40 Minute Mentor

“Never underestimate the power of a rant, if you’re going to do something about it.” In today’s bite-sized 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by fellow podcaster and good friend of JBM, Amardeep Parmar, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of BAE HQ. Amardeep has been on an incredible journey - from being a Tech consultant in 2020, to setting a New Year’s resolution which made him the second fastest writer to gain 50,000 followers on Medium.com. Now, he’s inspiring, connecting and guiding British Asian Entrepreneurs with BAE HQ. Today, Amardeep shared more about his journey and the crucial lessons he has learned along the way, including: ➡️ His traditional journey and accidental entrepreneurship [00:55] ➡️ Questioning your identity as a Founder [04:51] ➡️ A New Year’s resolution turned career [06:26] ➡️ Advice for aspiring writers [08:32] ➡️ How a rant with a friend paved the foundations for BAE HQ [10:05] ➡️ Scaling a not-for-profit and navigating the corporate landscape [12:34] ➡️ Connecting people for mutual success [15:26] ➡️ The secret sauce of community building [16:28] ➡️ A selection of stand out stories from BAE HQ [22:51] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Amardeep: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amardeepsparmar/ ➡️ Find out more about BAE HQ: https://www.thebaehq.com/ ➡️ Listen to the BAE HQ podcast: https://www.thebaehq.com/podcasts ➡️ James Mitra on BAE HQ: https://www.thebaehq.com/podcasts/episode-51-james ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"You can have the best idea in the world with a bad team and you get nowhere, and you can have a really good team with a bad idea and you’ll probably make it into a good idea.” Doctor to Startup Founder... That’s not something we get to say a lot, so buckle in for today's episode! This week’s 40 Minute Mentor is Dr Sonia Szamocki, Founder and CEO of 32Co, the HealthTech revolutionising access to specialised healthcare services, by connecting general clinicians with a network of specialists. Sonia's very impressive journey has taken her from Oxford to a career as a clinician to jumping into the Founder seat, building the future of collaborative healthcare. She has grown 32Co 5x since April last year, and has recently secured £2.36 million in seed funding, led by Balderton Capital. Tune in to today's chat, to find out: ➡️ Podcast recommendation: Black Women Working [00:13] ➡️ Why being a Founder isn’t all that glamorous [05:02] ➡️ Growing up in the Netherlands and becoming a Doctor [06:02] ➡️ 32Co’s origin story [13:10] ➡️ From an idea during Covid to growing a marketplace [22:50] ➡️ Navigating false starts & the importance of a great team [26:18] ➡️ Hiring advice & recruiting your first exec [29:00] ➡️ The importance of getting Co-Founder matching right [36:45] ➡️ Bootstrapping vs VC funding [38:05] ➡️ Healthcare & AI [41:00] ➡️ Audience Question: Why there shouldn’t be more Doctors moving into Founder seats [44:32] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Sonia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-sonia-szamocki-a01790a9/ ➡️ Find out more about 32Co: https://www.32co.com ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"When you’re aligned on vision, values and strategic direction, you can achieve anything…” In this week’s bite-sized startup mentorship episode, we’re joined by Charlene Chen, JBM Board Advisor, COO of AZA Finance and Co-Founder of Operations Nation. Charlene is not only a brilliant COO, but also happens to be our very first 40 Minute Mentor guest, back when we started the podcast in 2019. In today’s episode, you’ll learn more about: ➡️ Charlene’s squiggly career to COO [01:06] ➡️ A full overview of the COO role [03:27] ➡️ The evolution and expansion of the COO role [07:05] ➡️ The essential skills any COO needs [09:26] ➡️ Making the leap from Head of Ops to COO [14:04] ➡️ Common challenges COOs face [16:16] ➡️ Building effective relationships across the C-Suite [22:13] ➡️ Resources any aspiring COO should check out [26:20] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Charlene: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlenechen/ ➡️ Find out more about Operations Nation: https://operationsnation.com/ ➡️ Check out this year’s Ops Fest: https://operationsnation.com/events/international-ops-fest ➡️ Secure your seat at the annual cONference: https://lu.ma/cONference2023 ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"There's some horrible sacrifices in the first few years to get it to a place where it's got to survive..." Today's 40 Minute Mentor epitomises what it means to be Tech for Good. We’re joined by Sanjay Lobo MBE, the Founder & CEO of OnHand - the all-in-one tool to engage your team in volunteering and environmental action. Dubbed the ‘Uber of volunteering’, OnHand lets employees learn and take action on the issues that matter. You may even recognise Sanjay from his recent appearance on BBC's Dragons’ Den, where he successfully secured investment