UKBF Stories: Recent Episodes
UK Business Forums
Join me, UK Business Forums founder Richard Osborne, as I invite Entrepreneurs to share their journey that took them on the path to running their own business, the high's and the low's. Relatable small business owners you'd pass every day in the street; finding out about the challenges they overcame and what is their "Why?" that keeps them going.
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Are you ready to unravel the powerful connection between anxiety, trauma, and entrepreneurship?
In this episode, we dive deep into the fascinating world of personal growth and business success, all while exploring the profound impact of childhood experiences on our adult lives. Join us as we uncover the hidden truths behind anxiety as a sympathetic response and learn practical strategies to help your business thrive by discovering the incredible journey of a remarkable individual who turned divorce into her superpower, breaking free from an abusive marriage and overcoming complex PTSD, depression, and anxiety. Her story will inspire you to embrace healing and transformation in your own life. But that's not all! We also explore the profound effects of childhood patterns on our adult relationships, unveiling how toxic friendships and perfectionism can stem from a lack of self-worth.
Prepare to be enlightened as we dive into the world of trauma work, understanding behaviors, and cultivating gratitude for our past experiences.
In this episode we have thought-provoking discussions about the correlation between stress, burnout, and success in our entrepreneurial journeys. Get ready to challenge your beliefs as we unravel the fascinating link between ambition, self-value, and productivity.
This episode also sheds light on the struggles faced by entrepreneurs, from financial security to societal pressures. It's time to redefine what success truly means to you!
As the episode concludes, we explore the undeniable impact of emotions on our bodies and the importance of releasing suppressed energy. Discover the power of time-in, emotional expression, and self-reflection to embark on a journey of healing and self-discovery. So, what are you waiting for? Take the leap and press play on this captivating, transformative episode of Drive. It's not just a podcast—it's an opportunity to find meaning, unlock your potential, and embark on an incredible journey of personal and professional growth.
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Buckle up for a heart-pounding expedition into the dynamic realm of entrepreneurship! In this electrifying podcast episode, we're about to drop you into a world of high-octane insights and jaw-dropping revelations. Picture yourself snugly nestled with us as we host the extraordinary Ash Phillips, a university dropout turned triumphant entrepreneur, whose wisdom is sure to set your spirits ablaze.
Get ready for an awe-inspiring journey, as Ash unveils his eye-opening experience of discovering he has ADHD and how it forms the cornerstone of his entrepreneurial voyage. His story isn't a fairy tale; it's a testament to unwavering determination, resilience, and innate brilliance.
Joining us on this thrilling expedition, our invigorating host, Richard, shares a personal anecdote about his daughter's bold decision to leave college, adding a real-time perspective to our candid discussion.
Hold onto your seats as Ash guides us through the exhilarating, gravity-defying loop of risks that come with stepping out of your comfort zone without a blueprint. You'll discover the unvarnished reality behind the glossy facade of instant success often spotlighted in the business world.
Ash pulls back the curtain on the entrepreneurial world, showing that it extends far beyond glamorous titles and Instagram feeds. He reveals how starting a business part-time while juggling a full-time agency job can lay a solid foundation for future ventures.
Taking the plunge into the abyss of entrepreneurship may seem daunting, but this episode proves it's an incredible journey of self-discovery and growth. Ash's triumphant journey is a testament to courage and optimism, even when the safety nets are pulled away.
But hold on tight because this adrenaline-fueled ride is far from over! Join us as Ash uncovers his path filled with unexpected twists, including mergers, partnerships, and the remarkable creation of his networking community, Yena.
Challenge your own definitions of success! Relate to Ash's thought-provoking insights on dismissing unrealistic expectations in favor of practicality, all while promoting self-worth and personal value.
Every second of this episode is packed with potent insights, fiery advice, and personal stories that will leave you spellbound. From Richard's reflective wisdom to Ash's passionate encouragement to break through perceived barriers, this is a must-listen for every aspiring entrepreneur and dream-chaser out there.
So, what are you waiting for? Hit that play button NOW! Join us on this exhilarating journey through candid conversations, and let's unveil the riveting lives of college dropouts. Don't forget to hit that follow button for a front-row seat to our upcoming episodes. Get ready to ignite your inner entrepreneur and be inspired. Let's rock and roll!
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Welcome to the latest explosive episode of Drive The Business podcast! Join us as we dive into the extraordinary journey of Darren, a trailblazer who defies conventions and embodies perseverance, passion, and triumph.
From conquering the fitness industry to navigating unforeseen detours into cardiac rehab, Darren's path has been far from ordinary. Despite a lack of formal education, he boldly opened fitness centers, faced challenges head-on, and carved out his own unique success story.
But life had more in store for Darren. A diagnosis of chronic fatigue syndrome and overtraining brought him to a standstill. However, he rose like a phoenix from the ashes, pivoting into the real estate sector and proving that resilience always triumphs over adversity.
Darren's journey also includes thriving salons and expertly managing estate agency branches, showcasing his indomitable spirit. Yet, he learned harsh lessons in business partnerships and the importance of clear agreements.
On a deeply personal note, Darren's family faced the challenge of his son Alfie's severe epileptic seizures, reaffirming his reputation as a beacon of resilience.
This episode is a treasure trove of lessons on recruitment, partnerships, and client relationships. Darren's story will inspire you to transform obstacles into opportunities and commit to professional growth.
Buckle up for this adrenaline-filled episode, let Darren's adventure empower your ambitions, and fuel your business's success.
Stay tuned for this electrifying journey, and don't forget to follow and support Drive The Business podcast for more inspiring stories. Together, let's ignite the flames of possibility!
More information about Darren's staffing and recruiting agency can be found at: https://www.s-sa.co.uk/
And, you can connect with Darren on socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staffordsharp/
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit: www.ukbf.co.uk
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Hey there, podcast lovers! Richard Osborne here with some exciting news. In my latest episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Phil Jones, the CEO of Brother UK, to dive into his remarkable journey and the secrets behind creating a world-class organisation that goes beyond finances.
Phil's story is truly inspiring. Coming from humble beginnings, Phil shares his passion for culture and how it played a pivotal role in Brother UK's success. We delve into his background, from growing up in a council house to discovering his interest in business during college. Phil's path wasn't typical, but his determination led him to become the incredible leader he is today.
During our conversation, Phil reveals the challenges he faced in the pub trade and a life-threatening moment when the pub was set on fire. But he didn't let those setbacks define him. Phil walked into a recruitment agency, landed a job as a trainee salesperson, and eventually found his way to Brother UK in 1994.
What amazed me about Phil was his commitment to creating a positive culture within the organisation. We discuss the importance of remembering personal details, showing genuine care, and valuing the growth of every individual. Phil's dedication to building a caring, compassionate environment is truly remarkable.
But that's not all. Phil takes us on a journey through his latest endeavor as a mental health first aider. In a post-COVID world, he recognised the need for more openness and support when it comes to mental health. He shares how this journey has changed his perspective and shaped his vision for creating an inclusive and understanding workplace.
And there's even more to discover! From the strategic goal of inclusion and understanding others to the time Phil proposed a culture shift by giving up parking spaces reserved for top executives, this episode is filled with eye-opening moments and valuable insights.
So, if you're ready to be inspired by Phil's incredible journey, gain actionable tips on building a positive corporate culture, and learn the art of selling with impact, then you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in now and join me as I explore the life and wisdom of Phil Jones, the visionary CEO behind Brother UK.
Make sure to follow our podcast app to stay up to date on future episodes, and remember, your engagement and feedback are essential in helping us reach more people with inspiring stories like Phil's. Together, let's create a community of growth and success. Happy listening, everyone!
Phil is active on X and you can follow him at https://twitter.com/PhilJones40
Richard is also active on X and can be followed at https://twitter.com/RichardOsborne
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit: https://www.ukbf.co.uk
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Welcome to the latest episode of Drive the Business Podcast! In today's episode, we feature Rajeeb Day, a pioneering entrepreneur who embarked on his startup journey early on, funded by a £5,000 grant.
Rajeeb's story is nothing short of inspiring. Spurning traditional career paths, he elected to champion small businesses, starting with student advocacy in the UK's educational system at 17. His bold steps led him to rapidly climb the entrepreneurial ladder, and at Oxford, he led the Enterprise Society and initiated various ventures.
Recognising the limitations of entrepreneurship exposure in some educational institutions, Rajeeb built a platform connecting startups to graduates, bridging the distance between corporates and startups. Rajeeb’s desire to operate independently, fostered by early success and familial support, led him down this unique path. He viewed entrepreneurship as an exhilarating challenge and a means to impact, refusing to settle for a conventional corporate job.
Rajeeb candidly shares his journey's many phases, from initiating the entrepreneurial trek to successfully managing high living costs and the intimidating nature of starting a business. He underscores the importance of investor and family support in this feat. However, it’s not all uphill battle! Rajeeb points out opportunities for secondary ventures and small businesses, sparked by online resources and tools.
Resolutely believing in embracing uncertainty, Rajeeb encourages entrepreneurs to surpass mental blockades and take the plunge into the entrepreneurial world. This episode takes us through his exceptional experiences which include venture discussions at Ten Downing Street and interacting with industry behemoths.
Perfect for entrepreneurs, startup enthusiasts, or the simply curious, Rajeeb's journey from a grant recipient to a successful entrepreneur is sure to leave you captivated and thirsty for more. Hit that follow button to stay updated on all our episodes. Your support helps us deliver the best content!
Stay tuned, get inspired, and join us to drive the business world together!
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Buckle up, listeners! Welcome to a gripping episode of UKBF DRIVE where we explore the astounding life of Christina Robinson, a personal branding maven turned successful entrepreneur. Host, Richard, unravels Christina's narrative marked by resilience, determination, and remarkable success, set amidst a chaotic childhood backdrop.
This episode pays testament to Christina's extraordinary journey from her initial struggles as a young woman. With steel-like determination, she navigated these obstacles transforming herself into a flourishing business magnate.
As her story unwraps, you experience her awe-inspiring metamorphosis into a powerhouse figure dedicated to inspiring others to tap into their full potential. Richard and Christina explore the myriad facets of her life; her independence at the tender age of sixteen, her turbulent upbringing, and a pivotal upheaval that led her to depart from her family.
A crucial slice of Christina's life that sets a striking landmark in her story is the moment she decides to reclaim her destiny by purchasing the business she worked for. This bold alteration signalled her step from simply holding a job to evolving into a bona fide entrepreneur.
Albeit, her journey was fraught with self-doubt and a battle with self-worth. Yet, with relentless hard work, introspection, and unwavering commitment to personal development, Christina triumphed to emerge as a leader willing to march into unchartered territories, achieving success on her own terms. She now shares the stage with the likes of Steven Bartlett, Nick James and Marine Forleo as an industry expert and an inspirational voice in the world of business.
In this compelling episode, the listeners will find myriad nuggets of wisdom; an affirmation that change is plausible at any stage, creating a riveting narrative of overcoming mental health issues and the pursuit of truth-bearing passion.
So, delay no more. Tune into DIRVE and let Christina's inspiring narrative fuel your journey towards personal and professional evolution. Press that follow button to stay updated with upcoming episodes as we continue to unfold Christina's mesmerizing journey. Prepare to be inspired to build a life you truly deserve.
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Get ready for an inspiring episode of the Drive podcast, featuring Precious, a woman who revolutionised the male-dominated UK construction industry. Beginning in Zimbabwe, Precious navigated numerous challenges to establish her own business in the UK. Her story involves resilience, the importance of mentorship and intentional networking, and the power of diversity in team building. Hosted by Richard, this episode offers invaluable insight into entrepreneurship, leadership, and the power of pursuing one's passion even in the face of adversity. Tune in to this extraordinary journey of triumphs, challenges, resilience, and immense inspiration.
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Attention, listeners! Have you ever felt consumed by work, but deep down, you know there has to be more to life? Well, in our latest episode of Drive, I had the privilege of sitting down with Parm Bhangal, a true visionary and a master of work-life balance. From overcoming criticism to expanding his businesses, Parm's journey is filled with invaluable lessons and inspiring moments.
Parm's story begins with unwavering dedication, shrugging off negativity from all corners. But it wasn't until he found himself in the hospital, that the need to balance work and life truly struck him. With the support of his strong network and a passion for seizing opportunities, Parm achieved his first income in just four months. His confidence never wavered, regardless of others' opinions.
In our conversation, Parm reveals the secret to managing confidence – recognising both his strengths and limitations. He emphasises the importance of mentorship and having a network of business connections to learn from. And let me tell you, Parm truly values the power of learning. He engages with coaches, mentors, and fellow professionals to gather knowledge and insights.
But here's the thing: Parm understands that learning isn't about blindly mimicking others' choices. It's about analysing and adapting relevant information to fit your own unique strategy. That's why he cherry-picks advice that aligns with his goals, strategises meticulously, and stays focused on his own lane.
And as we delve deeper into Parm's journey, we witness a profound transformation. Parm's health scare shook him to the core, making him realise that burning the candle at both ends is simply unsustainable. He found solace and wisdom in his wife who reminded him of the importance of family and the value of being present.
Throughout this episode, we explore Parm's commitment to balancing work and family. His wife's as his sounding board, challenges and questions his ideas, keeping him grounded and reminding him to prioritise what truly matters. Parm rearranged his commitments, managed his schedule better, and learned to celebrate important family moments without neglecting his long-term business goals.
In a world where business owners often lose connection with loved ones, Parm's story is a powerful reminder of the significance of work-life balance. His why is his family, and his purpose at work is to nurture and mentor his team. Parm's desire to see others succeed and grow as leaders sets him apart as a true visionary.
So, dear listeners, if you're ready to be inspired and gain invaluable insights from Parm Bhangal's journey, tune in to this remarkable episode of Drive. Prepare to be motivated, challenged, and enlightened as Parm shares his top three pieces of advice: work hard, listen to the right people, and have a game plan with a clear destination in mind.
Thank you for joining us on this journey. Press that follow button to stay updated with Drive, your destination for success stories, strategies, and a roadmap to a fulfilling work-life balance. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your life. Listen now!
You can read more about Parm and his businesses here.
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Don't miss the latest episode of our podcast, where we bring you straight into the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship with Nigerian-born leader, Dr. Daniel Moses! Alongside our host Richard Osborne, Dr. Moses unpacks his remarkable journey - full of twists, turns, ups, and downs.
