40 Minute Mentor

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Nicky Goulimis and Nico Barawid, the Founders of early-stage FinTech Tunic Pay, the only fraud vendor designed specifically for scams. Prior to building Tunic Pay, Nicky scaled Nova Credit, the credit infrastructure and analytics company that enables businesses to grow responsibly by harnessing alternative credit data. And Nico built Casai, which was Latin America's largest short-term rental operator. With so much experience in building successful FinTech ventures, this episode is a great listen for anyone thinking about starting a FinTech, or for anyone currently in the thick of scaling. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ Entrepreneurial traits from an early age [12:00] ➡️ Why FinTech [16:20] ➡️ Key lessons from early ventures [18:30] ➡️ More about today’s sponsors [23:20] ➡️ Building teams without the vanity metrics [26:00] ➡️ Flipping the script on ‘failing’ [29:00] ➡️ The future of Tunic Pay [32:30] ➡️ Taking the time to find investors [34:40] ➡️ Using AI in startups [39:00] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ Connect with Nicky: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickygoulimis?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ Connect with Nico: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicobarawid?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ More about Tunic Pay: https://www.tunicpay.com/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Sho Sugihara: Financial Inclusion & Finding Your Purpose As A Founder Avion Gray: Raising the largest pre-seed round as a female Founder in EuropeDr Ben Maruthappu: Saving the UK Government £1 million every day by building Cera – the UK’s largest HealthTech Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Dr Ben Maruthappu, Founder and CEO of Cera - the UK’s largest HealthTech and one of the fastest-growing startups in Europe. We’ve all come across the headline of increasing pressures on the NHS and especially hospitals. Cera is revolutionising Healthcare, using technology and AI to shift care from hospitalisation to patients’ homes, creating a more sustainable model for an ageing population. In today’s episode, you’ll hear all about Cera’s origin story, how they have implemented AI so early on and why they’re still just scratching the surface of what’s possible within Healthcare. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ From Medicine to Entrepreneur [04:45] ➡️ Innovation within the NHS & common misconceptions [08:30] ➡️ The personal origin story behind Cera [12:30] ➡️ Early challenges [17:00] ➡️ More about today’s sponsors [21:50] ➡️ Leveraging AI in Healthcare [23:15] ➡️ Getting more people interested in a career in care [28:30] ➡️ The importance of getting hiring right [33:00] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mahibenmaruthappu?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ More about Cera: https://ceracare.co.uk/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Dr Sonia Szamocki: The Future of Collaborative Healthcare with 32Co James Collier: How modern diets are failing us and Huel’s incredible growth journey Where Are They Now: A Lesson in Resilience & Pivoting with James Lo, Co-Founder of Ethos Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by James Collier, a registered Nutritionist, Co-Founder of Huel and author of his brand new book, ‘Well Fed: How modern diets are failing us (and what we can do about it)’’. In today’s episode, you’ll hear about Huel’s growth journey, James’ new book and plenty of simple nutrition advice for you to implement in your day-to-day, no matter how busy you are. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ From bodybuilding to nutrition [03:30] ➡️ Starting & growing Huel [09:00] ➡️ Health challenges & bouncing back [18:00] ➡️ More about today’s sponsors [24:20] ➡️ Five pillars of nutrition & the benefits of eating together [25:00] ➡️ Debunking diet myths [34:00] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ Connect with James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescollierrnutr/?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ More about Huel: https://huel.com/ ✨ Grab your copy of ‘Well Fed’: https://harpercollins.co.uk/products/well-fed-how-modern-diets-are-failing-us-and-what-we-can-do-about-it-james-collier?variant=53486729855355 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Rhiannon Lambert: The truth about diets & nutrition advice for busy execs Dr Rupy Aujla: The accidental business that helps millions of people eat healthier every day Vivien Wong: Building Little Moons from a family business to a viral global brand Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor bonus episode, we’re introducing our brand new partnership with Ethos, the next-generation expert network using AI to match industry leaders with earning opportunities. Tune in to find out why we decided to partner with Ethos and more about what James Lo is building, who it is for and why this is such an exciting opportunity for experts. Plus, there’s a special offer up for grabs for you, so you really don’t want to miss it! 