from FOUR dragons. Here’s what we talk about in today’s episode: ➡️ Finding his path to entrepreneurship [04:02] ➡️ Moving from law into tech [06:58] ➡️ How Parkinson's disease became Chapter 1 of the OnHand story [11:05] ➡️ Engaging employees in volunteering and environmental action [13:45] ➡️ The significance of a great team in a scaling business [15:08] ➡️ Managing stress and pressures as a Founder [16:38] ➡️ Business benefits of company-wide volunteering opportunities [22:08] ➡️ Advert: More about JBM [25:36] ➡️ A Behind the Scenes look at Dragons’ Den [27:10] ➡️ Working with the Dragons after the show [29:31] ➡️ Advice for other Founders looking to get on Dragons’ Den [31:13] ➡️ Dealing with increased media attention [32:29] ➡️ Applying to OnHand [35:10] ➡️ Audience Question: Advice for anyone starting their volunteering journey [38:51] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Sanjay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sanjaylobo/ ➡️ Find out more about OnHand: https://www.beonhand.co.uk/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains topics of mental health and suicide attempts, that may be harmful or traumatising to some audiences. If you’re affected by any of the topics discussed, please make sure you reach out to the helplines listed below. ⚠️ Suicide is a major public health problem, with far-reaching social, emotional and economic consequences. According to the World Health Organisation, there are currently more than 700,000 suicides per year worldwide. Following yesterday’s World Suicide Prevention Day and to play our part in breaking the perceived taboo of speaking about suicide, we’re releasing this special episode with clips from our conversation with Clarke Carlisle. Clarke is a former professional footballer, mental health advocate and ambassador for the mental health charity Mind. He has had an illustrious football career, having played for a number of top clubs, including Leeds United, Watford and Burnley, and winning three caps for England under 21s. Alongside all of this success, however, Clarke also had to deal with plenty of hardship, including serious injuries, his battle with depression and attempted suicide. In today’s episode, Clarke shares more about his own experience with depression and suicide and his advice for anyone struggling with their mental health. ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Tune into the full episode with Clarke here: https://jbmc.co.uk/insights/40-minute-mentor/from-the-premier-league-to-mental-health-advocate-with-clarke-carlisle/ ➡️ More about the work Clarke and Carrie are doing: https://www.clarkeandcarrie.com/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“Everything I have done has centred around teams and individuals, and how do you get the most out of them…” Today’s 40 Minute Mentor is the brilliant Catherine Lenson, Angel Investor, Founder, Venture Partner at LocalGlobe and CEO of Andante Advisory. Catherine has had a hugely successful career, having spent her formative years at UBS and becoming the first female Managing Partner at SoftBank. Today, Catherine is the Founder and CEO of Andante Advisory, a boutique consultancy firm which operates as a trusted partner to senior executives and leading organisations on Culture, People and Purpose. She is also a Venture Partner at LocalGlobe, an angel investor in early-stage tech companies across the UK, US and Israel, and is the UK’s first Fair Play facilitator. Tune in to today’s episode to discover: ➡️ Reliving her days when a rogue trader almost brought down UBS [03:32] ➡️ The privilege of entrepreneurship [05:29] ➡️ From her love for music to Cambridge and ending up in London [06:39] ➡️ Scaling from 20 to 500 people in four years [10:04] ➡️ Becoming the first female Managing Partner at SoftBank [13:34] ➡️ Building a portfolio career [16:49] ➡️ Angel Investing and joining LocalGlobe [24:39] ➡️ Common culture mistakes [32:32] ➡️ Fair Play and creating more equality in the household [36:47] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Catherine: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-lenson/ ➡️ Find out more about her work: https://www.catherinelenson.com/ ➡️ Find out more about LocalGlobe: https://localglobe.vc/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“The most impactful piece of advice I got early on in my career was - You need to grow where you're planted.” In today’s bite-sized 40 Minute Mentor episode, we take a deep dive into a core component of any successful startup - the Go-To-Market (GTM) Strategy. To guide us through the essential components of building and executing a GTM strategy, we’re joined by Tarun Gidoomal. Tarun has led some of Europe’s most notable tech Scaleups, including Next Jump, where he led its international expansion to reach £3bn GMV, and more recently, at Ankorstore, where as UK GM he established its footprint in the UK as it became one of Europe’s fastest growing tech unicorns. Today, Tarun shares more about: ➡️ His upbringing and career to date [01:30] ➡️ The fundamentals of a GTM Strategy [03:40] ➡️ Examples of successful GTM Strategies and mistakes made [06:38] ➡️ Getting buy-in across the team [10:31] ➡️ Questions to ask to assess your team culture [12:53] ➡️ The most impactful career advice he’s received [14:37] ➡️ Startup life and dealing with burnout [17:11] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Tarun: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tarungidoomal/ 🤫 P.S - It’s your FINAL chance to vote for us in this year’s Great British Podcast People’s Choice Awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙 ENTRIES CLOSE 5th SEPTEMBER ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"Founders are made to look like superheroes. They get up at 4am, meditate, take ice baths, work 100 hours a week… I think it's a super unhealthy culture." Today's 40 Minute Mentor shines a light on the realities of Founder life, and his passion for reframing how the world sees and perceives credit. We are excited to welcome Tim Chong, Co-Founder and CEO of Yonder, to the podcast. Yonder is on a mission to build a credit experience that empowers young people to live their best lives and build responsible spending habits, at the same time. Tune in to today’s episode to discover: ➡️ The unhealthy culture surrounding Founder life [03:53] ➡️ Growing up around computers and the influence on his tech journey [05:25] ➡️ Exploring the world and creating high impact as a consultant [07:33] ➡️ Pivoting from consultant to Founder [10:17] ➡️ How a revolutionised economy in Kenya started the story of Yonder [15:02] ➡️ How Yonder is supporting young people and their social lives via credit spend [21:35] ➡️ Tuning in to Founder interviews to scope out early stage challenges [26:50] ➡️ How to keep going during an economic downturn [29:57] ➡️ Selling the long-term thesis to win over investors [35:40] ➡️ The significant impact of early hires and Yonder’s culture [39:58] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Tim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-chong/ ➡️ Find out more about Yonder: https://www.yondercard.com/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙(VOTES CLOSE 5th SEPT) ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“The traditional definition (of a Generalist) has been a ‘Jack of all trades’, which often comes with a negative connotation.” In today’s bite-sized 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Milly Tamati to explore the rise of the Generalist. Milly is not only a Generalist, but a Community builder and Founder of Generalist World. Before leaning into all things Generalist, Milly built businesses all over the world, including co-owning a hostel in Thailand, a wine tour in Australia and an illustration agency in the UK. Today, we explore: ➡️ The making of her Generalist skill set [01:33] ➡️ Defining what a Generalist really is [03:53] ➡️ Specialists vs Generalists [05:34] ➡️ Ending the “Jack of all trades” narrative [08:15] ➡️ Framing your Generalist career to employers [09:47] ➡️ The Generalist World community [13:05] ➡️ Quality over quantity in community building [15:43] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Milly: https://www.linkedin.com/in/milly-tamati/ ➡️ Check out Generalist World: https://www.generalist.world/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙 ENTRIES CLOSE 5th SEPTEMBER. ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“We had one month to refinance the business, or lose our home….” Today’s 40 Minute Mentor is Dimple Patel, exited Founder, Advisor and CEO of Trouva - the leading global marketplace for independent boutiques. With roots at Goldman Sachs, Dimple’s story is one of endless resilience, having navigated recessions, a major re-brand that almost cost her her home, a global pandemic and multiple acquisitions, including Made.com’s collapse. In today’s episode, we dive into all of the above, plus: ➡️ Growing up on a Council Estate [05:00] ➡️ Joining Goldman Sachs during a recession and amid mass layoffs [07:12] ➡️ Exploring entrepreneurship as a first-time Founder in a recession [09:38] ➡️ Going from side hustle to full-time Founder [11:47] ➡️ Spotting burnout and the importance of routine rest [14:01] ➡️ Freedom vs Security as a first-time Founder [15:00] ➡️ The decision that almost led to the loss of her house [17:19] ➡️ Exiting her business and navigating what’s next [20:00] ➡️ Making the shift from COO to CEO of Trouva [27:48] ➡️ The collapse of Made.com and leading with kindness [30:24] ➡️ Roulette question: Working as a Venture Partner and the Founders she backs [40:13] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Dimple: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dimple-patel-uk/ ➡️ Find out more about Trouva: https://www.trouva.com/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙(You have until 5th Sept!) ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“If you don't work well with other teams, everyone else's problem will become a product problem.” In today's episode, we’re taking a deep dive into the world of Product… To do so, we’re joined by Product legend, James Routledge, VP of Product at Converge. James has tons of experience, including helping a NASDAQ business go from 100 million to $250 million revenues and working with 400 person Series B businesses. The role of the CPO has evolved significantly over the last few years, so we loved getting a first-hand account of the past, present and future of Product roles, including: ➡️ His own impressive career in Product [01:08] ➡️ The top 3 skills great Product people need [02:59] ➡️ Scope and responsibilities in your product journey [05:42] ➡️ The power of mentorship in Product roles [08:54] ➡️ The evolution of the CPO and putting customers first [12:28] ➡️ Working cross-functionally as a CPO [17:18] ➡️ UK vs USA Product roles [25:49] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesroutledge/ ➡️ Find out more about Converge: https://www.converge.io/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙 ENTRIES CLOSE 5th SEPTEMBER. ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

“So many people are suffering from a lack of knowing who they are and what their worth is, so they downplay and restrict it to a job role.” Welcome back to 40 Minute Mentor, and a brand new series… Kicking off Series 10, we’re joined by one of the most requested guests on the podcast - the brilliant Andy Ayim, MBE. You may have come across Andy through his DE&I work in tech, or his angel investing training programs at the Angel Investing School, which empowered over 350 new angels. Andy has also invested in over 17 Startups himself, including some of which have been featured on this podcast, such as Patch and Unplugged. In today’s episode, we unpack his own journey to entrepreneurship and demystify angel investing once and for all: ➡️ Shaking off imposter syndrome and backing yourself [04:09] ➡️ How growing up in a multicultural melting pot shaped his path [06:34] ➡️ His path to starting the Angel Investing School [10:24] ➡️ Making angel investing more accessible [14:09] ➡️ Who the Angel Investing School is for [16:37] ➡️ The biggest driver of wealth creation and beginning your journey in investing [20:02] ➡️ Andy’s biggest investment mistake [21:39] ➡️ Angel syndicates and investing with as little as 1k [24:30] ➡️ Assessing pitches and controlling your risk [28:31] ➡️ Choosing between Angel or VC investment as a Founder [33:24] ➡️ Receiving an MBE and driving DE&I in the industry [38:07] ➡️ Fundraising advice and common Founder mistakes [41:41] ➡️ Audience Questions: Untapped opportunities and emerging trends [44:06] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Andy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyayim/ ➡️ Sign up to the Angel Investing School: https://angelinvestingschool.com/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙(You have until 5th Sept!) ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"One doesn't leave the best job in the world for anything less than an opportunity that can genuinely, if we're lucky, save the planet." As we’re kicking off Series 10, we’re also introducing our Monday Startup spotlight series. In our first instalment, we’re joined by a familiar face - Marta Krupinska, Co-Founder and CEO of carbon removal startup, CUR8. Marta has previously come on the podcast, in Series 7, when we talked about her Founder journey and her role with Google for Startups - find a link to the episode below. Since then, Marta has jumped back into the Founder seat and chats to us about: ➡️ The opportunity of a lifetime that made her step down from Google for Startups [01:07] ➡️ Returning to the world of entrepreneurship and the privilege it holds [05:40] ➡️ Building with the scientific community [07:45] ➡️ Fundraising as an experienced entrepreneur [10:21] ➡️ Building the future of carbon removals [13:29] ➡️ Joining the CUR8 mission [15:28] ➡️ What we can all do to save the planet [18:26] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Marta: https://www.linkedin.com/in/martakrupinska/ ➡️ Find out more about CUR8: https://cur8.earth/ ➡️ Listen to Marta’s previous 40 Minute Mentor episode: https://jbmc.co.uk/insights/40-minute-mentor/scaling-lessons-with-google-for-startups-uks-marta-krupinska/ 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙 ENTRIES CLOSE 5th SEPTEMBER ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

Successes, mistakes and lessons learned… We cover all of the above and more in our BRAND NEW series of 40 Minute Mentor…coming to a set of headphones near you, next week! Inspiring conversations with category-defining Founders, CxOs and Investors, who have been through it all…the good, the bad and the in between, along the way. Resilience. Angel Investing. Burnout. Saving the planet. Plus, SO much more.... Get a little taster of what's to come this series, in today's trailer. Series 10, we are ready.....are you? 🌟 Make sure you hit the 'subscribe' button, to be the first to know about Episode 1 launching next week!

"She comes to the table with no judgement and all curiosity and allows me to explore in a way that I do my best thinking because I feel safe to do it.” This week is the final episode in our mentorship feature series, and what a four weeks it has been! In this series finale, James and Hannah are joined by the dynamic duo of Tess Cosad and Chloé HC. Tess is the Co-Founder and CEO of Béa Fertility, the ambitious FertilityTech startup, focused on democratising access to safe, affordable fertility treatment. Chloé is an accomplished product leader and coach with over 10 years experience working directly with CEOs and founding teams to shape vision, drive strategy and deliver day to day execution from Seed to Series B. Tess and Chloé have been friends for many years after meeting at University, and although their careers went in different directions, they stay connected with their friendship ultimately evolving into one of mentorship. We can’t wait for you to hear all about their highs and lows, and feel their energy throughout, where we discover: ➡️ From uni friendship to tackling loneliness as a Startup Founder [04:07] ➡️ Hopping between the friend zone and mentor zone [05:36] ➡️ Setting topic boundaries for a smoother mentorship process [08:08] ➡️ The beauty of working in different backgrounds and having different perspectives [10:39] ➡️ Unlocking business decisions as a mentor, from a bench in New York [14:11] ➡️ Putting your ego aside to navigate disagreements [18:15] ➡️ A no-judgement, all-curiosity approach to mentorship [22:11] ➡️ Finding a connection and being challenged in a safe space [29:56] ➡️ How to positively un-couple and move on [34:36] ➡️ Helping you find your voice, without being over-mentored as a female Founder [35:51] ➡️ Assessing the power dynamic and nature of relationship with a prospective mentor [39:20] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Tess: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tess-isabelle-cosad/ ➡️ Connect with Chloe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chlo%C3%A9-hajnal-corob-97a3407b/ ➡️ More about Béa Fertility: https://beafertility.com/ ➡️ More about Resonate coaching: https://resonatecoaching.co/about 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙 ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm

"What I try to do is listen to the problem, understand how it fits stuff I've seen before, then relate how I think it'll play out…” In this week's 40 Minute Mentor episode, we're joined by a mentorship duo connected by their love and passion for the startup world. Peter Nixey - serial entrepreneur and OG of the UK Startup scene, joins us together with his mentee, AJ, who has been the CEO of the invite-only community, Foundrs. Peter founded Clcikpass.com which raised investment from YC and several angels, before selling the company to Yola.com. His most recent ventures include Copyin, a platform for progressional communities built entirely in email and Intentional.io - a day planner that focuses you on managing your time, rather than your tasks. AJ has been the CEO of Foundrs for the past two years and is soon moving on to start his own company that will support others looking to build communities like Foundrs. From structuring sessions with pre-set agendas, to open conversations around personal life challenges, this episode explores the real ins and outs of a solid mentorship relationship, including: ➡️ Evolving from community check-ins to full-scale mentorship [04:25] ➡️ The importance of agendas and time management [06:13] ➡️ The power of pushing back AND being open to feedback, as a mentee [09:06] ➡️ Using previous problems to tackle current challenges [12:50] ➡️ Overlapping topics and progression to propel the mentor relationship [14:39] ➡️ Allowing space for emotionally charged conversations [20:48] ➡️ Opinions vs shared experiences from a serial entrepreneur [23:54] ➡️ From PhD dropout to a mentorship awakening [28:57] ➡️ The significance of community in the Startup world [32:02] ➡️ Providing value from both sides of the mentor relationship [35:09] ➡️ Being a cheerleader and staying inquisitive on your mentorship journey [36:38] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with AJ: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-foundrs/ ➡️ Connect with Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peternixey/ ➡️ More about Foundrs: https://www.foundrs.co/ ➡️ More about Intentional.io: https://intentional.io/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🤫 P.S Has our podcast ever made you feel something? Like properly made you stop and FEEL the feels... Maybe it has opened your eyes to a new industry? Maybe it has inspired you to start your own venture? Or maybe it has you nodding along as you relate to so many of the challenges that our Founders have faced.... 🤝 Connecting, human to human, with our audience is absolutely paramount to our work behind the scenes at 40 Minute Mentor, which is why we would (shamelessly) love to have your vote in this year's Great British Podcast People's Choice awards. 🏆 1. Click here: https://www.britishpodcastawards.com/voting 2. Type in '40 Minute Mentor' 3. Job done ✅ Your nomination would mean the world to us, so thank you in advance! 💙

“You want someone who's lived that same experience, and hopefully they can pass on what worked for them, but also what didn't work for them.” The golden mentorship moments keep on coming as we head into episode two of our new mentorship feature series. This week, James and Hannah are joined by Ashleigh Tennent, Founder of the coaching platform, More Happi and Lisa Rodwell, the CEO of Daye, the company bridging the gender gap in medical research and innovation. Together, the four discuss how to find your perfect match in a mentor and a coach and how to nurture those relationships, including: ➡️ Blossoming from colleagues to mentorship and friendship [04:54] ➡️ The value of trust in building a mentor relationship [07:17] ➡️ The art of not wasting time [09:11] ➡️ Balancing a range of roles, as a mentor [10:38] ➡️ Finding common ground to rocket your relationship [13:47] ➡️ Paying it forward and the benefits of ‘reverse’ mentorship [15:26] ➡️ Respecting busy lifestyles and managing expectations [19:00] ➡️ Navigating conflict and misunderstanding [22:11] ➡️ Using missions or problems to hook in a prospective mentor [27:48] ➡️ Mentor vs Coach, what’s the difference? [29:27] ➡️ Reflections and advice for aspiring mentees and mentors [33:23] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Ashleigh: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleightennent/ ➡️ Connect with Lisa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisarodwell/ ➡️ More about More Happi: https://morehappi.com/ ➡️ More about Daye: https://www.yourdaye.com/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🏆 Want to partner with us? Do you want to get your brand in front of leading Startup Founders, Investors and C-Suite decision-makers, and attract some of the sharpest talent in the Startup/Scaleup scene? Get in touch with our Head of Marketing and Producer, Hannah to find out more about how we can co-produce content that will help you stand out and engage with over 40,000 loyal monthly listeners. You can reach her on hannah@jbmc.co.uk

“Do it because you care. Find out who you are, where you can be most useful, and how you want to go about it, but only do it if you care.” Mentorship can truly change people’s careers and lives. We’re big believers in the power of mentorship, it’s why we started this podcast! In this brand new feature series, we’ll take a deep dive into the different forms and shapes of mentorship and answer some of your most common questions, e.g. How do you approach a mentor? How do you manage the day to day? When do you know it’s time to part ways? And to change things up even more this series, we’re also not just have one but two hosts. For the first time ever, James, JBM Founder and resident 40 Minute Mentor host, will be joined by our Head of Marketing and Podcast Producer, Hannah Urbanek. In our first episode, we’re joined by Varun Vassanth and his mentor, former 40 Minute Mentor and Founder of Patch, Freddie Fforde. We dig deep into their mentorship relationship and uncover: ➡️ Naturally falling into the mentor-mentee relationship [03:54] ➡️ The impact of an informal approach to mentorship [06:12] ➡️ What mentorship can mean to different people [09:09] ➡️ Crafting a virtual board of stellar advisors [12:35] ➡️ Separating mentorship from management and respecting boundaries [14:55] ➡️ Building mutual respect for effective mentorship [17:52] ➡️ Instilling mentorship to drive your company culture [21:50] ➡️ Parting ways [28:53] ➡️ The do’s and don’ts of mentorship [31:40] ➡️ Being selective about the advice you’re giving as a mentor [36:06] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Freddie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/freddiefforde/ ➡️ Connect with Varun: https://www.linkedin.com/in/varunvassanth/ ➡️ More about Patch: https://www.patch.work/ ➡️ Check out Freddie’s previous episode: https://jbmc.co.uk/insights/40-minute-mentor/feature-series-freddie-fforde/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🏆 Want to partner with us? Do you want to get your brand in front of leading Startup Founders, Investors and C-Suite decision-makers, and attract some of the sharpest talent in the Startup/Scaleup scene? Get in touch with our Head of Marketing and Producer, Hannah to find out more about how we can co-produce content that will help you stand out and engage with over 40,000 loyal monthly listeners. You can reach her on hannah@jbmc.co.uk

“If you can be very clear in articulating what you are trying to do, why the world needs it and why you are the best person to work on it, the money will follow.” And just like that, we come to the end of our 40 Minute Mentor VC feature series. BUT, before we kick off our next series, we have one more VC mentorship packed episode in store for you…. Today, we’re joined by Yvonne Bajela, Partner at LocalGlobe and Latitude, and Venture Partner at Impact X Capital. Yvonne talks about her journey from Goldman Sachs to VC, her first investment and the formative influence her father had on her career. Having invested over £200m across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, Yvonne has backed some of the most category-defining Founders, including the teams behind Unicorn InsurTech, Marshmallow and OG FinTech Unicorn, Wise. Tune in to discover: ➡️ The influence her late father had on her career [03:28] ➡️ The success story of her investment in Marshmallow [09:04] ➡️ Local Globe’s investment thesis [13:07] ➡️ Building a founder-investor relationship for the long-haul [14:07] ➡️ Characteristics she looks for in Founders she invests in [16:18] ➡️ Common mistakes she sees Founders make [18:21] ➡️ Closing the funding gap for under-represented Founders [20:58] ➡️ Navigating the current fundraising climate [22:45] ➡️ Building a successful board of advisors [24:57] ➡️ Motherhood and returning to VC [27:28] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Yvonne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonnebajela/ ➡️ More about LocalGlobe: https://localglobe.vc/ ➡️ More about Latitude: https://latitudeventures.vc/ ➡️ More about Impact X Capital: https://www.impactxcapital.com/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🏆 Want to partner with us? Do you want to get your brand in front of leading Startup Founders, Investors and C-Suite decision-makers, and attract some of the sharpest talent in the Startup/Scaleup scene? Get in touch with our Head of Marketing and Producer, Hannah to find out more about how we can co-produce content that will help you stand out and engage with over 40,000 loyal monthly listeners. You can reach her on hannah@jbmc.co.uk

“It’s a really great time if you want to learn how to be a disciplined Investor and to really be able to hunt down the best Founders and best opportunities.” In the final part of our bite-sized VC feature series, Rosie Barnett, Principal at Delin Ventures, talks to us about navigating the current landscape and shares tangible advice for any Founders, looking to fundraise. This episode is jam packed with advice - no matter, if you’re a Founder looking for investment or an aspiring VC, looking to get a foot in the door. Have your notebooks ready and if you haven’t already, make sure you catch up on the previous 3 parts of this feature series. ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ More about Rosie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-barnett-672329134/ ➡️ Check out Delin Ventures: https://www.delinventures.com/ ⭐Enjoyed this episode?⭐️ Keep up to date with all our latest episodes, by hitting the subscribe button on your favourite podcast platform. And for any feedback on what you enjoy the most and ideas on what we can do to make 40 Minute Mentor even better, please leave us a review on https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🏆 Want to partner with us? Do you want to get your brand in front of leading Startup Founders, Investors and C-Suite decision-makers, and attract some of the sharpest talent in the Startup/Scaleup scene? Get in touch with our Head of Marketing and Producer, Hannah to find out more about how we can co-produce content that will help you stand out and engage with over 40,000 loyal monthly listeners. You can reach her on hannah@jbmc.co.uk