The Merri-Cast: Recent Episodes
Trevor Merriden
Trevor Merriden of Merriborn Media covers all the subjects that help put every entrepreneur and leader on the fast track to business confidence. Every entrepreneurial journey has challenges and most of them revolve around mindset and approach. How do you navigate those challenges? We will help you find the answers.
Many dream about starting a business. Far fewer understand what it takes to succeed.
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m excited to be joined by Dan Dunn, Co-founder and CEO of Paperplanes, a business that’s helping reinvent direct mail by combining traditional marketing with modern technology and data.
Dan’s journey is striking. Like many others, he took the leap into entrepreneurship with courage. But what really comes through is a deep sense of personal responsibility. Nobody else is going to build your business for you, he says.
His resilience isn’t about being fearless. It’s about getting back up, learning from what didn’t work and continuing to move forward even when progress feels slow.
In this episode, Dan shares:
• What sparked his ambition to become a business owner
• Why having the right co-founder can make all the difference
• The challenges of scaling and building a team
• Why resilience really, really matters
• Why he's passionate about mentoring the next generation
If you're building a business, thinking about starting one, or just curious about what it actually takes, you can’t miss this episode.
Dan Dunn:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-dunn-1a2b763a/
Paperplanes: https://paperplanes.co.uk/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Some entrepreneurs build businesses around products. Others build them around problems they can’t stop thinking about.
This week on The Merri-Cast podcast, I’m joined by Steve Dineen – Founder and Chief Storyteller at Fuse Universal, and a pioneer of digital learning.
From the early days of e-learning to launching fuseschool and Fuse Universal, Steve has spent decades exploring one central question: how do people learn better?
What stood out to me most in this conversation is the way that Steve thinks. Fast, curious and constantly making connections, he talks about the difference between improving what already exists and solving problems people don’t yet realise they have.
In this episode, Steve shares:
• Why every business needs to start with a problem worth solving
• How he makes decisions quickly without being reckless
• What it really takes to scale knowledge, learning and expertise
• How a charitable education project became part of a much bigger mission
• Why storytelling sits at the heart of better learning
If you're building, leading or growing a business, there's plenty of insight here on entrepreneurship, learning and thinking differently.
Steve Dineen:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedineen/
Fuse Universal: https://www.fuseuniversal.com/demo
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
A common challenge founders face isn’t strategy, sales or even growth. It’s learning how to stop doing everything themselves.
On this week’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Kate Davis – founder of Meraki People, leadership advisor and champion of building businesses where people genuinely thrive.
Kate’s journey into entrepreneurship was anything but straightforward. From starting her career in law, to live events and then corporate change management, she eventually built a business helping founders scale without losing themselves or their culture along the way.
What really stood out to me in this conversation was Kate’s honesty about leadership, confidence and the realities of growth.
In this episode, Kate shares:
• Why so many founders get trapped “doing all their own stunts
• The hidden people and culture issues behind scaling problems
• Why curiosity and self-awareness matter more than most leaders realise
• The role mentors have played in helping her build confidence as an entrepreneur
• Why businesses grow faster when leaders focus on people, not just processes
One thing that really stayed with me was Kate’s point that most “people problems” in business aren’t actually people problems at all. Underneath the surface, they’re usually structure, communication or leadership issues.
If you’re building, leading or scaling a business, this episode is packed with practical insight and honest reflections.
Kate Davis:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katedavisleadership/
Meraki People: https://www.merakipeople.co.uk/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Most businesses talk about creativity. But the real question is – who is creativity actually for?
On this week’s episode of The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by Robert Edmonds - founder of NRG Studios, a creative agency helping organisations bring their stories to life through content, events and campaigns.
Robert’s career began in broadcast television, working on major productions and building his craft in an environment where storytelling really matters. That experience has clearly shaped how he approaches business today.
What really comes through with Robert in this conversation is the clarity of his thinking, particularly when it comes to clients, creativity and building a business that actually works.
In this episode, Robert shares:
• Why building a business around clients, not only creativity, changes everything
• The reality of starting from nothing and reinvesting everything back into the business
• Why building a pipeline should be every founder’s first priority
• The difference between telling a story and actually creating impact
What stayed with me was his constant focus on the client – not as a buzzword, but as something practical.
If you’re building or growing a business, there’s a lot in this episode that will resonate.
Robert Edmonds:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-edmonds-nrg-digital/
NRG Studios: https://nrg-digital.co.uk/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Most businesses don’t lose their culture overnight… they lose it as they grow.
On this week’s episode of The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by David Liddle – Founder and CEO of The TCM Group and the People & Culture Institute. He’s a leading UK voice on people, culture and leadership.
His latest book, “People and Culture” explores many of the ideas we discuss in this episode - you can find it here.
I’ve known David on and off for around 20 years, and it’s been fascinating to watch his journey – from community mediation to becoming one of the most influential thinkers in his field.
What struck me most in this conversation is how honest he is about his entrepreneurial journey. It’s had its bumpy moments, but he’s come through them with resilience and continued to move onwards and upwards.
We talk about what really happens as businesses grow – and why the systems you introduce to support that growth can quietly start working against you.
In this episode, David shares:
• Why “growth can eat culture” if you’re not careful
• The mistakes that founders make as they scale
• Why most organisations handle conflict too late - and miss the opportunities it creates
• How better conversations unlock insight, learning and performance
As you’ll hear, David said so much that resonated with me, but most importantly…
Believe in yourself.
It sounds simple, but after listening to this conversation, I hope you will.
David Liddle:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/liddledavid/
The TCM Group: https://thetcmgroup.com/
PCA: https://www.peopleprofessionals.org/
Book: People and Culture - A Practical Guide for HR Professionals & Leaders
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by Chris Mole - founder of FounderON and former Founder & CEO of Molzi by Brainlabs.
Chris started his first business days after finishing his A-levels. What followed was a journey fuelled by curiosity, commercial instinct and what he calls the superpower of naivety.
After building and selling his Amazon agency Molzi, Chris found himself facing a challenge many entrepreneurs never talk about: what happens after the exit?
In this candid and honest conversation, we explore the highs, the pivots and the unexpected emotional shifts that come with building and selling a business.
In this episode, Chris shares:
•Why overthinking kills more businesses than bad ideas
•The bold decision to cut half his revenue to chase a bigger opportunity
•Why every founder should know their “exit number” before they build
•How naivety helped him scale fast
•The strange psychology of selling your business and suddenly having “nothing to do”
We also discuss redefining success, resisting the pressure to build a unicorn and why a “quite successful” business that gives you freedom may be smarter than chasing a large valuation.
🎧 If you’re launching your first business, scaling your second, or wondering what success actually looks like for you - this one will resonate.
Chris Mole:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrismole/
FounderON: https://www.founderon.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the fantastic Alison Jones — entrepreneur, publisher, author and coach.
Alison built her career in senior roles at Oxford University Press and Palgrave Macmillan before stepping away from corporate life to create Practical Inspiration Publishing – a business that deliberately broke the traditional publishing rulebook.
In this honest and wide-ranging conversation, we explore what it really means to go it alone – from those 3am doubts and cash-flow fears to building a sustainable, values-led and genuinely impactful business.
In this episode, Alison shares:
• Why writing is one of the most powerful thinking tools entrepreneurs can use
• How her definition of success has changed - and why clarity matters more than ambition
• Why most entrepreneurs underestimate the emotional side of starting a business
• How to turn expertise into a feasible and scalable enterprise
• The realities of cash flow and taking risks
We also discuss entrepreneurship in a world of AI disruption, why books and deep thinking still matter, and how resourcefulness is what really carries founders through.
If you’re thinking about starting a business, already in the thick of it, or questioning what success looks like for you, this episode is well worth a listen.
Alison Jones:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-alison-jones/
Practical Inspiration Publishing: https://practicalinspiration.com/
Podcast: https://extraordinarybusinessbooks.com/podcast-episodes/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m kicking off 2026 with an inspiring and forward-looking conversation with Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE – leadership coach, former British Army Officer, author and host of the Inspiring Leadership podcast.
Jonathan’s career spans 20 years in the British Army, senior roles at PwC, IBM and Penna, and decades working with CEOs and leadership teams at the very top of global organisations.
In this episode, we explore Jonathan’s journey – from early lessons in humility and resilience to commanding under pressure, navigating major career transitions and ultimately finding his purpose as a coach, author and podcaster.
In this thought-provoking episode, Jonathan shares:
⚡ Why leadership in 2026 will demand adaptability, emotional intelligence and the ability to let go.
🎖️ How his time in the British Army shaped his leadership philosophy
🧭 Why great leaders don’t pretend to have all the answers
🚪 How career setbacks, restructures and closed doors pushed him towards entrepreneurship
📚 The story behind “The CEO’s Compass” and how leaders can navigate teams through turbulent times
Jonathan also reflects on his MBE, the mentors who shaped him and why inspiring leadership has never been more important in an age of uncertainty, AI disruption and global change.
Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanperks/
Website: https://jonathanperks.com/
Inspiring Leadership podcast: https://jonathanperks.com/podcasts/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This end-of-year episode is a moment to pause and reflect on some of our brilliant guest insights from the past 12 months – completely honest conversations about the entrepreneurial and leadership journey.
So many great insights – and we wish we had the room to include everyone. For this round-up episode, thank you to Bobby Dutton, Assim Ishaque, Zareen Roohi Ahmed, Emily Gill, Richard Barkey, Mindy Gibbins-Klein and Jenny Garrett for your gems and for making this episode a joy to put together.
From embracing imperfection and learning from mistakes, to knowing when to step back as a leader, their insights are a powerful reminder that business confidence is built over time, not overnight.
🙏 A huge thank you to ALL our guests this year for your brilliant contributions and insights including: Sandra Healy, Katharine Plunkett, Liz Sebag-Montefiore, Karl Pontau, Melitta Campbell, Dani Dufresne, Mark Goyder, Andrew Hill, Kate Handy, , Charles Skinner, Steve Ramona, Suvianna Grecu and David B Horne.
And thank you to everyone who’s listened and supported the podcast and also, to Charlotte Walter for her brilliant editing – and patience.
We’ll be back in 2026 with new guests sharing their stories and experiences ✨
Until then, you can catch up on all our 2025 episodes, including this highlights episode via Spotify, Apple or wherever you get your podcasts!
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the inspiring David B. Horne – founder of Add Then Multiply and Funding Focus.
In this episode, we explore his career, one that spans global finance, corporate leadership, and a mission to level the playing field for underrepresented founders.
From collecting newspaper payments as a boy in Canada to raising £60 million in funding for AIM-listed companies, David’s journey is full lessons and reflections for anyone starting and growing their business.
In this inspiring episode, David shares:
• How a paper round sparked his lifelong interest in business and finance.
• The story behind Add Then Multiply and his formula for helping entrepreneur’s scale.
• The shocking truth about funding inequality and what David is doing about it.
• The lessons he learned, both from successful exist – and ventures that didn’t go to plan.
David also talks about his two books, Add Then Multiply and Funded Female Founders, and how writing them gave him clarity, credibility, and a platform to advocate for fairer access to funding.
Tune in to hear David’s perspective on what it really takes to grow, scale, and sustain a business — and why the key to success is knowing when to let go.
David Horne:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-b-horne/
Add Then Multiply (Company): https://addthenmultiply.com/
Add Then Multiply (Book): Add Then Multiply: How small businesses can think like big businesses and achieve exponential growth
Funding Focus (Company): https://funding-focus.com/
Funded Female Founders (Book): Funded Female Founders: How to traverse the uneven playing field and secure funding to grow your business
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m delighted to be joined by Suvianna Grecu – Founder of AI for Change Foundation and DevCraft Agency, and a passionate advocate for ethical, inclusive and human-centred AI.
Suvianna’s career story is an interesting one. A law graduate turned serial entrepreneur, she first built DevCraft, creating custom AI chatbots, before realising that the conversation around AI needed to change.
Out of this realisation came AI for Change, a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping individuals and organisations use AI responsibly and build trust through transparency and accountability.
In this episode, Suvianna shares her journey from law and logic to leadership and learning, the founding of a volunteer-led movement that’s now partnering with IBM and the European Commission and her mission to make AI a force for good and growth.
Key takeaways from the episode include:
• Trust is the ultimate currency in AI.
• Why ethics must sit at the centre of innovation.
• The challenges and rewards of building a global volunteer community.
• How to balance entrepreneurial energy with self-care and boundaries.
• The importance of pausing to reflect on what you’re trying to achieve.
• Balancing optimism with realism – “We overestimate what we can achieve in one year but underestimate what’s possible in five”
This is a refreshingly human conversation about purpose, passion and practical ethics in the age of AI.
Suvianna Grecu:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/suvianna-grecu
AI for Change Foundation: aifcf.org
DevCraft Agency: devcraftagency.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the brilliant Steve Ramona, host of Doing Business with a Servant’s Heart podcast.
Steve is all about the network – he describes himself as a “super connector” specialising in impactful partnerships through personalised introductions. That doesn’t really cover it though. He specialises in the energy industry and is involved in $5bn dollar worth of projects and $125 million in partner deals.
From his early days at his family’s health club in California, to mentoring founders and hosting more than 780 podcast episodes, Steve’s journey is a masterclass in building success through generosity, active listening and genuine human connection.
In this episode, Steve shares:
• Why you can’t do entrepreneurship alone.
• Why it’s vital for entrepreneurs to seek out mentors and guidance.
• His ASLA principle – Ask. Shut up. Listen. Ask
• Why ‘serving without expecting’ is the key to lasting impact.
• How his podcast became a business engine.
• How a moment of kindness at a grocery store changed his outlook on success forever.
It’s a conversation that will leave you feeling re-energised, re-focused, and ready to serve - because as Steve says, “When you bring value and uplift others, the universe always throws the ball back.”
Steve Ramona:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steveramona/
Podcast: https://www.servinginbusinesspodcast.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m delighted to be joined by Charles Skinner – CEO of Restore plc.
I first met Charles 30 years ago and I have a lot to thank him for. He was the man who gave me my first job in journalism at Management Today magazine.
Charles’s own career and entrepreneur journey is as fascinating as it is varied. From an early career in investment banking and private equity, then magazine editor, then CEO of several quoted companies before returning to Restore as CEO in the last few years.
In this episode, he discusses the zigzags of his entrepreneurial life, the lessons learned when things go wrong and his very candid book - ‘Buy, Run, Build: A Guide to Entrepreneurship through Acquisition’ which is as humble, self-deprecating and funny as Charles is himself.
Key takeaways include:
• Failure teaches us far more than success.
• The importance of people-first leadership.
• How acquisitions can work for both small and large organisations.
• Don’t just rely on your advisors, do your own due diligence too.
• Why you must focus on secure revenues first – stability before scale.
This is a reflective and very human conversation about entrepreneurship, growth and humility in business.
Charles Skinner:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/charles-skinner-43833a1b6
New Book: Buy, Run, Build - A guide to entrepreneurship through acquisition
Restore Plc: https://www.restoreplc.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the fantastic Jenny Garrett OBE – an award-winning Author, Speaker, Thought Leader and Founder of Jenny Garrett Global.
Jenny’s entrepreneurial journey didn’t begin with a grand plan. It started cautiously, carving out one day a week to test her new coaching path. Now, it’s a thriving business that is 20 years strong.
Along the way, Jenny has become a leading voice in inclusive leadership and empowerment, helping women and underrepresented groups break through barriers.
In this episode, Jenny shares wisdom that every entrepreneur and leader can learn from, including:
• Starting small – Why began by coaching one day a week before taking the leap into full-time entrepreneurship.
• Building communities – Creating “jellies” (co-working meetups) to beat entrepreneurial loneliness and launching the UK’s first Diverse Executive Coach Directory.
• Inclusive leadership – How to go beyond the tick-box to create real, long-term impact in organisations
• Empowering the next generation – How and why she’s helped many young people make better choices and grow in confidence.
• AI as a mirror – Why the real danger is having our own biases reflected back at us and how AI can be harnessed for equity.
• Advice for entrepreneurs – Such as playing the long game, charging your worth, protecting your holidays, and not waiting too long to delegate.
Jenny’s story is one of courage, clarity, and commitment to making business a force for equity and empowerment.
Jenny Garrett:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennygarrettreflexion
Coach Directory: https://diverseexecutivecoaches.co.uk/
Podcast: https://aiforequity.world/
Rocking Ur Teens CIC: https://rockingurteens.com/
Website: jennygarrett.global
Email: info@jennygarrett.global
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Mindy Gibbins-Klein – Founder of The Book Midwife and Giving 1%.
Mindy describes herself as an “accidental entrepreneur”, but what an accident it turned out to be! Redundancy pushed her into building a career that’s empowered thousands of authors, leaders and entrepreneurs to share their stories with the world.
In our conversation, Mindy shares powerful insights that will inspire anyone thinking about writing a book, growing a business or leading with purpose.
Highlights include:
•Books as legacy - A book is a “sacred part of you going out into the world.” Too many people die with their book still inside them.
•The 90-day book process - Forget the myth that writing a book takes years. With the right mindset, structure and accountability, it can be done in 90 days.
•Thoughtful leadership vs. thought leadership - Don’t call yourself a thought leader. Let the market decide.
•Giving 1% - From her TEDx talk, small and consistent giving can make a huge impact. Could you live on 99% of your income and give 1% to causes you care about?
•Mindy’s advice for entrepreneurs – be clear about where you’re going, check in with yourself often, and don’t let others’ opinions dictate your path.
This episode is full of Mindy’s trademark energy and practical wisdom. If you’ve thought about writing a book, wondered how to stand out as a genuine leader or simply want to make a big difference with small, consistent actions, this conversation is for you.
Don’t let your story, your book or your leadership stay hidden.
Mindy Gibbins Klein:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mindygibbinsklein/
Giving 1%: https://giving1percent.com/
The Book Midwife: https://bookmidwife.com/
The Thoughtful Leader: https://mindygk.com/
Tedx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h_Fft9u69as
Email: mindy@bookmidwife.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Richard Barkey – Founder and CEO of Imparta.
I first met Richard almost 20 years ago, when his sharp questions about PR effectiveness left a lasting impression on me. Since then, he’s gone on to build and scale a business in a sector that is notoriously difficult to grow.
How has he done it? With curiosity, resilience and innovation at every turn.
In our conversation, Richard shared his journey and valuable insights that every entrepreneur can learn from, including:
• How an engineer’s mindset helped him pivot from McKinsey to founding Imparta.
• Why early investment and serendipity gave him the springboard to build something that would last.
• The importance of reinvention: from the dot-com bubble, through the 2008 crash, to pivoting early during the pandemic.
• His forward-looking approach on AI in sales and coaching, including its potential and the pitfalls of “cognitive offloading”.
• How he managed to break into the US market and scale globally, in a sector where many others have failed.
• His practical advice for entrepreneurs.
Richard’s story is one of persistence, vision and adaptability. If you’re navigating challenges in your own entrepreneurial journey, this episode is for you.
Richard Barkey:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-barkey-72604a4/
Imparta: https://imparta.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
After a short Summer break, we’re back with a very special episode of The Merri-Cast. We depart from our usual format to pay tribute to the late, great Charles Handy – social philosopher, visionary thinker and one of the most influential voices in leadership and management.
Charles’s insights heavily shaped my own journalistic and entrepreneurial journey. And his books including The Age of Unreason, The Elephant and The Flea, and The Second Curve, continue to inspire entrepreneurs, leaders and anyone curious about the world in which they live.
To honour his extraordinary life and legacy, I’m joined by three fantastic guests:
•Kate Handy – Charles’s daughter, who shares both personal memories and fascinating insights on his work.
•Mark Goyder – Founder of Tomorrow’s Company, a champion of purposeful business and a long-time admirer of Charles’s forward-thinking ideas.
•Andrew Hill – Senior Business Writer at the Financial Times, who offers an interesting perspective into Charles’s relevance to today’s challenges.
From the value of curiosity, to championing hybrid working decades ahead of everyone else, to keeping organisations human in an age of technology and AI – we explore the man behind the ideas and why his thinking matters now more than ever.
Charles Handy Books:
The Age of Unreason: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Age-Unreason-New-Thinking-World/dp/0099548313
The Elephant and The Flea: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Elephant-Flea-Thinking-Looking-Backwards/dp/0099415658
The Second Curve: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Second-Curve-Thoughts-Reinventing-Society/dp/184794132X
What do you do when the career you worked so hard for no longer feels right? And how do you build something new that’s driven by purpose, not pressure?
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by Emily Gill – Co-Founder of human skills platform Levra and a qualified coach.
In this episode, Emily shares her fascinating career journey from lawyer to Oxford MBA student, to entrepreneurs. It’s full of insight, humility and real-world lessons.
Other key highlights include:
• Her father’s influence, particularly his encouragement that “anything is possible”.
• How her career change came from periods of quiet reflection – not a single ‘lightbulb moment’.
• Her perseverance and belief in long-term goals.
• Learning to embrace uncertainty and imperfection.
• Not taking setbacks personally.
• Building a values-led business with long term impact.
… and much more!
Emily’s honesty and grit makes this episode a must-listen for anyone navigating change or wanting clarity in their entrepreneurial journey.
Emily Gill:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilygilllevra/
Website: https://www.levra.me/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
We love guests who challenge the status quo – and our latest one does exactly that.
This week, I’m joined by Dani Dufresne – Emmy Award Winning Executive Producer and Founder of The Auxiliary.
Dani’s journey from film school in LA to reinventing how creative production works is inspiring and refreshingly honest. With over 20 years’ production experience across Film, TV, Commercials and Events, Dani’s built an incredible reputation for turning her client’s visions into reality.
In this episode, Dani discusses her experience with burnout, how she found her niche and reinvented herself.
Key insights that Dani shares in this episode include:
• How knowing what she didn’t want helped shape her business model.
• Creating a fractional, creative business that actually works.
• Winning awards, without chasing the spotlight.
• Why brands should rethink how they tell stories.
If you have ever felt stuck in a traditional model – or dreamed of breaking one, then listen to Dani because this episode is for you.
Dani Dufresne:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danidufresne/
Website: https://www.theauxiliaryco.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by Melitta Campbell, otherwise known as ‘The Value Whisperer’. She is a business and leadership coach, TEDx Speaker, best-selling author and an unapologetic introvert.
In this episode, Melitta shares how she went from being a shy child, who believed that no one wanted to hear her voice, to coaching female founders to sell themselves and their services with clarity and confidence. Her journey is impressive to say the least.
Key insights that Melitta shares include:
• How a bad job interview made her learn the importance of owning her value.
• How quiet leadership can be more compelling than loud self-promotion.
• The link between self-care and entrepreneurial success.
• How introverts can create their own networking rules – and thrive on their own terms.
• Debunking the myth that salespeople must be pushy.
• The importance of reflecting on how far you’ve come – not just focus on what’s next.
Melitta also shares what we can expect from her new book ‘The Art of Value Whispering’. It’s due for release later this year so keep your eyes peeled!
This conversation is inspiring for any start-up or scale-up entrepreneurs wresting with being an introvert, imposter syndrome or just uncomfortable with traditional notions of selling.
Melitta Campbell:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melitta/
Website: https://www.melittacampbell.com/
Podcast: https://www.melittacampbell.com/podcast
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, we pick up where we left off with part 2 of our conversation with Dr. Zareen Roohi Ahmed.
In this episode, Zareen shares how she launched Gift Wellness without any business background, but with a powerful mission and drive.
In part 2 of our conversation, Zareen also discusses:
• Realising that period poverty wasn’t just abroad, but everywhere, including on her doorstep.
• Building eco-friendly products before "sustainable" was a trend.
• Facing resistance and breaking long-held taboos about period poverty.
• Learning the really hard way about how product distribution works.
… and much more!
💬 “Be prolific, not perfect.”
That’s one of Zareen’s mantras - and both this episode and Part 1 left a deep impression on us in this respect and many others.
Let us know what you think!
Dr. Zareen Roohi Ahmed:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zareen-roohi-ahmed-phd-3b51b219/
Gift Wellness: https://giftwellness.co.uk/
Halimah Trust: https://www.halimahtrust.org.uk/
Period Poverty: https://www.periodpoverty.uk/
Website: https://www.zareenroohi.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by Zareen Roohi, Founder & CEO of Gift Wellness, an inspiring voice in purpose-led entrepreneurship.
In the first of a powerful two-parter, Zareen shares her remarkable life and career journey – from growing up as the daughter of Pakistani immigrants in the West Midlands to navigating early life challenges, building a remarkable and diverse career and then, tragically, losing her daughter Halimah in 2007.
Out of this unimaginable loss came incredible resilience and purpose. Zareen built the Halimah Trust and later launched Gift Wellness – the latter born out of a sudden and powerful moment of clarity.
In part 1 of our conversation, Zareen shares:
• Navigating identity and racism in building her career.
• Her experience as CEO of the British Muslim Forum in the wake of the 7/7 bombings.
• Building a legacy through her daughter’s passions and values.
• The birth of Gift Wellness and its mission to restore dignity to women in crisis.
This conversation is raw and real - and offers real insight to entrepreneurs seeking purpose, as well as profit.
Stay tuned…because part 2 is coming soon where we dive deeper into Gift Wellness and Zareen’s brilliant advice for fledgling entrepreneurs.
Dr. Zareen Roohi Ahmed:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-zareen-roohi-ahmed-phd-3b51b219/
Gift Wellness: https://giftwellness.co.uk/
Halimah Trust: https://www.halimahtrust.org.uk/
Period Poverty: https://www.periodpoverty.uk/
Website: https://www.zareenroohi.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the brilliant Karl Pontau – entrepreneur and host of The Human Connection Podcast.
Karl’s journey is nothing short of inspiring - from teenage brain tumour survivor to a purpose-driven entrepreneur, podcast host and soon-to-be author.
In this episode, Karl dives into the importance of having a network and forging real human connections, especially in a world increasingly obsessed by data, metrics and AI.
Key insights that Karl shares in this episode include:
• How his life-threatening experiences as a teenager shaped his attitude toward risk and entrepreneurship.
• How he discovered the power of storytelling through his passion for creativity.
• The power of intentional networking and the importance of giving rather than receiving.
• His passion for his Human Connection Podcast.
…and much more!
Karl:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kpontau/
Podcast: The Human Connection
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
In this episode, I discuss a topic frequently misunderstood and undervalued: creativity. The everyday creativity that fuels problem-solving, drives innovation and unlocks confidence.
I explore three common barriers that hold people back in their creativity:
⏳ “I don’t have time to be creative” – Time constraints aren’t a barrier. It’s what can light your creativity in the first place.
🤔 “I’m not a creative person” – Despite popular belief, creativity isn’t a talent you’re born with; it’s a mindset anyone can develop with practice.
💪 Creativity and resilience – They’re not only connected, they’re intertwined.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, business leader or stuck in a rut, this is episode is a reminder that your creative potential is already within you.
Plus, I share a 7-step guide to help you unlock creativity and give you more confidence (but you’ll need to tune in to hear those!).
Look out for cameo appearances in the episode from my previous podcast guests Marie-France Samba, a Branding and Leadership Coach extraordinaire and Cheryl Luzet, CEO of Wagada.
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn: https://merriborn.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Joining me on The Merri-Cast this week is the fantastic Liz Sebag-Montefiore – co-founder of career and talent management consultancy 10Eighty.
Along with current CEO Michael Moran, the pair have steered the growth of the business for over 13 years now. And in June, Liz takes over as CEO, so it seemed like a great moment to talk to her about her entrepreneurial past, present and future.
In this episode Liz shares stories about her early employment including the two people who inspired her to find confidence and the courage to take risks.
Key insights that Liz shares in this episode include:
• Going with your gut
• Accepting that you will make mistakes
• The importance of delegation
• Being authentic to oneself
• Making sure the work you do is what you want to be known for
…and much more!
Liz Sebag-Montefiore:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizsebag/
10Eighty: https://10eighty.co.uk/
Email: liz.s-montefiore@10eighty.co.uk
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Joining me on The Merri-Cast this week is the wonderful Katharine Plunkett.
I first met Katharine around 25 years ago when we both worked for Haymarket Media Group. She made a big impression on me then - and continues to do so in this episode.
Katharine is an entrepreneur and commercial business leader with extensive international experience in global business growth. And today, she runs two businesses plus an extensive network of founders in the travel industry.
In this episode, Katharine shares the story of her early employment before taking the plunge and becoming a business founder.
Key insights that Katharine shares in this episode include:
•Why hard work always pays off.
•The superpower of managing your calendar.
•Regularly changing your work environment.
•Going ‘bigger’ – be ambitious and don’t hold yourself back.
•Why travel is essential to both her personal and professional life.
•The importance of a strong network.
•Always being of service to her clients.
Katharine Plunkett:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/katharineplunkett
Pablo and Paloma: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pablo-and-paloma-limited/
Luxe Travellers: https://www.linkedin.com/company/luxe-travellers/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Joining me this week is the fantastic Assim Ishaque.
He is the Founder & Director of Envirup and Simbrix Ltd as well as being a Business Coach, Speaker, Inventor, Investor and NED.
Assim’s career journey is truly fascinating. From early redundancies, dyslexia and industry barriers to building multiple, successful business ventures, his story is one of true resilience, adaptability and innovation.
He also highlights the importance of giving back. Throughout his career, Assim has provided opportunities to hundreds of interns so they can gain experience in their chosen field and launch successful careers.
His belief? Supporting others is just as important as personal success.
Other key takeaways Assim shares in this episode include:
•The power of innovation.
•Harnessing your creativity.
•Understanding who to trust.
•Giving business ideas time.
•The importance of quality and profitability in business.
…and much more!
Assim Ishaque:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/assimishaque
Envirup: https://www.envirup.com/
Simbrix Ltd: https://simbrix.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
What is the best possible question you can ask, when you're curious about someone or something?
The #MerriCast is the podcast show that puts you on the fast track to business confidence. And this week I'm taking a more personal look on the role that curiosity played in building my confidence.
When I was younger I lacked a lot of personal confidence. I developed it through asking lots of questions about the world around me. And I (very) slowly came to realise that real confidence came through the answers. They helped me find 'joy in the journey' rather than just striving to get to 'the top', whatever that means.
Now I want to help others find confidence and joy in their own journey …
I have 5Cs in my coaching model – inevitably, they all have to begin with the same letter (Merriden's First Law of Alliteration🙂 ) – and the first of these is to help others release power of their …. Curiosity.
Well the first thing is – it’s not a gift, it’s a skill! Curiosity is really, really coming into its own in a very messy world, and the great news is that it is very, very learnable. So I'll be asking ..
-
How can you pick the right questions to ask of others, without just seeming a bit nosey?
-
Which questions work best (put your own in the link below!)?
-
And how can you take the discoveries you make for your your own personal growth?
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
For our latest episode of The Merri-Cast podcast, we had the pleasure of speaking with Sandra Healy, Co-Founder and CEO of inclusio.
For 20 years, Sandra excelled in engineering and leadership roles in the global tech sector. She eventually took a leap and started inclusio, alongside her co-founders Deborah Murphy and Arthur Lubambo in 2020…just as the pandemic hit.
At one point, Sandra pitched the business over 40 times before getting a positive response. Despite these and other challenges her story is one of resilience, vision and seizing opportunities when they come.
Her advice to other fledgling entrepreneurs?
‘If it’s in you, do it.’
We couldn’t agree more!
Key takeaways Sandra shares in this episode include:
•How to move from being an ‘intrapreneur’ within a business to an ‘entrepreneur’ out on your own.
•Why you only regret the things you don’t do – with more support and funding than ever before, there’s no better time to become an entrepreneur.
•Don’t be daunted if it’s just you and your idea when you start – there are so many ways to get backing for what you do.
•That moment when you ‘take the leap’ – the best opportunities open up when you back yourself.
…and much more!
Sandra Healy:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sandra-healy/
inclusio LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/inclusio-io/
inclusio: https://www.inclusio.io/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Do you love what you do enough to do it for free? Most would probably say no.
But our latest guest sees life differently…
For our first episode of 2025, I’m delighted to be joined by the fantastic Bobby Dutton – Entrepreneur, Keynote Speaker, Performer and Philanthropist.
Bobby’s entrepreneurial adventures are rooted in his purpose and passion.
His first business GBM6 stems from his passion for music and is all about “making people happy, through legendary events”.
In 2024, he set up his second business, Think like a Pilot which came from his passion for flying and the desire we all feel to have both freedom and control in our lives.
In this episode Bobby discusses:
•Being driven by passion and purpose rather than financial motivation.
•Why the most difficult thing about being your own boss is…being your own boss.
•The importance of delegating and trusting your team.
•Why hustle is the goal and stress is not success.
•Having simple key metrics for tracking personal, professional and physical health.
…and more!
Bobby has such a brilliant story and explains it with such enthusiasm and optimism, you can’t help but smile when listening to it.
Bobby Dutton:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/bobbydutton
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bdutton/?hl=en
GBM6: https://gbm6.com/
Think Like a Pilot: https://thinklikeapilot.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Our final episode of The Merri-Cast podcast this year is now live! 😊
We’ve had some fantastic guests over the last 12 months, all with unique stories to tell and valuable advice on what it takes to be an entrepreneur. In this episode, we look back at a few of my favourite guest moments.
A huge thank all our guests this year for your brilliant contributions, stories and insights: Adam Twidell & Carol Cork, Mark Goyder, Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, Solomon Thimothy, Karina Murray, Matthew Phelan, Simon Shepard, Anne Fulton, Adrian Moorhouse, Polly Barnfield, Per Wimmer and Liz Barclay.
And thank you to everyone who has listened!
We’ll be back in 2025 with new guests sharing their stories and experiences, but until then…Merry Christmas!
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Our last guest of the year on The Merri-Cast Podcast is the fantastic Liz Barclay – Small Business Commissioner and entrepreneur.
Liz’s entrepreneurial spark has always been a part of her DNA. Coming from a family of entrepreneurs, her work has always been centred around helping others and making a difference.
After spells in the voluntary sector and becoming an entrepreneur herself, Liz became the Small Business Commissioner in 2021, maintaining her commitment to putting others first and advocating for small businesses.
Key highlights from the episode include:
- Why she’s so passionate about helping others.
- Finding a mentor to you to fill your gaps.
- How she tackles resistance to change.
- Finding creative ways to move organisations forward.
- Actionable advice for entrepreneurs starting a business.
- The perils of late payments – and how to avoid them.
- The importance of ‘Speaking Up’ when you see wrongdoing.
…and much more besides!
Liz has so many lessons to share that will help entrepreneurs starting or scaling their business!
Liz Barclay:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lizbarclay
Website: https://peoplematter.tv/people-who-make-a-difference/liz-barclay/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Our 50th episode of The Merri-Cast podcast is now live! We’re thrilled that joining us on this milestone episode, is the brilliant Per Wimmer – entrepreneur, adventurer, philanthropist and recent winner at the Business Book Awards.
From working at prestigious organisations like Goldman Sachs and McKinsey, space training, skydiving over Mount Everest to founding multiple businesses including Wimmer Financial – Per’s life and career has been full of variety and exciting adventures.
Per’s experience means he has a unique perspective on blending ambition with purpose. In this episode, he tells some fascinating stories and shares valuable insights including:
- Facing challenges head-on
- Human interaction - why people want to interact with interesting people
- The 7 Core Values for Success and what value is most important to him
- How to start and grow a sustainable business
- How his adventures fuel his entrepreneurial drive
There’s a common view that entrepreneurs should be focused on one thing, but Per’s story proves that you can balance risk, adventure and make a positive impact. So, whether you're a new entrepreneur, a seasoned professional or someone inspired by courageous journeys, this episode is for you.
Per Wimmer:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/perwimmer
Wimmer Financial: https://wimmerfinancial.com/
Wimmer Space: https://wimmerspace.com/
Book: The Sky is No Limit
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week on The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by the brilliant Polly Barnfield OBE, CEO and Founder of Maybe* which helps companies save time and improve results through the use of AI.
Polly’s career started with riding horses and working for a web design company, before deciding that taking instructions from others wasn’t for her. After setting up various business and charitable ventures, she set up Maybe* 10 years ago.
In this episode, Polly shares fantastic insights including:
- The importance of planning in encouraging the best ideas.
- Employing people better than you.
- Being prepared to change your plan but stick to your vision.
- What “winning” means to her.
- Viewing AI as an ally, rather than an enemy.
Whilst Polly explains that entrepreneurship is tough, she emphasises how much fun it is too. What impressed me the most though, is how brilliantly Polly tells her story, her positive take on AI and why as a founder, you must get used to being wrong far more often than you might care to admit.
Polly Barnfield:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/pollybarnfield
Website: https://www.maybetech.com/
Email: polly@maybetech.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week, I am joined by Adrian Moorhouse MBE - Entrepreneur and Consultant, co-founder and former Managing Director of Lane4 - and of course an Olympic Gold Medallist.
Following a hugely successful swimming career as an individual, Adrian decided that he wanted to be part of something bigger in building a business. So, in 1995, he co-founded leadership development consultancy Lane4.
In this interview, Adrian takes us on his incredible journey from world-beating sportsman to business success.
In this episode, Adrian also shares many brilliant insights including:
- His desire for control and being in charge of his destiny
- Being open to feedback
- Why values must guide your decision making
- Keeping things simple as the business grows
…and much more!
What struck and impressed me the most in this conversation with Adrian was how he transitioned from a career where he had significant control to one over which he enjoyed less – and how he worked how to succeed in both.
So, whether you’re just starting out or changing direction, or already an entrepreneur, this episode is filled with valuable lessons to help you keep growing and adapting in the face of new change and new challenges.
Adrian Moorhouse:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrianmoorhouse
Email: moorhouse67@gmail.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On this week’s episode, I’m thrilled to be joined by Anne Fulton, Founder and CEO of Fuel50, the business that helps clients create career pathways for their employees.
She’s led the firm’s rapid growth to more than 100 employees – or “Fuellies” as she likes to call them – in supporting a number of world-class brands.
A single moment, at the age of 14, led Anne on a lifelong journey to create a career test which allowed everyone to find and create their futures. Since then, she’s been a self-confessed ‘serial entrepreneur’.
Over the course of her career, Anne has set up numerous successful businesses including Fuel50.
Anne likens being an entrepreneur to white-water rafting – something I can relate to. Her drive, passion and commitment to entrepreneurship is obvious throughout our conversation – it’s difficult to not feel inspired.
In this episode, she shares valuable insights including:
•Why entrepreneurship was – and always will be – her calling.
•Seeing AI as an opportunity.
•Building and maintaining an experimental mindset, particularly as a new entrepreneur…
…and much more!
Anne Fulton:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/annefultonfuel50
Fuel50: https://fuel50.com/
Email: anne@fuel50.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On this week’s episode of The Merri-Cast, I’m joined by my good friend, the brilliant Simon Shepard - Founder and CEO of Optima-Life.
Simon is a physiotherapist by training but has turned into a fantastic entrepreneur. In this episode, he shares his unique career journey and the lessons he’s learnt along the way. He’s also in the middle of an exciting new venture, which you’ll hear more about at the end of the interview.
What inspired me about Simon’s journey is his deep-seated passion for curiosity and progress - something we can all learn from. He also offered other valuable insights including:
- Embracing new opportunities and what’s possible if you have a go.
- The value of a good support network and being trusted by colleagues.
- Being driven by progress and finding solutions.
- Understanding and listening to the people you help.
- The importance of networking and marketing.
- Being confident in asking questions and learning from others.
Simon Shepard:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/simon-shepard-a9868a16
Optima-Life: https://optima-life.com/
Email: simonshepard@optima-life.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today’s episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Matthew Phelan - Co-Founder of The Happiness Index, an employee engagement and happiness platform.
From working on a farm at a young age, to creating a business plan in Wetherspoons, and founding a business with friends - Matthew’s career journey is certainly unique.
In this episode, Matthew shares the key moments which have led him on his own path to happiness and other fantastic insights and lessons including:
- What working on a farm from a young age taught him.
- Why chaos and uncertainty in the world is better for a start-up.
- The inspiration and story behind The Happiness Index.
- His experience and the benefits of being in business with friends.
- The importance of allowing yourself to feel emotions.
- Surrounding yourself with people of all ages and knowledge.
- Why freedom is a top 4 driver of happiness.
Matthew Phelan:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/matthewphelan
The Happiness Index: https://thehappinessindex.com/
Website: https://mattphelan.co.uk/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On this week’s episode of The Merri-Cast podcast, I’m thrilled to be joined by the wonderful Karina Murray – Founder and CEO of Aunua Global.
Karina’s mission with Aunua Global is incredibly inspiring and in this episode, she shares how the business came about and why she’s so passionate about helping young people.
She also shares many valuable lessons including:
•Finding your purpose and people who understand it.
•Her global community initiative for young people.
•Building up your credibility.
•Not being afraid to pivot if what you’re doing isn’t working.
•The importance of having conversations and asking for help.
•Why you need to connect and believe in what you do.
•Challenging yourself and realising your capabilities.
Karina Murray:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/karina-murray-169361161
Aunua Global: https://aunuaglobal.org/
Email: karina@aunuaenterprise.eu
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On this week's episode, I’m delighted to be joined by the brilliant Solomon Thimothy - Co-Founder and CEO of OneIMS – Integrated Marketing Solutions and Clickx.
He’s helped businesses increase their revenue using his 10X Framework and is also an expert in lead generation and customer acquisition.
In this episode, Solomon’s passion is clear through his positivity and energy. He shares many valuable lessons including:
•The importance of experimenting.
•The power of going local.
•Why sacred days to focus on one thing are essential.
•Being disciplined in what you do.
•Risking a lot to make a lot.
•Being comfortable with not making it.
Solomon Thimothy:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/solomonthimothy
OneIMS: https://www.oneims.com/
Clickx: https://www.clickx.io/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
As entrepreneurs, it’s essential to have resilience but until we face certain challenges, we often don’t recognise how resilient we truly are.
Joining us this week is someone who’s resilience shines through – the brilliant Kelly Gilmour-Grassam, Founder and Director of Making You Content.
Kelly had a passion for writing from an early age and rather than going straight into a job working with others, she decided to set up her own business.
In this episode, Kelly shares the incredible journey of starting Making You Content at only 21 years old, what’s contributed to its success over the last 10 years and the lessons she’s learnt on the way.
Kelly also discusses:
•Why you can’t ‘copy and paste’ yourself when recruiting others.
•The importance of staying curious and being agile.
•Being able to think on your feet.
•Why you need to be resilient.
•The value of a good support network both personally and professionally.
•Why running a business can be hard, but also remembering it’s a privilege.
Kelly Gilmour-Grassam:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kellygilmourgrassam
Website: www.makingyoucontent.co.uk
Email: kelly@makingyoucontent.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today’s episode, we’re joined by the brilliant Mark Goyder, Founder of Tomorrow’s Company – “a not-for-profit think tank that exists to inspire and enable business to be a force for good.”
In this episode, Mark details his early career, particularly the four people who inspired him during this time. He also shares the story of how Tomorrow’s Company came to be and how the company has evolved over the years.
Mark also discusses:
•Why failure is a great teacher and can be a great door opener.
•Why the concept of stewardship is absolutely vital when considering how to regulate a business.
•The importance of building up reserves.
•Why both internal and external partnerships are essential.
I learnt a lot from hearing Mark’s journey and I’m certain that if you listen to the episode, you will too.
Mark:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mark-goyder-72713827
Tomorrow’s Company: https://www.tomorrowscompany.com/
Website: https://markgoyder.com/
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Today’s guests are Adam Twidell and Carol Cork – co-founders of Private Fly, a hugely successful aviation business that grew and grew until it was acquired a few years ago.
In this episode, they share their entrepreneurial journey of Private Fly as well as all the work they’ve done since deciding to sell the business.
They also discuss:
•Why you need to believe in what you do.
•The importance of taking risks and being all in.
•Why you must have focus and know your key performance indicators (KPI).
•The value of hiring and building a team early and recognising you can’t do everything yourself.
•Why you should empower your team to help make decisions.
•The power of telling everyone your story.
•Why risking everything might not actually be risking everything.
•The freedom of starting a business in the first place.
Adam and Carol are both incredibly positive people and after listening to their story, it’s easy to see why they’ve had such success!
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Our last episode of the year is now live and features the fantastic Chris Parke – Co-Founder of Talking Talent.
In this episode, Chris shares some brilliant insights, including:
👏 The importance of purpose.
📈 Using data to build a business case.
👍 Making more good decisions than bad.
📆 Spending enough time on planning.
😊 Why you need to surround yourself with good people.
📞 The more conversations you have, the more clarity you get.
Chris Parke:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/chris-parke
Email: chris@talking-talent.com
Talking Talent: https://talking-talent.com/
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today’s episode, I am joined by the fantastic Kim Ades – President of Frame of Mind Coaching and Journal Engine Software and CEO of The Journal That Talks Back.
Kim’s career has been one full of variety – there’s not many interviews in which you fit a psychology degree, a balloon business, then a software entrepreneur.
Because of this variety, Kim offers a lot of great insights throughout the episode, including:
- How your thinking impacts your actions and inactions.
- Why listening to yourself is one of the greatest formats of self-awareness.
- The importance of working on your mindset.
- The impact of journaling in the coaching process.
Kim Ades:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kimades
Frame of Mind Coaching: https://www.frameofmindcoaching.com/
Journal Engine Software: https://www.journalengine.com/
The Journal That Talks Back: https://www.thejournalthattalksback.com/
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Welcome to our latest episode of The Merri-Cast podcast!
We’ve covered so many subjects that every entrepreneur has faced on their business journey and now that we’re close to 40 episodes of the podcast, we’ve listened back and noticed some issues come up time and again.
One of these is the subject of authenticity. So, we thought we’d make this week’s episode a little different - a mini Merri-Cast if you like, on this particular subject.
In the episode, you’ll hear from previous guests Terri Vincent, Zoe Walters, Joel Blake, Andrew Armes and Marie-France Samba who have all shared valuable insights and wisdom on why#authenticity is so important.
On this week’s episode of The Merri-Cast Podcast, I’m joined by the brilliant Jane Sunley –Co-founder of Hendrick & Hyde and a best-selling business author.
Jane previously had a thriving career in hospitality. However, since turning to entrepreneurship, she has founded and co-founded four hugely successful businesses including Purple Cubed and Talent Toolbox.
In this episode, Jane discusses the power of mentoring, seeing the job through, why you need a business plan, and the importance of ethics. She also shares her top motivators as an entrepreneur and what makes you an authentic business.
Jane’s career speaks for itself and continues to go from strength-to-strength. I learnt some truly valuable business lessons from this conversation and I’m certain you will too!
Jane Sunley:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jane-sunley-purplecubed-founder
Email: jane@purplecubed.com
Hendrick & Hyde: https://www.hendrickandhyde.com/
Book: Purple Your People
Book: The People Formula
Book: It's Never Ok to Kiss the Interviewer
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Having a career structure and plan is the driving force behind many people’s success. However, for my next guest on The Merri-Cast, having a largely instinctive career is what’s helped them the most.
This week, I’m joined by the insightful Lucy McCarraher – Author, Keynote Speaker, Book Mentor & Publisher, and Founder of Rethink Press and The Business Book Awards.
Lucy’s career has been largely unplanned but one full of inspiration. In this episode, she discusses doing what you love, why partnerships are vital, and using books to build your business.
She also shares the importance of learning as you go and being inspired to a give a voice to others.
Lucy’s story is proof that a planned career isn’t the only way to see success, it’s pursuing your passion and doing what inspires you.
Lucy McCarraher:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lucymccarraher
Email: lucy@rethinkpress.com
Rethink Press: rethinkpress.com
Business Book Awards: https://www.businessbookawards.co.uk/
The Real Secret Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Real-Secret-universe-hasnt-delivered/dp/1907498397
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On this week's episode, I’m joined by the brilliant Rachel Turner.
Rachel began her career as a music industry entrepreneur but over the last 20 years, has been a successful coach and leadership advisor. She is the Founder of ‘Achieve Unlimited’ and Co-Founder of VC Talent Lab “which aims to put leadership talent development at the heart of the VC ecosystem”.
Rachel is also author of the #1 best-selling book ‘The Founder’s Survival Guide’ which was recently shortlisted for a Business Book Award.
In this episode, Rachel discusses hanging out with the winners, and the balance between fear and aspiration. She also shares the importance of knowing how to manage, being self-aware, and networking as a start-up entrepreneur.
Rachel:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/achieveunlimited
Email: rachel@vctalentlab.com
VC Talent Lab: vctalentlab.com/
Achieve Unlimited: achieveunlimited.com/
The Founder's Survival Guide: https://www.thefounderssurvivalguide.com/
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today's episode, I'm joined by Lisa Michaels - CEO of ‘Lisa Michaels’, GeniusU Mentor, and Real Estate Investor.
Lisa’s career speaks for itself with over 30 years of “soul-filled business and leadership experience”, an author of several books, 20+ years as an accelerated learning workshop facilitator, and more.
Her first successful business experience was the owner of a 500+ pupil ballet school and since then, her career has continued to grow.
In this episode, Lisa discusses the importance of starting and finishing projects on time and the perils of boredom. She also shares why entrepreneur is a skillset that you must continually practice and how the forces of nature help the creation of your business.
Links:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lisamichaels-author-mentor
Email: info@lisa-michaels.com
Website: https://www.lisa-michaels.com/
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
This week, I am joined by Felicity Cowie – Founder of Cowiecom, Business Consultant, International Communications Trainer, Author, and an award-winning former BBC, ITV, and Panorama journalist.
As a former journalist turned entrepreneur myself, I could resonate with a lot of what Felicity had to say and I’m sure you will as well.
In this episode, Felicity discusses 6 questions that can work for businesses as well as journalists, the art of forgiving yourself, and why confusion can be a good thing to feel in business if you handle it properly.
She also shared the interesting journey of writing her latest book 'Exposure: Insider Secrets to make your business a go-to authority for journalists’ - which was recently nominated at The Business Book Awards!
Links:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/felicitycowie
Email: felicity@cowiecom.com
Twitter: FelicityCowie
Website: https://www.cowiecom.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Exposure-business-go-authority-journalists/dp/1788603397
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Entrepreneur or not, it’s important to know the value in what you do and for our latest guest on ‘The Merri-Cast’, it’s no different.
Joining me today is the fantastic Jude Jennison – Founder of Leaders by Nature, Founder of AskOpus Ltd, Coach, Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host.
In this episode, Jude discusses:
- Having a thirst for knowledge at a young age
- Looking for value in what you do
- Being led by your intuition
- Having a solution that’s fit for purpose
- Dealing with doubt
- Giving things a go.
Jude:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/judejennison
Email: jude@judejennison.com
Website: https://www.judejennison.com
'Innovating Humanity' Podcast: https://www.leadershipacademy.online/podcasts/innovating-humanity
'Leading through Uncertainty' Podcast - https://www.leadershipacademy.online/podcasts/leading-through-uncertainty
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Being connected to your purpose and your ‘why’ is important for any entrepreneur and for my brilliant guest Zoe Walters, it’s absolutely integral.
Zoe is the Founder & CEO of The OutPlacers, a self-employed Coach & Consultant at ‘Zig Zag Consulting Ltd’, and Founder & Head Coach of ‘The Coach House Club’.
In this episode, Zoe discusses knowing yourself well enough that your intuition is your GPS, discerning what’s truly right for you and trusting yourself implicitly.
She also explains why comprehension is one of her top values and why her decisions will never be made in money again.
So, whether you’re just starting your business or your 20 years down the road, this episode is full of important lessons and inspiration that you won’t want to miss.
Zoe:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/zoewalters
The OutPlacers: https://www.theoutplacers.com/
Website: https://www.zoewalters.com/
Email: zoe@zoewalters.com
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Today, I am joined by the brilliant Bob Quick - CEO of Blue Light Global Solutions and Executive Director of Global Secure Accreditation.
Previously, Bob had a hugely successful 30+year career as a detective in the police force.
In this episode, he discusses:
- Being resilient to disappointment
- The two vital qualities you need as an entrepreneur
- Learning from your mistakes
- Why you need people around you who challenge you
- Being prepared to try different things
- How following your vision and pursuing it, even if it's wrong, will help you find the right answer.
Bob:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/robert-bob-quick
Blue Light Global Solutions: https://uk-bgs.com/
Global Secure Accreditation: https://www.gsaccreditation.com/
Trevor:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today's episode, I am joined by the insightful Andrew Armes – Cultural Architect, Coach, and Leadership Development Expert and Founder of The Purposeful Practice Ltd.
Previously, Andrew was a self-employed Leadership Development Consultant, Head of Talent Acquisition at 'Roche', and also co-founded The Spring Project.
In this episode, he discusses:
- A life changing experience
- Inner needs vs purpose
- Applying entrepreneurial principle within larger organisations
- Embracing your identity and who you truly are
- The importance of knowing why you do what you do
- Asking for help
- Unhelpful humility
Andrew:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/andrewarmes
Email: andrew@emeiconsulting.com
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
After a short break, The Merri-Cast podcast is back and I’m thrilled that my next guest is the brilliant David Mellor – Founder of David Mellor Publishing.
David has had a fantastic career. Previously, he was Director of David Mellor Mentoring for 14 years, Director of Azure Partners limited for over 15 years, and also has 25 years’ experience in commercial and investment banking. He has also published “The Crew to Captain” series of books focusing on the different stages in a business life journey.
In this episode, he explains:
- Why he’s a relationship guy and not a deal maker
- The darkest time of his life
- Identifying ‘wrong’uns’
- What gave him his entrepreneurial buzz
- One of the biggest lessons he learnt early on in his career
David:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidwmellor
Books: https://www.davidmellorpublishing.co.uk/
Email: david@davidmellorpublishing.co.uk
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today’s episode, I am joined by Mac Attram – World-Class Business Trainer & Coach, #1 International Bestselling Author, International Speaker, and Founder & CEO of MindSpace Coaching.
This episode is filled with incredible wisdom and advice from Mac. He discusses passion vs purpose, why you can’t improve what you don’t measure, and why your business and success can only grow to the extent that you grow.
He also shares his lowest point and how the experience helped him realise what does and doesn’t work in business.
Mac:
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/macattram
MindSpace Coaching: https://www.macattram.com/MindSpace-Coaching
Email: mac@attram.net
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
On today's episode, I am joined by Steve Jack - Owner and Managing Director of Gem Cable Solutions.
Over the course of his career, Steve has been no stranger to taking risks – whether it’s moving to London with £50 in his pocket, spending his redundancy money on toys to open a toy shop, or putting himself outside his comfort zone.
In this episode, he discusses having an engineering mindset, taking a risk, and letting go. Steve also shares why self-belief is important and making decisions for the greater good.
Steve:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/steve-jack-2981642
Gem Cable Solutions: https://www.gemcable.co.uk/
Email: steve.jack@gemcable.co.uk
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Knowing where you fit in and where you don’t is difficult, but according to our upcoming guest on The Merri-Cast, it’s an essential part of your entrepreneurial journey.
On today's episode, I’m joined by Peter Winick – founder and CEO of @Thought Leadership Leverage.
A self-confessed information junkie, Peter constantly wants to learn more and has always felt like an entrepreneur at heart - from washing cars as a young kid, to starting his first real corporation at the age of 22, before starting @Thought Leadership Leverage almost 15 years ago.
Peter lives his entrepreneurial life to the full and in this upcoming episode, Peter discusses his entrepreneurial roots. He also explains the importance of having your mission, vision, and values aligned when you have a business partner, why there’s never been a better and easier time to launch anything, plus much more.
Peter:
LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/peterwinick
Twitter: https://twitter.com/PeterWinick
Thought Leadership Leverage: https://thoughtleadershipleverage.com/
Podcast: Thought Leadership Leverage
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Some people would say that starting a business with friends or family is risky, but for Matt Rogan it was a no-brainer.
In September 2011, Matt, alongside his wife Claire and friend, Gareth Balch, set up Two Circles – a successful data driven sports agency that helps sports organisations build direct relationships with sports and fans.
After selling the company twice, Matt is now the Founder and Director of Rogan sport – a portfolio career he has built and is also a Non-Executive Director at the English Institute of Sport.
In this episode of The Merri-Cast, Matt explains what it was like to start a business as part of a team, the importance of having an outlet, playing “hard to get” with clients and much more.
Matt:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattrogan/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/mattrogansport
Rogan Sport: https://mattrogansport.com/
Matt's Book: All to Play for: How sport can reboot our future
Trevor:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/TrevorMerriden
Merriborn Media: https://merribornmedia.co.uk/
Email: trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
When you become an entrepreneur, it’s important to know why you’re doing it and what you want to achieve. You need to have a mission and purpose.
On today's episode, I'm joined by the fantastic Masami Sato - best-selling Author, 2x TEDx Speaker, and Founder and CEO of B1G1 - a global giving movement of effective 'transaction-based' giving connecting businesses and charity organisations (high-impact projects) around the world in real win-win relationships.
All our guests have had a unique story to tell, and Masami is no different. She started her first business 22 years ago before eventually selling and starting B1G1 as a global initiative.
Her entrepreneurial journey is truly inspiring and stems from wanting to make a difference and give back to others.
In this episode, Masami discusses the importance of micro-impacts, how letting go can be the way forward, and why enjoyment of what you do is essential to the success of your business.
You can connect with Masami Sato on LinkedIn or head to her website https://www.masamisato.com/.
To find out more about B1G1, click here.
You can connect with our host Trevor Merriden on LinkedIn or Twitter.
We’re often told to be bold and take risks – but how many of us can say we fully think them through first?
Our first guest of 2023 on The Merri-Cast, is the brilliant Ashutosh Garg, who explains why it’s essential to take risks but just as important to have all the facts first.
Ashutosh is the Founder of Equation Coaching and The Brand Called You – a Media Tech global platform that brings you Leadership Lessons, Knowledge, Experience, and Wisdom.
In this extraordinary episode, he shares his incredible wisdom. He explains why you should take risks, why you should have a personal board of advisors, and why it is okay to fail. He also discusses being a goalkeeper for your business and the importance of systems and procedures.
You can connect with Ashutosh Garg and out more about his business on LinkedIn.
To order his latest book 'How to Survive Failure and Come Out Stronger', click here.
You can connect with our host Trevor Merriden on LinkedIn or Twitter.
Welcome to part 2 of our 2-part episode special where we look back at all our incredible guests from 2022 and listen to all our favourite moments so far.
In part 2, highlights are taken from our episodes with Jim James, Robert Clay, Paulina Roach, Jackie Lapin, Bill Sherman, Joel Blake OBE, Surbhi Dedhia, Jasper Steinhausen, Marie-France Samba, and Adam Stott.
We hope you've all enjoyed listening these past 11 months and we thank you all for your continued support.
See you in 2023!
You can connect/get in touch with our host Trevor Merriden in the following ways:
- LinkedIn - Trevor Merriden
- Twitter - @trevormerriden
- Email - trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
Today's episode is part 1 of a 2-part episode special where we'll be looking back and picking out our favourite moments from our incredible guests so far.
In part 1, highlights are taken from our episodes with Steph Taylor, Terri Vincent, Paul Corke, Del Lewis, Michael Moran, Perry Timms, Neeraj Shah, Stijn Smet, Simon Fanshawe, and Cheryl Luzet.
You can connect/get in touch with our host Trevor Merriden in the following ways:
- LinkedIn - Trevor Merriden
- Twitter - @trevormerriden
- Email - trevor.merriden@merribornmedia.co.uk
To become a successful entrepreneur, there is no one ‘right way’ but there are multiple, valuable things you can do to achieve success quicker, or achieve more than you ever imagined.
On today’s episode of The Merri-Cast, we are joined by someone who provides invaluable lessons to help entrepreneurs achieve their goals., who strives off a positive attitude and has true entrepreneurial spirit – the brilliant, Adam Stott.
Adam is the Founder of ‘Big Business Events’ – an incredibly successful company that supports aspiring business owners and already established businesses seeking growth advice.
He is also an entrepreneur, Business Coach, Keynote Speaker, and Host of ‘The Big Business Show’ on YouTube.
In today’s episode, Adam discusses the importance of knowing your numbers, developing a winning mentality, and why you should always be learning from people better than you.
He also shares with us the 6 critical areas you need to get right to grow and run your business, how the story you tell yourself influences your result, and why it’s essential as an entrepreneur to understand the elements of running a business.
This episode is absolutely jam-packed with brilliant advice and lessons inspired by Adam’s experience over the last 14 years, and definitely one that you will not want to miss.
You can connect with Adam Stott on LinkedIn or find out more about his business through his website.
You can connect with our host Trevor Merriden on LinkedIn or Twitter.
Being an entrepreneur means that personal branding is essential…but why?
Well, our latest guest on The Merri-Cast is an expert in this exact topic – in fact, it’s the inspiration behind her entire business.
Joining me on today’s episode is personal branding, visibility, and leadership coach extraordinaire, Marie-France Samba.
Marie-France is also an entrepreneur, mentor, speaker, is incredibly passionate about women empowerment, and has had an extensive career in the press industry.
In 2009, she created her first business, a language academy in Paris, before developing a real passion for women empowerment and starting her coaching business in 2017 - which continues to go from strength to strength.
In this episode, Marie-France talks about the importance of a compelling personal brand and why it is key to any entrepreneur. She also discusses how a spontaneous short speech positively changed her life, why you should act from a place of service, and why you must put your ego aside when listening to your clients.
This episode is jam-packed, and full of inspiring and motivational lessons, suitable for any entrepreneur.
You can connect with Marie-France Samba on LinkedIn or find out more about her business through her website.
You can connect with our host Trevor Merriden on LinkedIn or Twitter.
This week, I am joined by the fantastic Jasper Steinhausen - CEO-adviser, Business Consultant, Speaker, Mentor, and Podcaster.
Jasper is the Founder of Business with Impact, Sustainable Business Advisor and Owner of Steinhausen!, and Owner of Steinhausen Holding IVS.
In this episode, Jasper shares his passion on how to make sustainability profitable and why sustainability is no longer a debate. He also discusses the importance of niche marketing in your business, and the importance of stepping away from negativity.
You can follow and connect with Jasper Steinhausen on LinkedIn and listen to his podcast here.
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Joining me on this week’s episode is the superb Surbhi Dedhia – the Founder and CEO of Digital Genie, Founder of JotMyBio, and host of ‘The Making of a Thought Leader’ podcast.
She originally began her career in the corporate world but after moving from Singapore to Dubai, naturally moved into the world of entrepreneurship. The move opened many avenues and doors to channelise her work and launched the hugely successful company 'Digital Genie' in 2018.
In this episode, she discusses that transition from corporate to entrepreneurship life, succeeding in a new country, and practising what you preach. She also talks about the importance of building and using your connections and why no-one ‘has it right’.
You can follow and connect with Surbhi on Twitter and LinkedIn.
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter and LinkedIn.
When I ask entrepreneurs how they became one, I’m often met with the response ‘it was an accident’, ‘it wasn’t planned’, or ‘I just fell into it’ – it’s how I became an entrepreneur myself and for today's guest, it’s the same for him too.
I’m delighted to announce that on today's episode, we are joined by the brilliant Joel Blake OBE – Entrepreneur, Businessman, Speaker, and Consultant.
He is the Founder of ‘The GFA Exchange' – an award-winning B2B fintech start-up for the financial services sector.
In this episode, Joel discusses becoming an accidental entrepreneur, the importance of embracing your vulnerability, having belief in your own power, and much more! It’s an episode you won’t want to miss.
You can follow and connect with Joel Blake on LinkedIn.
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter and LinkedIn.
I’m thrilled that today’s guest is the fantastic Bill Sherman – COO and Thought Leadership Practice Lead for Thought Leadership Leverage, and co-host of the podcast ‘Leveraging Thought Leadership’.
In this episode, Bill discusses turning your passion into a profession, the importance of clarity, and the key to a strong business partnership.
He also opens up on a major health scare he had which helped him discover how he defines himself, what’s important to him in life and his career, and encouraged him to focus on what really matters.
This is a truly inspiring episode and is also full of tips and advice which is beneficial to any entrepreneur, and one that you really don’t want to miss.
You can follow and connect with Bill Sherman on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-sherman-274a02/
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
Joining me on today's episode of The Merri-Cast is the brilliant Jackie Lapin.
Jackie is the Founder of SpeakerTunity, the Speaker & Leader Resource Company, an author, and a lifelong pioneer and innovator.
Her career has been ground-breaking. She began as one of the first women sportswriters in America, which lead her to create one of the largest and most successful sports, special events, cable TV PR agencies for 20 years with a world class client list.
Over 6 years ago, she founded SpeakerTunity, a speaker and leader resource company which continues to grow from strength to strength.
Jackie is someone very aware of her strengths and what she brings, but there’s also some lessons she’s had to learn along the way.
Listen, stream, and download the episode now using the links below or wherever you download your podcasts.
You can follow Jackie on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackielapin/ or book a call with her at https://calendly.com/jackielapin
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review!
On this week's episode of 'The Merri-Cast', I have the fantastic Paulina Roach joining me.
Paulina is a Business Coach and Mentor at The International Academy of Wealth, and a Facilitator, Speaker, Virtual COO, and Business Consultant at Paulina Roach Consulting.
After 20 years in hospitality and building a reputation for problem-solving, a new experience helped Pauline realise she was something she’d never imagined herself to be – an entrepreneur.
In this episode, she talks about the transformation in her thinking, her passion for problem-solving, the importance of being obsessed with customers, getting clear of your worst-case scenario, and much more!
If you'd like to learn more about Paulina or connect with her, go to:
- https://www.facebook.com/paulina.schumacher
- https://www.facebook.com/groups/moderndayinvestor
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
Don’t forget to subscribe and rate this podcast!
Our guest on today's podcast is Robert Clay - a man full of entrepreneurial energy.
Ideas and answers seem to come to him so naturally. His latest and possibly greatest idea of all, is all about a 628% growth, that's the average exponential growth he achieved among hundreds of his past clients.
He's built various businesses over the years, all with varying success. But 37 years ago, he founded Marketing Wizdom Online Ltd, where he's also an author and mentor to aspiring market leaders.
In this episode, Robert explains how he cast aside worry at a young age, why he only looks forward, and why you should always share your knowledge and expertise.
If you'd like to get in touch with Robert, go to: linkedin.com/in/robertclay
To find out more about Robert's 628% growth club, go to: https://marketingwizdom.com/growth-club
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
Don’t forget to subscribe and rate this podcast!
Joining me on today's episode is the brilliant Jim James, Founding and Managing Director of EASTWEST Public Relations, Author, and Podcast host of 'The UnNoticed Entrepreneur'.
At 27 years old, Jim started his EASTWEST Public Relations at in Singapore and offices of the same agency in China, India, and then the UK.
Jim's experiences mean he knows a thing or two about the risks of being an entrepreneur and the huge rewards it can bring.
In this episode, Jim discusses whether being an entrepreneur is a brave thing to do, climbing his business Everest, the importance of cash flow and more.
To listen to Jim's podcast, go to: https://open.spotify.com/show/5u7ooeQKwSZhMZ3yTmqV8a?si=69e631b9a97a456d
To connect with or find out more about Jim, go to: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jamesjim
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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On today’s episode of ‘The Merri-Cast’, I am joined by the fantastic Cheryl Luzet.
Cheryl is the Founder and CEO of Wagada – a successful results-driven marketing agency which she started up in 2011, over 10 years now.
In this episode, Cheryl discusses what motivated her to start Wagada, the benefits of networking, the importance of hiring people better than you, and why celebrating failure is a good thing.
If you’d like to learn more about Cheryl or connect with her, go to: linkedin.com/in/cherylluzet
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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In today’s episode, I am joined by the brilliant Simon Fanshawe, OBE.
Simon is a Partner at Diversity by Design, an entrepreneur, Board Member and Chairman of various organisations, an Author, Writer, and Broadcaster, and is also an award-winning comedian, so he’s very funny.
In this upcoming episode, Simon discusses why passion can be your worst enemy, why he set up his business ‘Diversity by Design’, his book ‘The Power of Difference’ and much, much more!
If you’d like to learn more about Simon or connect with him, go to: linkedin.com/in/simon-fanshawe-0549a031
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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Joining me on today's episode is the fantastic Stijn Smet.
Stijn is the Managing Director of the 'Academy for Corporate Entrepreneurship' and an innovation expert. His passion for innovation and helping 'intrapreneurs' (entrepreneurs in business) is obvious.
In this insightful conversation, Stijn discusses what makes innovation programs successful, the importance of starting with 'why', knowing when to enable or kill an idea, making fact-based decisions and much more!
If you’d like to learn more about Stijn or connect with him, go to: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stijnsmet/
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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On this week’s episode, I am joined by the brilliant Neeraj Shah.
Neeraj is the Founder of Titan Masterminds and a LinkedIn Coach, Expert, Trainer, and Speaker. He is also a LinkedIn Faculty and Top Mentor for the Global Entrepreneur Platform ‘Genius-U’ so he knows what it means to be successful and an expert in his field.
In this episode, Neeraj discusses how having a purpose gives you courage, the importance of listening to your inner compass, how he built his confidence through building his business, and more.
If you’d like to learn more about Neeraj or connect with him, go to: linkedin.com/in/neerajrshah
You can follow and connect with our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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Today, I am joined by the fantastic Perry Timms - Founder & Chief Energy Officer of PTHR. A global speaker, author of the 2 acclaimed books 'Transformational HR’ and ‘The Energized Workplace’, a 2-time TEDx Speaker and 2nd on HR Magazine’s 2021 Most Influential HR Thinker list - Perry also has bags of value to share on his entrepreneurial journey.
In this episode, Perry discusses finding and knowing your worth in the market, how entrepreneurs can boost their energy, confidence-building skills he personally uses and much more.
If you’d like to learn more about Perry or PTHR, go to: linkedin.com/in/perrytimms or https://www.linkedin.com/company/people-&-transformational-hr-ltd/
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and on LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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In today’s episode, I am joined by the brilliant Michael Moran - Chief Executive and Founder of 10Eighty.
Until he was nearly 60 years old, setting up his own business wasn’t really something that Michael expected to be doing. A decade on, he has overcome many of the challenges of growing and expanding a business. His resilience, strong sense of values and incredible network are lessons to everyone who listens to this candid interview.
If you’d like to learn more about Michael Moran and 10Eighty, go to: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10eighty/mycompany/ or linkedin.com/in/michaeldmoran
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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Today, I am joined by ‘Venturepreneur’, Speaker, Author and Founder of TriClare Business Holdings, Del Lewis.
In this episode, Del discusses taking ‘inspired action’, the importance of understanding what you want to succeed, and the obstacles he overcame to become a hugely successful ‘Ventrepreneur’. With knowledge and experience across the board from the Maritime Industry and Investment Banking to founding and operating numerous businesses, this episode has something for all entrepreneurs and solopreneurs out there.
If you’d like to get in contact with Del or find out more about him or his business, go to https://dellewis.com/ or https://triclareholdings.com/triclare-business-holdings
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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We all like to say that we ‘live in the moment’ but how many of us really practise what we preach? Our latest guest does it better than anyone else we’ve ever met.
Author, speaker, and business owner Paul Corke was only eighteen when he narrowly cheated death in the Hillsborough Disaster. Today he is the Managing Director of Leadership Innovators - an innovative leadership consultancy and the author of four books including ‘Reframe Your Mindset: Redefine Your Success’.
In this remarkable episode, Paul talks about the impact being at Hillsborough had on him, the importance of ‘living in the moment’ and how he manages to approach every single day with a positive mindset.
You can follow Paul Corke on LinkedIn https://uk.linkedin.com/in/paul-corke-59183b49 and on Twitter @CorkePaul. Make sure you check out Paul’s podcast “Reframe Your Mindset for Success’.
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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Today, I am joined by the hugely successful Business Coach Mentor, Facilitator, Trainer, and Public Speaker, Terri Vincent.
In this episode, Terri provides real insight on the importance of being your most authentic self, both professionally and personally. She learnt this the hard way – in this candid interview, she is frank about her mistakes along the way. She explains her journey and how she found her own authenticity.
You can follow Terri Vincent on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/terri.c.vincent, and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/terri-vincent-coach-mentor-trainer-facilitator-speaker-764a5110.
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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Today, I am joined by internationally renowned Digital Product Launch Entrepreneur and podcast host, Steph Taylor. Through her e-books, including ‘The Digital Product Kickstart Kit, ‘Socialette’ podcast, launch plans, online masterclasses, and much more besides, Steph is an expert in everything you need to launch your digital product.
In this episode, however, she talks about her early struggles as an entrepreneur from imposter syndrome and procrastination, to fear of success. Steph also provides us with her backstory and honest insight on how to negotiate these and other rabbit holes and move on to success.
You can follow Steph Taylor on Instagram and Facebook at @stephtaylor.co or head to her website https://stephtaylor.co/#/
You can follow our host Trevor Merriden on Twitter @TrevorMerriden and LinkedIn www.linkedin.com/in/trevormerriden
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In this launch episode, Trevor introduces you to "The Merri-Cast" podcast. He explains his reasons for starting a podcast, why you should have a listen, and what you can expect in future episodes.