🔍 Find out more: ✨ More about Ethos: https://www.askethos.com/ ✨ Connect with James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yfjameslo?originalSubdomain=uk 🎧 You may also enjoy: James Lo: From protesting on the streets of Hong Kong to raising £1.5m pre-seed for Mana Vivien Wong: Building Little Moons from a family business to a viral global brand Zeynep Yavuz: Investing in FinTech, Crypto & Emerging Markets with General Catalyst Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Vivien Wong, Co-Founder of Little Moons, the popular mochi ice cream brand. Vivien started her career in banking before spotting an opportunity in 2010 to bring mochi ice cream to Europe with her brother Howard. Fast-forward to today: Little Moons is a viral brand which launched in big retail brands in the UK and internationally, and has a team of over 200. Tune into this episode to learn about Vivien’s journey from the early days of building Little Moons at the family kitchen table to the global brand it has become today. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ The origin of Little Moons [08:00] ➡️ Launching into retail [15:00] ➡️ Tips for entering international markets [19:40] ➡️ Find out more about today’s sponsor [21:00] ➡️ Going viral on TikTok [22:00] ➡️ The biggest leadership lessons [28:30] ➡️ Hiring advice [32:00] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ Connect with Vivien: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vivien-wong-07804123?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ More about Little Moons: https://littlemoons.com/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Adrienne Adhami: How to make decisions in a world of endless choice Simmy Dhillon: From Google to building the fastest growing healthy meal subscription business with Simmer Deirdre O’Neill: Breaking taboos and transforming women’s health with Hertility Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Rafel Jorda Siquier, Founder and CEO of Open Cosmos, the UK-based satellite company on a mission to monitor and combat climate change. Founded in 2015, Open Cosmos delivered its first satellite in record time with a team of just five people. Since then, the business has scaled to over €100 million in satellite contracts, a team of over 130 employees in Spain, Portugal, Greece and the UK, and $50 million in Series B funding from leading Investors. In today’s episode, you’ll find out more about Rafel’s journey into entrepreneurship, lessons from scaling such a successful business and the important role of satellites in combatting climate change. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ A surprising route into aerospace engineering [03:15] ➡️ The origin story of Open Cosmos [07:30] ➡️ The huge impact of data [11:30] ➡️ The decision not to fundraise straight away [14:15] ➡️ More about today’s episode sponsors [18:30] ➡️ Scaling the team & attracting high-performers [23:40] ➡️ Spotting great talent & Rafel’s secret weapon [31:30] ➡️ Using data to tackle climate change [39:50] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ Connect with Rafel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafaeljorda?originalSubdomain=uk ✨ More about Open Cosmos: https://www.open-cosmos.com/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Steve Etherton: Building the NASA of the Ocean with DEEP Pierre Paslier: Making Packaging Disappear with Earthshot Prize Winners Nopla Adrienne Adhami: How to make decisions in a world of endless choice Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To kick off 40 Minute Mentor’s Season 13, we’re joined by Adrienne Adhami, leading wellbeing coach, podcast host and author. Listed as one of the ‘Top 25 Black Entrepreneurs to watch’ by HSBC and UKBBS, Adrienne is a trailblazer inspiring individuals and organisations to reach their full potential. In today’s episode, we won’t just explore Adrienne’s incredible career to date but also discuss her latest book ‘Decision That Matter’ in detail. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ The power of storytelling [04:50] ➡️ Career milestones and pivots [12:00] ➡️ Her new book: Decisions That Matter [21:20] ➡️ Find out more about today’s sponsor [24:40] ➡️ Understanding & unblocking analysis paralysis [25:40] ➡️ Intentional decision making [27:30] ➡️ Overcoming procrastination [34:15] ➡️ Redefining success for every season [41:20] 🔍 Find out more: ✨ More about Adrienne: https://adrienneadhami.com/ ✨ Get a copy of “Decisions That Matter”: https://www.penguin.co.uk/books/460246/decisions-that-matter-by-adhami-adrienne/9781529925494 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by Capsule, the neo-broker powered by cutting-edge API technology, redefining insurance for high-growth scaling businesses. Capsule streamlines the insurance process, removing manual hassle and delivering tailored solutions that evolve with your business. If you’re a venture-backed startup looking to outsource the buying and management of your insurance, head over to www.capsulecover.com to find out more. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Raj Kaur Khaira: How ethical AI will change the world Helen Tupper: Building a squiggly career Elizabeth Uviebinené: Building the Headspace for Journaling Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of launching Season 13 of 40 Minute Mentor next week, we thought we'd give you a preview of some of the pocket-sized mentorship you have to look forward to. Haven't subscribed yet? Make sure you do so now to be the first to hear about our next episode launching! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, our final episode of our VC feature series, we’re joined by Pooja Sikka, General Partner at KHP Ventures. KHP Ventures is a collaboration between King’s College London, King’s College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, and Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. The fund offers equity investments with Healthcare expertise for groundbreaking MedTech and digital startups. In today’s episode, you’ll find out more about Pooja’s squiggly career into Venture, and KHP’s brand new mental health immersion programme. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ A career in Healthcare [04:00] ➡️ Pooja’s squiggly journey into Venture [08:30] ➡️ Opportunities in Healthcare [14:35] ➡️ Building strong relationships with Founders [20:00] ➡️ The crucial skill of spotting talent [25:00] ➡️ Launching a new Mental Health fund [30:00] ➡️ Advice for Mental Health startup Founders [38:00] ➡️ The importance of authenticity in pitching [44:00] ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Vegard Medbø: Building a portfolio valued at $4.8B with Antler George Robson: Becoming a Partner at Sequoia at the age of 25 Molly Alter: Starting early in VC & building a transatlantic focus in vertical AI with Northzone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Vegard Medbø, Co-Founder and COO at Antler, the global early-stage fund helping entrepreneurs go from zero to one. Before founding Antler, Vegard spent his early career in the Coastal Ranger Command of the Norwegian Armed Forces and at McKinsey, where he worked with the world’s top energy companies, helping them apply machine learning to renewable and non-renewable energy. Since founding Antler, the team have invested in over 1,000 companies addressing meaningful challenges and opportunities across six continents. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ Lessons from the Military [04:00] ➡️ The beginnings of Antler [09:00] ➡️ More about Antler’s successful portfolio [12:00] ➡️ Lessons from the beginning of Antler that still hold true today [15:00] ➡️ The perfect Founder for Antler [18:00] ➡️ International expansions [20:00] ➡️ Why you need optimism as a Founder [25:00] ➡️ Predictions for the next decade in Tech [31:30] ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Bonus: Corinne Thompson on preparing for your fundraise George Robson: Becoming a Partner at Sequoia at the age of 25 Molly Alter: Starting early in VC & building a transatlantic focus in vertical AI with Northzone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this final 40 Minute Mentor VC bonus episode, we’re joined by Corinne Thompson, Founder of Ecap Financial. Today’s episode follows a slightly different format, with Corinne sharing a quick-fire checklist for you next fundraise. From the key metrics and data points investors really care about, to the biggest red flags and crucial questions Founders should ask their potential investor - this episode will equip you with everything you need to keep in mind as you’re raising your next round. 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Bonus: Corinne Thompson on preparing for your fundraise George Robson: Becoming a Partner at Sequoia at the age of 25 Molly Alter: Starting early in VC & building a transatlantic focus in vertical AI with Northzone Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by George Robson, Partner at Sequoia, the fund helping daring Founders build legendary companies from idea to IPO and beyond. From Investment Banking to Revolut and becoming a Partner at Sequoia at the age of 25, George’s CV is nothing but impressive and minutes into today’s episode, you’ll understand where his incredible drive and entrepreneurialism comes from. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ The impact of education [03:30] ➡️ Foundations in Investment Banking [08:30] ➡️ Joining Revolut & lessons learned [16:00] ➡️ Navigating cultural fit [18:00] ➡️ More about our sponsors [20:20] ➡️ Joining Sequoia & investment approach [21:45] ➡️ What makes a great Founder [28:30] ➡️ Common mistakes during pitches [31:30] ➡️ Sequoia’s Arc Program [33:45] ➡️ The future of VC & the European ecosystem [36:00] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with George here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgerobson/ ➡️ Learn more about Sequoia: https://www.sequoiacap.com/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Molly Alter: Starting early in VC & building a transatlantic focus in vertical AI with Northzone Dinika Mahtani: From Operator at Uber to backing early-stage startups at Cherry Ventures Corinne Thompson: Preparing for your fundraise Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This 40 Minute Mentor VC feature season, we’re bringing you a special three-part bonus feature, brought to you by Ecap