Tune in as he reveals his climb from humble beginnings to a towering success in the UK property sector. Want a glimpse into the high-powered realm of diverse property investments? Dr. Moses provides the inside scoop, debunking myths, and uncovering unseen insights.
In one poignant moment, Dr. Moses emotionally shares how he redefined rock bottom and rebuilt his life from scratch - a truly transformative journey that you won't want to miss. Later in the episode, he drops a bombshell about a surprising hardship that put his determination to the ultimate test.
This episode goes beyond just financial strategies - it's a call to action for self-reliance and financial independence. So whether you're longing for a dose of motivation or a new lease on financial freedom, this episode is your ticket. Get ready to hit play and redefine what's possible in your life!
More information about Dr Daniel's property education company can be found at:
https://www.propertywe.co.uk/
And, you can connect with Dr Daniel on socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-machikiche-00967160https://www.linkedin.com/in/drdanielmoses/
Watch more episodes of GROW on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrsc0D_l73RqyHw2goNkfRjMa
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Gaby Mendes graduated with a degree in education back in 2016, but after moving into teaching, she quickly realised there was a gap that needed to be bridged between leaving full-time education and entering the adult world of work.
She originally planned to launch with in-person events, but the pandemic delivered an unexpectedly good outcome in the form of the Talk Twenties Podcast. Discussing the highs and lows of life in your twenties, the podcast now has over 25,000 listeners and was a finalist in the British Podcast Awards 2021.
Talk Twenties is all about helping young people in their twenties to build confidence and remind them that no one has it all figured out. The education system doesn’t prepare people for much of adult life, but Talk Twenties is here to help twenty-somethings navigate everything from sorting out their finances, starting a new career, buying a house or making new friends.
In today’s episode, we hear from 27-year-old entrepreneur Gaby on how she built an award-winning podcast, online learning platform and thriving community that helps thousands of young people level up in their twenties.
You can find out more about Talk Twenties on their website:
https://www.talktwenties.com/
Or connect with Gaby on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gabymendes
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
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Founder of Rich Design UK, David Machikiche has used his creative curiosity for manufacturing alongside his experience in sales and business development to forge a new path to entrepreneurship. In this week’s episode of DRIVE, David describes how his highly-competitive education, ability to take risks and travelling the world for his career led to the rediscovery of his creative nature – and ultimately, growing his own e-commerce business from the ground up.
Growing up in Zimbabwe and subsequently moving to the UK at the age of 21, David built a successful career across many organisations, from recruitment to finance and sustainability. Drawing on his expertise in negotiation, sales, deal structuring, project management and leadership to name a few, he felt it was time to build his own business model.
Led by a deep fascination for the manufacturing process right through to seeing a product in the customer’s hands, David stepped out of the limiting world of employment and into the entrepreneurial hot seat. With the ability to work towards his own goals, David uncovered his long suppressed flair for creative design and innovation. It was this, paired with his experience in sales and business development that fed the inspiring formula to launch Rich Design UK.
Authentically candid about the realities of owning a developing business, David talks us through his relentless drive to never give up. Fuelled by his childhood love for breaking things apart and making them stronger, he explains what success means to him. Tune in to find out more.
More information about Rich Design UK can be found at:
@richdesignuk
And, you can connect with David on socials:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-machikiche-00967160/
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Harry Cramer began his career in the world of motorsport, before spotting a gap in the occupational health market and taking a leap of faith to build something new for the world of workplace wellbeing.
He now works with schools and businesses around the UK offering best-in-class health and wellbeing services, in his roles as CEO of Smart Clinic and Managing Director of Split Dimension.
Growing up, Harry saw his single mum working several jobs to give him the best opportunities in life. He quickly learned that working hard was a good life choice, and began mopping floors and stacking shelves as a youngster before pursuing a passion for motorsport alongside studying for a degree in psychology.
This was a passion he returned to after selling his karting business, when he decided to pursue a career in mental health. With no prior experience aside from his degree, Harry took on a job for an insurance company, working in occupational health.
From there, he spent as much time as he could learning about the sector, and soon discovered there wasn’t anything out there that was fit for purpose or was providing a solution to the problems he was seeing.
At 24, Harry started Smart Clinic and spent several years building his own system that was focused on providing an optimal service for clients. It was a big risk and the first few years were difficult – but it all paid off.
In today’s episode, we hear from Harry on why he made the move to focus on workplace wellbeing and how he’s building a wellbeing revolution for less than the price of a coffee.
Discover how he helps businesses all over the UK to build happier, healthier and ultimately, more productive and efficient workforces, and hear more about his philosophy that founders don’t need to know everything.
You can find out more about Smart Clinic and Split Dimension via their websites:
https://smartclinic.com/
https://www.splitdimension.co.uk/
Or connect with him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harry-cramer-ba5b3833/
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Most small business owners are familiar with Theo Paphitis, perhaps best known for his stint as an investor on Dragons’ Den. The owner and chairman of high street brands Ryman, Robert Dyas and Boux Avenue has been championing small businesses through Small Business Sunday since 2010, with over 3,500 members across the network.
But what many don’t know is that Theo left school at the age of 16 with no qualifications after struggling with dyslexia, and began his career as a filing clerk in a Lloyds of London brokerage. He quickly discovered his passion for retail, setting up his first company aged 23 and the rest, as they say, is history.
In 2015, he launched the Theo Paphitis Retail Group, comprising over 300 stores and 4,000 employees serving millions of customers every year. Alongside his retail empire, Theo followed his passion for sport, standing as chairman of Millwall FC for eight years as well as Director of the Football League. He later founded the Theo Paphitis Charitable Trust which assists smaller charities which have difficulty obtaining funds, such as those helping children or providing palliative care.
Now, Theo is often seen on current affairs and news shows such as BBC Question Time, commenting on retail, politics, the economy and anything in between. He also shares his experiences as a dyslexic entrepreneur, helping to raise awareness and reduce stigma.
We’re delighted to be joined by Theo on this episode of DRIVE, where he talks about his journey from growing up in Limassol, Cyprus with dyslexia, developing ‘hacks’ to get around the challenges it presented, to growing his first business and what he learned about investing from the first season of Dragons’ Den.
You can find out more about Theo and Small Business Sunday on his website: https://www.theopaphitis.com/
Or connect with him on social media:
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheoPaphitis
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theopaphitis
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Having worked with some of the biggest brands and businesses in the world, James Burtt is an in-demand audio entrepreneur and brand strategist. Through his work as founder of the Phonic Content agency, James has launched 150+ podcasts for global clients across all major sectors - most frequently providing content strategy to celebrities, entrepreneurs, actors, coaches, mentors, athletes and brand builders.
His trademark 'Pillar Content' model has resulted in creating multiple high-six and seven figure brands, as well as growing some of the most engaged niche audience groups across platforms such as Facebook and Clubhouse.
James’s love of radio and broadcast started 16 years ago when he ventured into the world of Broadcast PR. This led to him working with some of the world's biggest household name brands – and eventually led to him becoming a radio presenter.
He has worked with the likes of BMW, Nandos, Stella Artois, PG Tips and Xbox, helping them to craft messages that connect with an audience, and he's featured as an expert on Business Insider and BBC Radio 5 Live. His work has also appeared on leading industry publications such as Virgin.com, Startups Magazine, Podnews and Radio Today.
James is an international keynote speaker who has spoken in front of thousands of delegates. Now he joins us on the DRIVE podcast to share his unique knowledge of broadcast and communications.
You can find out more about Phonic Media on their website: https://www.phonic.media/
Or connect with him on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesburtt/
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Former Big Issue vendor, John Hastings, had a vision to create a sustainable future for all. Using his knowledge of IT recycling, passion for waste management and love for helping others, John founded Recycle-It!, a social enterprise that collects used computer equipment in a planet-friendly way and provides reusable equipment back to the community.
Now an integral part of the circular economy, Recycle-It! are committed to reducing waste and providing low-cost equipment to local people in need. Their mission is to create a positive impact on the environment and the community through their work with waste.
John believes that with the right help, people can feel empowered from within and build their confidence in order to succeed. Recycle-IT! provides volunteering and work placement opportunities, as well as workshops and training courses, to help grow their social enterprise and support underserved communities.
In this week’s episode of DRIVE, John talks to us about his journey from Big Issue vendor to inspirational social enterprise founder, and why local community inclusion and support are key to his success.
You can find out more about Recycle-IT! on their website: https://recycle-it.org.uk/
Or connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-hastings-79157021/
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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Julie Creffield is a change maker, growth strategist, founder and keynote speaker with more than 25 years’ experience across a huge range of industries. Her no-nonsense approach to building, developing and scaling impactful ventures has seen her support more than 3000 clients in her recent work as an online business coach.
Growing up on a council estate as one of six children raised by a single parent didn’t stop Julie from becoming the first in her family to go to university, achieve a first-class degree and start a career as a drama practitioner, before going on to work as a trainer, facilitator and management consultant for public and voluntary sector organisations.
After a string of redundancies and becoming a single mum, in 2013 Julie turned her blog into a microbusiness, which has since been featured in media around the world. Now an award-winning international keynote speaker and author of 12 books, Julie dedicates most of her time to helping other businesses pivot and profit, finding new purpose through their work. Her mission? To help 1 million ordinary people do extraordinary things with The Year to Change system.
In this week’s DRIVE episode, Julie speaks to us about navigating change and how her own experiences of adversity and hardship have helped her activate others to fulfil their full potential.
You can find out more about Julie and her work on her website:
https://juliecreffield.com/
Or connect with Julie on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecreffield
Watch other DRIVE episodes on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
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Founder of Gradwell Communications, Peter Gradwell prides himself on his ability to design products that solve broken processes. In this week’s episode of DRIVE, he talks us through how he grew his small communications business from building websites in his student flat into a multi-million pound enterprise supporting over 20,000 UK small businesses.
His incredible work ethic was inspired by his entrepreneurial parents, who both ran their own businesses and helped Peter to look at the world and think, “how can I make this better?”. From a young age, he was taught to deconstruct systems into their component parts and restructure them to find a better outcome.
Since building and later selling Gradwell Communications, Peter has launched two new ventures in 2020 – consulting firm, Ystwyth Ventures Limited, and UK SIM-only mobile operator, IQ Mobile.
Peter’s journey is one of evolution, full of lessons learned from growing a large team, working with external investors and realising that sometimes, customers don’t always know what they need! Tune in to find out more.
More information about IQ Mobile and Ystwyth Ventures can be found at:
https://helloiq.co.uk/
https://www.ystwythv.com/
And, you can connect with Peter on socials:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/petergradwell
https://twitter.com/peterg
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Serial founder and keynote speaker Carl Reader talks to DRIVE host Richard Osborne about his journey. From leaving school at 15 to become a hairdresser and getting a job at an accountants to building a series of successful businesses:
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Dealing with undiagnosed ADHD
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Completing an MBO at 30
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How to create a business that isn’t reliant on one person
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The power of personal brand and how to build one
It’s an incredible story and there’s lots of practical tips and inspiration for those of you that are running your own business.
Today’s podcast is sponsored by online accounting software provider FreeAgent, which helps business owners bring everything together, from invoices and expenses to your Self Assessment return. Use this link to get your first month free, followed by six months at half price.
https://www.freeagent.com/try/new-tax-year/
You can connect with Carl on LinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlreader/
Watch DRIVE on our UKBF channel on YouTube:
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyUFgMZDhrse-LwUGBV5GKKBtb-0tMHMb
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community please visit:
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I have spoken to some fantastic women in business over the last year on the DRIVE podcast.
Women who are doing incredible and pioneering things in industries such as tech, property management, beauty, health & well-being and business development.
Here are some highlights and inspirational moments from these great women who have been featured on the podcast.
Geoff Smith is a man with an incredible story that's full of ups and downs. He started his career in the door security business, which allowed him to mingle with celebrities and gain a taste for the high life. However, his life took a dramatic turn when he was approached by strangers who asked him to go overseas and bring back a box of diamonds. This experience introduced him to the world of diamond importing, which he quickly realized was a lucrative business.
At first, Geoff conducted his business through legal means, but he soon needed more money to grow his operation. He sought investment from outside sources but unfortunately, a dodgy import of smashed glass led him to lose all of the invested funds. His investors were not happy and threatened his life, causing him to go into hiding.
Despite the challenges he faced, Geoff was determined to make things right. He worked hard to pay back his investors and HMRC, and he has now built a business that provides advice on importing and exporting. He uses his experiences to help others avoid the mistakes he made, and his knowledge is invaluable to those looking to enter the world of international trade.
Discover more about DRIVE here: https://drive-small-business.podbean.com For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community, please visit: www.ukbf.co.uk Follow our socials at: https://twitter.com/ukbizforums https://facebook.com/ukbizforums https://instagram.com/ukbizforums https://twitter.com/ukbizforums https://www.tiktok.com/@ukbizforums Follow Richard Osborne’s socials at: https://twitter.com/richardosborne https://instagram.com/richardmosborne
Claire Young is well known as the highly driven runner up of series four of ‘The Apprentice’ where she was dubbed a ‘Rottweiler’ by Lord Sugar for her tenacious approach in the boardroom.
Being on the show inspired Claire to set up her award-winning business, ‘School Speakers’ - the UK’s No 1 speaking agency working alongside schools, colleges, and universities across the world to provide talks to students and staff. Winner of several business awards, she also works within the media as a journalist & radio presenter in addition to advising the government on a range of projects supporting young people and women.
Hear Claire’s story right now, here on Drive where she talks about her Apprentice experience, the crucial lessons she learnt from Lord Sugar, her view on the importance of resilience in business, how her own parents’ approach to business and taking risks gave her the confidence to make it big, why she wouldn’t partner up in business again and much, much more.
More information on Claire Young can be found at: https://www.claireyoung.co.uk
Find out more about School Speakers at: https://www.schoolspeakers.co.uk
Discover more about DRIVE here: https://drive-small-business.podbean.com
Watch DRIVE on our UKBF channel on You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@ukbizforums
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community, please visit: www.ukbf.co.uk
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Join us for the second part of our talk with Gary Turner, a forward thinker in business who helped turned Xero into a global leader in cloud accounting – raising its initial £56K UK revenue and a staff of three to a rapid £150M and 600+ staff in just a few years.
Xero is now worth over $10BN, and Gary continues to serve as a non-executive director at the Xero subsidiary, Planday alongside developing his new company, Everscale where he guides and inspires businesses on high growth and leadership.
This second part takes us from the emotional talks in part 1 on how his passion for working in, and helping others in business began when he saw his own father’s small business struggle, to more on his approach to business… Such as why creating a trusting and happy working environment for his people was - and is - crucial, key advice and tips for aspiring entrepreneurs and how always looking ahead to what’s coming next in business has helped him get to where he is today.
More information on Everscale can be found at: https://newsletter.everscale.uk/about
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Gary has always had a visionary approach to business, which is why he left Microsoft to take on Xero, who at the time he was approached to come on board, had just £56k in UK revenue and three UK employees, but is now worth over $10BN.
Gary immediately recognised that Xero’s cloud account offering was the way forward. Xero is now a leader in cloud accounting across New Zealand, Australia, and the United Kingdom (3.5 million+ subscribers / 180+ countries). Today, Gary continues to serve as a non-executive director at the Xero subsidiary, Planday alongside developing his new company, Everscale where he is on a mission, to guide and inspire businesses about what he learned about high growth and leadership.
Hear the first part of his inspirational story here; how his passion for working in, and helping others in business began when he saw his own father’s small business struggle, which led to the breakdown of his parent’s marriage and the repossession of his childhood home. And how always looking ahead to what’s coming next in business has helped him get to where he is today.
More information on Everscale can be found at: https://newsletter.everscale.uk/about
Watch DRIVE on our UKBF channel on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ukbizforums
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What do you do when a credit crunch hits, your business crumbles and you have to stand by whilst your cars and home is repossessed? Well, if you’re Gary Doherty, you dust yourself off and start a new business!
Londonderry based Gary has a wealth of experience in business; building a property empire and buying an estate agency business as he continued to expand his business vision. But the 2009 property market crash led to Gary losing everything.
This traumatic time led to him moving forward with a new outlook and creating a new company, Think Network, Ireland’s fastest growing empowerment platform, aimed at helping people reach their full potential by hosting motivational, inspirational and empowering speaking events like no other..
Hear his story right now, here on Drive and be inspired at his passion for empowering people across the globe to achieve their dreams, and how he has persuaded some of the world’s leading figures in self-empowerment, wealth and business to get on board.
More information on Gary Doherty and the Think Network can be found on his various social media platforms including on Twitter and LinkedIn
If you have a story to share reach out to me on Twitter, Instagram or TikTok and tell me about your DRIVE in business.
For more information on UKBF and to join our FREE, online business community, please visit ukbf.co.uk
What do you do when you have an established, thriving business? Well, if you’re Tim Fouracre, you leave it and start another! Tim has a wealth of experience in accounting; having spent nearly 10 years (as founder) and CEO of a cloud accounting company, Clear Books Ltd. He’s also the kind of guy who likes to get things done; from starting his own career in accountancy after getting an accounting bill and ascertaining he could do the job himself, to dealing with his frustration at not being supported by his fellow shareholders in his desire to expand into banking! Tim could see a clear solution to businesses spending too much time and effort on accounting and banking systems by combining the two but there was no avenue to do this in his current business…
This lightbulb moment about combining banking and accounting led to him leaving Clear Books to start Countingup and, four years in, business is booming.
But his journey to success wasn’t as simple as current figures suggest. Tim met a lot of resistance along the way, including from his business partners, but his determination to succeed drove him on, and has revolutionised the way people run their small business.
More information on CountingUp can be found at www.countingup.com
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What do you do when your business partner, who is also your best friend, is hit with a life changing illness?
Jo Stone is the co-founder of Puddle Ducks, a leading franchise business that delivers baby and child swimming classes across the UK. She founded the business with Tracy Townend who she met at pre-natal classes where they became good friends and the rest, they say, is history.
It wasn’t plain sailing though, hit with several challenges including a real David & Goliath legal battle, before Tracy was affected by a crippling life-changing illness meaning she had to re-learn to walk, talk and Jo needed to deal with this whilst also keeping the business running.
Hear her story and how this most unassuming yet dedicated and driven person has brought baby pool safety and swimming lessons to a national scale.
More information on Puddle Ducks can be found at puddleducks.com
For more information on UKBF and to join our business community for free visit ukbf.co.uk
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As the Managing Director of dbfb communications, Simon Pickering's business journey has seen some fruitful highs but is riddled with crushing lows along the way.
Simon has been at the forefront of the communications industry for decades and had a lifestyle which showed this. But after a turbulent few years, Simon lost it all. The business, the house and even the money he was owed.
The road to recovery hasn't been straightforward, but in this episode, Simon shares it all.
In this episode, we sit down with Niki Fuchs, The Group CEO of Office Space in Town (OSiT). She follows in her parent's legacy in disrupting the shared office space industry and achieving some monumental milestones. It's time to find out how they achieved this and the challenges she and the business faced en route to establishing this legacy.
Co-founder of ANNA Money, Boris Diakonov, shares his story from working in a hospital at the age of 12, to becoming a co-founder of one of the largest banks in Russia, to co-founding ANNA Money in the UK. He talks through the challenges he faced in adapting to the UK banking systems, and how it's important to have open communication with your customers when the rug is pulled out from under you!
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ANNA Money (https://anna.money/)
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Brad Burton talks to Richard Osborne about how he grew up on a council estate in Salford, and his darkest times of being shot at and drug addiction until he took control of his life. Brad is now a published author with three best-selling business books on Amazon, and the UK's number 1 motivational business speaker.
You can work with Brad by contacting through workwithbrad.biz
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One of the most powerful interviews we’ve done for the UKBF Stories podcast. John Lashley is a powerful human filled with passion and a desire to see a generation thrive. His rollercoaster journey reveals how he and his son dealt with one of the deepest things life brought their way, and how that birthed the successful business they now run as a family.
We love John, and you'll love him too. It's time to find out what happened.
Grant McKenna from The Apertus Group shares his story with Richard Osborne on his journey in business. How he learned always saying yes as a salesman almost cost him his first business, and when to walk away from a deal.
Find more information about The Apertus Group at https://apertusgroup.co.uk/ Remember to visit UK Business Forums for more business advice, support and community at https://www.ukbusinessforums.co.uk/ Follow our socials at; Twitter : https://twitter.com/ukbizforumsInstagram : https://instagram.com/ukbizforums TikTok : https://tiktok.com/ukbizforumsLinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/company/uk-b...Facebook : https://facebook.com/ukbizforums
Meet the remarkable Emma Jones, the visionary and founder of Enterprise Nation, and the woman helping people achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. Emma shares her journey through her business life and shares the keys to creating and sustaining a successful business.
Here is the story of Ben Thomas! The founder of All Things Business and All Things Management. He is a champion for education in Northamptonshire, a supporter of business in the county, and a thoroughbred salesman through and through. Ben's had his ups and downs, and someone else we've met who was supported by The Prince's Trust.
From a turbulent upbringing in care to selling three businesses for multitudes of millions after receiving support from The Princes Trust to turn his life around.
I sit down with UK Business Forums member and previous community moderator Duane Jackson to talk about out his journey as an entrepreneur and how the upbringing he had helped to shape his business decisions.
We also discuss how he went toe to toe with the Sage before his first major exit as an entrepreneur and the savvy tactics he used to keep his brand and product relevant.
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Richard Osborne sat down with Oyinkansola Adebayo, the founder of Niyo Enterprise for our latest episode of the UKBF Stories series.
We can’t wait for you to hear this captivating story by a fiery and passionate visionary who wants to play a role in empowering women economically all across the world. A truly inspiring story packed with gems and insights by this phenomenal woman in business.
This is one you do not want to miss!
Whilst you are here, are you looking for a community that will help you along your business journey? 👉👉 https://www.ukbusinessforums.co.uk/?u...
From Police Officer to a Serial Entrepreneur. This weekend is the episode with Ann Brebner 🧹🧽🧼 where we learn how her career in the Metropolitan Police helped her develop many important skills to becoming a business owner, and launching a successful #franchise business.
Tanesha Marie Austen sat down with Richard Osborne to share her life and business journey and what a compelling journey it has been.
Tanesha is the co-founder of Armchair Marketing and this is a fascinating story you don't want to miss
THE MAN BEHIND MMA TV. From running a thriving security firm as a university student to establishing a media empire, and why he did what he did.
We sat down with Siju Roseje, the founder of MMA TV as part of our #UKBFStories series to find out his journey as an entrepreneur and how he almost lost everything trying to support his staff.
Now working with international brands such as Samsung Electronics, LG Electronics and Rakuten on his media platform, Siju tells his humble story.
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Jon Thorpe's story is one we are privileged to share with you. From being coached by one of the greatest sporting heroes England has ever known, to building a multi-award-winning business that services every part of today's society. His Journey in business spans over 27 years as the co-founder and Managing Director of ACS office solutions. Jon shares the highs and lows he has encountered throughout that period, and also reveals what his plan of action for the future is.
After rising through the ranks of one of the biggest food franchises in the World, Matt Fountain lost everything! But through losing it all, He is now changing the game for good with the growing success of the Bewiched Coffee, the coffee brand he founded.
Richard Osborne sat down with Shalom Lloyd, the founder of Naturally Tribal Skincare and eMQT, for our International Women's Day special. A truly inspiring story packed with gems and insights by this phenomenal woman in business.
If you’re starting or running a small business, you’re in the right place for advice and support!
Join UKBF’s founder, Richard Osborne, and his guests as they share their business stories and shine the spotlight on the highs and lows of running a small business in the UK today.
Visit UKBF and continue the conversation at www.ukbusinessforums.co.uk