started as a two-person operation has rapidly grown into a thriving business with a specialised focus on visitor attractions. This episode explores how Scott’s bold decisions and strategic thinking have propelled Fluff Software to success.
One of the standout moments in Scott’s journey was hiring his brother-in-law with no coding experience and transforming him into a skilled developer. This move, emblematic of Scott's commitment to investing in people, has paid off tremendously. We’ll hear about the challenges and triumphs of scaling from 2 to 7 employees in just one year, and how Scott managed to maintain quality and client satisfaction during this rapid growth.
Click here to view our older podcasts.