Financial and their Founder, Corinne Thompson. In today’s episode, Corinne shares helpful advice for setting up your company and team for an exit. We’ll discuss: ✅ What it actually means to “set up for an exit” as a Founder ✅ When you should start thinking about preparing for an exit ✅ The do’s and don’ts of navigating the transition 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Bonus: Corinne Thompson on preparing for your fundraise Molly Alter: Starting early in VC & building a transatlantic focus in vertical AI with Northzone Dinika Mahtani: From Operator at Uber to backing early-stage startups at Cherry Ventures Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Molly Alter, Partner at Northzone, the multi-stage fund partnering with Founders from Seed to Growth, across Europe and the US. Molly started her career in VC in 2016, straight out of Harvard University. Since then, Molly has worked with some of the biggest funds in the industry, including Insight Partners and Index Ventures. Now, at Northzone and back in New York, Molly focuses on vertical SaaS and AI, across early and growth stages. In today’s episode, we dive into her career in VC and her transatlantic focus. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ A foundation in theatre & first entrepreneurial ventures [04:00] ➡️ Joining VC early on [09:00] ➡️ Characteristics needed in VC [14:45] ➡️ Advice for getting into VC [20:00] ➡️ Why Northzone [21:30] ➡️ Focusing on SaaS & AI [24:00] ➡️ Advice for Founders currently fundraising [28:30] ➡️ US vs European market [32:00] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Molly here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/molly-alter-3ab1159a/ ➡️ Learn more about Northzone: https://northzone.com/ 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Dinika Mahtani: From Operator at Uber to backing early-stage startups at Cherry Ventures Nicolas d’Audiffret: How To Build A $2 Billion Unicorn In Under 3 Years Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This 40 Minute Mentor VC feature season, we’re bringing you a special 3-part bonus feature, brought to you by Ecap Financial and their Founder, Corinne Thompson. In today’s episode, Corinne helps us take it all the way back to the beginning of the fundraising journey. We’ll discuss: ✅ The key steps you need to follow before your investor meeting ✅ Figuring out when the time is right to start fundraising ✅ What to keep in mind when choosing between VCs, angels or alternative funding routes ✅ How to mentally prepare for the fundraising journey ahead 📣Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Dinika Mahtani: From Operator at Uber to backing early-stage startups at Cherry Ventures From Operator To VC – Busting Industry Myths with Rosie Barnett, Principal at Delin Ventures Catherine Lenson: From Being The First Female Managing Partner at SoftBank to Building a Portfolio Career Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re joined by Dinika Mahtani, Partner at Cherry Ventures, the early-stage VC firm led by a team of entrepreneurs with experience building fast-scaling companies, such as Zalando and Spotify. Prior to her move into VC, Dinika was an Operator, working across Banking, UberEats EMEA and Uber’s JUMP e-bike product in the UK. She also served as Director of Finance and Operations at ClimateTech startup, Kaluza. Today, we take a trip back down memory lane, discussing those fundamental years as an Operator and how she made the move into VC. It’s a conversation filled with mentorship for Founders and anyone considering the VC route as their next career step. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ From Banking to Uber [06:30] ➡️ Key lessons from her time at Uber [11:30] ➡️ Moving into VC [15:30] ➡️ More about today’s sponsor [23:30] ➡️ Looking for raw ambition [24:30] ➡️ Going from Principal to Partner [27:30] ➡️ Promoting and hiring more diverse talent [30:00] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Dinika here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dinika-mahtani-0a2494158/ ➡️ Learn more about Cherry Ventures: https://cherry.vc/ 📣 Learn more about today’s sponsor: Today’s episode is sponsored by ECAP Financial, your trusted partner for fractional CFO services for companies looking to fundraise or go through an M&A process. Whether you’re a Founder looking to raise investment, planning for an exit, or navigating financial challenges, ECAP Financial, led by the brilliant Corinne Thompson, helps scaleups secure the right funding at the right time. 💡 Check out their latest fundraising course here: https://fundraising-academy2.teachable.com/p/fundraising-academy 💡 Don’t forget to follow them on YouTube for even more advice: https://www.youtube.com/@ecapfinancial/videos ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Masha Bucher: Harnessing the power of storytelling in VC with Day One Ventures From Operator To VC – Busting Industry Myths with Rosie Barnett, Principal at Delin Ventures VC & Fundraising Advice – Series 6 Best Bits Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re revisiting our popular episode with Ian Hogarth, Co-Founder and former CEO of Songkick, Partner at Plural Platform and Chair of the UK AI Safety Institute. In this episode, we talk about his rollercoaster ride with Songkick and how mentorship got him through the worst days, and what led him to building Plural, an early-stage platform dedicated to investing in Europe’s next-generation of tech companies with global ambitions. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ Lessons from being a first-time CEO [11:00] ➡️ Why some hires can completely change your business [14:30] ➡️ Grief & stepping away from Songkick [19:15] ➡️ Jumping back into the Founder seat with Plural [24:40] ➡️ Why Plural isn’t following the traditional VC model [28:15] ➡️ What it takes to be an incredible Founder [32:50] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Ian here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianhogarth/ ➡️ Learn more about Plural: https://pluralplatform.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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Michelle You: From Exiting Songkick to tackling the climate crisis Sophie Adelman: Creating access to opportunities for everyone Eleanor Kaye: Making VC more accessible Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re revisiting our popular episode with the brilliant Alice Bentinck MBE, Co-Founder of Entrepreneur First and author of “How to be a Founder”. Frustrated by a business landscape that found latent talent shackled by predetermined career paths, Alice set out to challenge cultural norms when she co-founded Entrepreneur First in 2011 – an accelerator that celebrates and invests in talented, ambitious individuals and looks to match-make Co-Founders to launch successful businesses. In this episode, Alice shares everything from her early career to challenging the norms of entrepreneurship and backing diverse talent. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ The Birth of Entrepreneur First - [04:50] ➡️ Overcoming early challenges & building for growth [07:50] ➡️ Investing in Talent [17:00] ➡️ The Co-Founder dynamic [25:00] ➡️ Diversity & Inclusion in Tech [28:45] ➡️ Building Diverse Teams [32:30] ➡️ The importance of mentorship [42:00] ⛳ Helpful links: ➡️ Connect with Alice here: LinkedIn ➡️ Learn more about Entrepreneur First: https://www.joinef.com/ ➡️ Get a copy of Alice’s book: https://www.bloomsbury.com/uk/how-to-be-a-founder-9781399411608/ ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: Amali de Alwis: Embracing a non-linear career Gary Izunwa: Driving Social Mobility through Referrals with Tangent Dr Anne-Marie Imafidon: Changing the face of STEM Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The hiring market has seen some major shifts over the past few years, and as businesses continue to navigate economic changes, evolving workplace trends, and shifting candidate expectations, staying ahead of these trends has never been more important, than in 2025. In today’s 40 Minute Mentor episode, we’re diving deep into the key hiring and talent trends for the year ahead. You’ll hear from some of the JBM and the wider Amplified People Group teams who share their insights on how the Hiring and Talent market is shaping up for the year. We’ll be answering questions like: ➡️ How is the hiring market shaping up compared to 2024? ➡️ What new trends are we seeing, and what are candidates and clients asking more about? ➡️ What are our top predictions for hiring in 2025? Whether you're a Founder planning your next big hire, a talent leader navigating an evolving workforce, or a job seeker looking to understand the market, this episode is packed with insights to help you stay ahead. ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: How to successfully build a fractional career with Ben Sanders From layoffs to lemonade with Abadesi Osunsade The future of flexible work with Molly Johnson-Jones Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

How are your New Year’s resolutions coming along? Research shows that most of us drop our New Year’s resolutions by the second Friday in January. As we’re approaching the end of January, we’re resharing some of the best wellbeing and healthy habits advice we’ve received on the podcast from subject matter experts: Dr Rupy Aujla, Founder of The Doctor’s Kitchen Rhiannon Lambert, leading Nutritionist and best-selling author Nikki Wicks, CEO of global fitness brand, The Body Coach Lottie Whyte, Founder of Myomaster, a pioneer in recovery and wellness solutions. 📚 Episode Chapters: ➡️ Building better habits through nutrition [02:00] ➡️ What a well-balanced diet actually looks like [10:40] ➡️ Balancing a busy lifestyle & exercising [16:30] ➡️ Building simple habits first [19:15] ➡️ Nurturing a healthy relationship with food [22:15] ➡️ The truth behind diets [24:30] ➡️ Costs of eating healthier [34:45] ⭐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 at https://ratethispodcast.com/40mm 🎧 You may also enjoy: The accidental business that helps millions of people eat healthier every day From the kitchen table to £100k investment on Dragons Den with MyoMaster The Truth About Diets & Nutrition Advice For Busy Execs Building An Accidental Global Fitness Brand Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices