Evolve to Succeed

In this captivating episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, host Warren Munson reconnects with returning guests Julie and Sally, fresh from their epic adventure of rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. After 59 grueling days at sea, the team successfully completed their journey from La Gomera to Antigua aboard the Ebb & Flow. Julie and Sally share vivid tales of their extreme challenge, from breathtaking wildlife encounters to the relentless mental and physical tests they faced. This episode is a moving testament to courage, camaraderie, and the power of human determination. Tune in and be inspired! This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Triumphant Arrival: The powerful emotions of crossing the finish line to a cheering crowd and reuniting with loved ones. Surprises & Challenges: Navigating unexpected battery issues, hand steering for hours, and battling huge storms. Life at Sea: Their daily routines, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and how they coped with the isolation and vastness of the ocean. Wildlife Wonders: Magical moments with whales, playful dolphins, and even a curious marlin! Team Dynamics: Insights into working as a team of three, including how they supported one another during tough times. Mind Over Matter: The mental strength and resilience it took to row day after day, and how they now see challenges in everyday life differently. Personal Growth: Reflections on how this experience changed their perspectives and their lives. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey Begins: Crossing the Atlantic 06:02 - Surprises and Challenges at Sea 10:13 - Daily Life on the Ocean 14:39 - Overcoming Fears and Isolation 20:02 - Mental Resilience and Personal Growth 28:31 - Highlights and Pinnacle Moments 29:07 - Surfing the Waves of Adventure 30:08 - Wild Encounters: Whales and Wildlife 31:13 - The Thrill of the Ocean: Sounds and Sights 32:10 - Team Dynamics: Bonding Through Challenges 33:42 - Resilience and Problem Solving at Sea 39:00 - Physical Challenges and Recovery 43:14 - Adjusting to Life After the Ocean 46:35 - Future Adventures: What's Next?

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Emma Burke, co-founder of Laceeze, shares her entrepreneurial journey from the inception of her innovative shoelace solution, to her recent experience on Dragon's Den. Emma discusses the challenges and successes of developing her product, transitioning to a full-time commitment, and the importance of marketing strategies and brand ambassadors in driving growth. Emma shares her journey on Dragon's Den, the challenges and opportunities that arose from her appearance, and how it impacted her brand. She discusses the intense experience of pitching, the immediate spike in brand awareness following the show, and the subsequent growth and challenges in her business. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Transitioning from a side project to a full-time business. Product development. Brand ambassador programs. Utilising platforms like Amazon. Emma’s Dragon's Den experience. Understanding your audience. Building a brand community. Utilising freelancers. New marketing platforms like TikTok. Balancing personal life with business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laceeze 03:13 From Concept to Product 05:46 Transitioning to Full-Time 08:48 Product Development and Expansion 12:05 Marketing Strategies and Brand Growth 15:10 Funding and Financial Growth 17:47 The Dragon's Den Experience 21:07 Preparing for the Pitch 27:56 The Intensity of Pitching on Dragon's Den 30:58 The Impact of Dragon's Den on Brand Awareness 34:45 Post-Show Opportunities and Challenges 39:34 Embracing New Marketing Trends 41:02 Personal Reflections 46:28 Balancing Business with Personal Life 48:27 Defining Personal Success

On the 250th episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Anthony Woodhouse, Chairman of Hall & Woodhouse, shares insights into the legacy of the family-owned brewery and pub company, which has been in operation since 1777. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a family business over generations, the importance of reinvestment in the company and community, and the balance between tradition and innovation in the hospitality sector. Anthony emphasises the need for educating future generations about the business's values and the impact of structural changes in the industry. Anthony discusses the evolution of pub culture, emphasising the changing demographics of pub-goers. He also addresses the significance of succession planning in family businesses, sharing insights on legacy and the need for a forward-looking mindset. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… The importance of being a custodian of the family business. How reinvestment leads to longevity. Community impact over shareholder profits. Educating the next generation. Balancing tradition with innovation. Headwinds in the hospitality sector. Changes in pub culture and demographics. Moral decisions leading to better commercial outcomes. Trusting the next generation. Engagement with the community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hall & Woodhouse 02:56 Custodians of a Legacy 05:58 Longevity in Family Businesses 09:04 Reinvestment and Community Impact 11:56 Educating Future Generations 15:13 Balancing Tradition with Innovation 18:13 Headwinds in the Hospitality Sector 26:10 Pub Culture and Gender Dynamics 31:27 The Brewing Legacy 36:15 Succession Planning 39:18 Mindset Shift 46:08 Personal Definition of Success

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Jo and Oscar Hjälmås discuss their journey as co-owners of Baggette + Co., a financial services firm. They share insights on their management buyout experience, the importance of maintaining company culture during rapid growth, and the strategies they implemented to ensure effective communication and team engagement. In this engaging conversation, Jo and Oscar discuss the delicate balance between delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring financial viability in their business. They share insights on navigating personal and professional boundaries while working together as a couple, the impact of family dynamics on their business, and their definitions of success both personally and professionally. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Baggette + Co. 03:10 The Journey to Business Ownership 05:53 Navigating Roles and Responsibilities 09:03 Management Buyout 11:58 Growth and Expansion 14:54 Maintaining Company Culture During Growth 17:49 Communication and Team Engagement 20:56 Client-Centric Business Approach 31:35 Balancing Customer Delight and Financial Responsibility 36:30 Navigating Personal and Professional Boundaries 42:31 Family Dynamics on Business 46:10 Defining Success: Business and Personal Aspirations

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Louise Southam of Beyond Belief Couching shares her journey from a successful career in recruitment to becoming a leadership and business coach. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to pursue her passion for coaching, the challenges she faced as a single mother and the personal growth she experienced during her journey. Louise emphasises the importance of resilience, manifestation and the power of positive thinking, as well as practical tools like journaling to facilitate self-discovery and empowerment. Her story is one of courage, determination, and the belief that we can shape our own destinies. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Transitioning from recruitment to coaching. Balancing motherhood and career aspirations. Taking leaps of faith. How personal challenges can shape resilience and determination. The importance of manifestation in creating a desired life. Journaling. Overcoming fears of public speaking. The importance of networking and asking for help. Balancing masculine and feminine energies in leadership. Values in organisations. One-on-one coaching. Creating a supportive work environment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 03:07 From Recruitment to Coaching 06:07 Motherhood and Career Aspirations 08:49 The Leap of Faith 11:59 Divorce and Self-Discovery 15:11 Manifestation and the Power of Positive Thinking 18:05 Journaling 21:05 Finding Confidence Through Public Speaking 24:01 Building a Coaching Business 26:17 The Power of Helping Others 28:50 Leadership Challenges 30:36 Heart-Centered Leadership and Generational Shifts 32:08 Creating a Supportive Work Environment 35:51 Masculine and Feminine Energy in Leadership 36:43 The Importance of Values in Organisations 40:45 One-on-One Coaching 45:54 Personal Growth and Inner Happiness 49:19 Quickfire Questions

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Cassidy Macken shares her inspiring journey of starting Cassidy's Beauty Academy. From her early passion for beauty to the challenges of running a business while raising children, Cassidy discusses the importance of education in the beauty industry and her drive to fill the gaps she identified. She also opens up about her experience with ADHD and how it influences her approach to business. Cassidy emphasises the significance of securing funding and overcoming fears in the entrepreneurial journey, providing valuable insights for aspiring business owners. Cassidy shares her journey of entrepreneurship, discussing the nuances of good and bad debt, the challenges of securing funding, and her experiences as a young mother balancing family and career. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Cassidy's journey in the beauty industry at a young age. Balancing motherhood and running a business. Education in the beauty industry. ADHD in business. Stepping out of comfort zones. Adapting to industry trends. Understanding the difference between good and bad debt. Securing funding. Finding the right business location. Having a clear vision for business growth. Taking risks when young. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:03 Inspiration Behind Cassidy's Beauty Academy 10:16 From Beauty to Education 20:02 Navigating the Competitive Beauty Industry 22:02 ADHD in Business 27:49 Securing Startup Funding 28:20 Good Debt vs. Bad Debt 29:51 The Journey to Securing Funding 32:53 Finding the Right Business Location 34:27 Resilience in Business 37:40 Balancing Motherhood and Business 40:05 Vision and Goals for the Business 42:17 Staying Focused on Your Goals 47:11 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 55:32 Defining Personal Success

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Brendan Hall shares his experiences leading a team in the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race. He discusses the challenges of managing a diverse group of sailors, the emotional realities of leadership, and the importance of consistency and autonomy in team dynamics. Brendan reflects on his early leadership challenges, the pressure of performance, and the critical lesson that a leader's mood can significantly impact the team's morale. He discusses the challenges of leading under pressure during a dangerous sailing race, highlighting the need for transparency and psychological safety. Brendan reflects on the emotional toll of leadership decisions and the lessons learned from navigating crises. He also offers insights on creating high-performing teams and the challenges of transitioning to life after such a significant achievement. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:37 Clipper Yacht Race 04:51 Team Dynamics and Leadership Challenges 06:32 Realities of Leadership 09:03 Early Leadership Challenges 15:37 Consistency in Leadership 18:32 Team Autonomy 19:54 The Evolution of Leadership 24:37 Dealing with Pressure 30:28 Resilience in Crisis: A Leadership Test 36:24 Creating High-Performing Teams 37:31 Life After the Race

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Ryan Bransome shares his unique journey from a local government employee to a professional butler, and eventually the founder of U-Crew. He discusses the challenges he faced, including mental health struggles and the lessons learned from high net worth individuals. Ryan reflects on the demanding nature of being a butler, the insights gained from working with successful people, and the decision to transition into entrepreneurship. Ryan emphasises the importance of asking for support, and his aspirations for the future of U-Crew and beyond. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:54 From Local Government to Butler Life 06:44 Mental Health 09:55 The Transition to Butler Profession 11:51 Experiences in the Butler World 15:10 Lessons from High Net Worth Individuals 18:41 Risk, Reward, and Business Insights 22:08 Extreme Situations as a Butler 24:09 Deciding to Start U-Crew 26:38 Recruitment Challenges During COVID 31:22 The Funding Journey 37:44 Building a Network 43:28 Future Aspirations 45:31 Personal Reflections

Summary On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Simon White shares his remarkable journey from leaving school at 16 to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the IT industry. He discusses his early career, the challenges of building his company Enhance, and the pivotal moments that led to a management buyout. Simon reflects on the growth of his business, historical moments such as the turning of the millennium, and the transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, emphasising the importance of legacy and team in his entrepreneurial journey. Simon delves into the complexities of business transitions, particularly focusing on the journey of moving from ownership to a more advisory role. They discuss the importance of embracing technology, especially AI, as a tool for growth and efficiency in business operations. The conversation also touches on happiness and fulfillment in one's career, emphasising the need for balance and the pursuit of passion in professional endeavors. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Simon White's journey into IT from a young age. Combining business and technology. Management buyouts. Strategic planning when growing a business. Transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust. Surrounding yourself with capable people. The importance of mentorship. The long-term implications of business transitions. The importance of growth in business. Happiness and contentment are key to success. Finding the right time to step back from your business. Embracing technology such as to solve business problems. Personal fulfillment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:09 Early Career and Entry into IT 05:54 Building Enhance and the Management Buyout 13:29 Challenges and Growth 21:01 Mentorship 27:07 The Transition to Employee Ownership Trust 34:32 Navigating Business Transitions 39:01 AI in Business 46:59 Embracing AI 50:40 Success and Happiness

Summary On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed podcast, Lee Butler from Town & Country Communications shares his journey from initially not considering joining the family business to becoming a key player in its evolution. He discusses the challenges of working with family, the importance of adapting to industry changes, and the significance of building strong client relationships. The conversation also touches on the vision for the future of the business and the significance of family relationships, particularly in the context of parenthood and personal success. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Lee Butler's initial journey into the family business. Balancing family dynamics with business relationships. The evolution of service in the communications sector. Adapting to technological changes. The importance of building strong client relationships. Transitioning ownership in a family business. The importance of having fun is essential in relationships and business. The value of patience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Town & Country Communications 00:58 Lee's Journey into the Family Business 02:59 Family Dynamics in Business 06:04 Evolution of Town & Country's Services 08:49 Technological Changes 12:03 Surviving Market Shifts 14:55 Building Strong Client Relationships 21:02 Involving Siblings in the Business 23:50 Transitioning Business Ownership 27:09 Lessons from the Management Buyout Process 34:27 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 37:50 Personal Growth 40:14 Flexibility and Balance 45:27 Vision for the Future 51:10 Quickfire Insights

In this episode, Warren interviews Anders Hildebrand from Anglo American Oil Company, who shares his entrepreneurial journey from Sweden to the UK, the challenges of starting a business in a competitive market, and the evolution of his company into a family-run business. Anders discusses the importance of customers, the dynamics of working with family, and the future of sustainable fuels in the industry. He emphasises the need for trust, delegation, and the significance of maintaining a passion for the business. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anders 06:11 From Oil to Racing Fuels 12:50 Navigating Early Years 21:57 Family Dynamics in Business 32:20 From Entrepreneurial Spirit to Family Business 37:34 Sustainability and the Future of Fuels 43:48 Dreams and Aspirations

In this episode, Warren Munson interviews Yvonne Guerineau, author of People In Their Element, about the complexities of communication and relationships in the workplace. They explore the reasons behind communication breakdowns, the impact of assumptions and biases, and the importance of self-awareness. The conversation also touches on leadership styles, the challenges of growing organisations, and the significance of consistency in communication. Yvonne introduces the SAFER principles as a framework for understanding and improving communication dynamics. If you’re a business leader looking to improve your communication skills, you won’t want to miss this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast! This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Assumptions we make when communicating with people. The importance of self-awareness. How to be consistent as a leader. Prioritising relationship-building as a leader. The SAFER model. Understanding biases. Understanding individual and group dynamics. How to create a supportive environment. Chapters 00:00 Coming Up 00:30 Introduction 00:58 Understanding Miscommunication 02:54 Assumptions and Biases 06:12 Self-Understanding 09:08 Leadership Styles 12:01 The Impact of Growth on Communication 14:52 Consistency in Communication 17:49 Navigating New Leadership Dynamics 21:06 The SAFER Principles of Communication 29:14 Understanding Personality and Circumstances 30:13 Emotion in Business 35:15 Group Dynamics 38:37 Effective Managers 42:19 Differences in Relationships 47:05 Diverse Interactions 51:47 Communicating Future Plans

On this special episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson reflects on the highlights of 2024, sharing snippets and insights from our favourite episodes. The episode is divided into themes including entrepreneurship, family businesses, adventure and resilience, and employee to business ownership - showcasing the diverse businesses and experiences of the guests. From Jeff Mostyn's entrepreneurial beginnings to the dynamics of family business with Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, these conversations highlight the challenges and triumphs faced by business leaders. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Chapters 00:00 Introduction 00:55 Entrepreneurial Insights from Jeff Mostyn 05:24 Matt Fleming's Ownership Story 10:32 Business Challenges with Rupert Holloway 14:47 The Importance of Reputation with Paul Meyer 18:54 Family Business with Liz Lean PR 22:36 Family Business Stories with Jimmy’s Iced Coffee 27:54 Preparing for the Atlantic Rowing Challenge 31:33 Cycling Continents with James Benson King 36:28 The Power of Kindness with Mark Darcy 42:06 Employee to Business Owner with Adam Lewis 45:28 Joint Leadership with Rubicon People 50:33 Resilience Under Pressure with Keith Reilly

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson interviews James Benson King, also known as the Biking Viking on social media. James shares his inspiring journey from overcoming a heart condition as a child, to embarking on adventurous cycling trips around the world. He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to leave a successful career at JP Morgan to pursue a life of adventure. Throughout the conversation, James emphasises the importance of resilience, ownership, and setting goals - drawing parallels between his experiences on the road and lessons applicable to business. He also shares insights on how to bring adventure into everyday life and the significance of celebrating successes along the way. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Overcoming health conditions. How the fear of missing out can encourage adventure. Ways to deal with setbacks in life. How goals are crucial for success in business. Chunking tasks. The importance of embracing the journey. Having a positive mindset. Doing things that scare you. How planning for adventures can enhance the anticipation of joy. Finding joy in everyday life. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Heart Condition 05:44 From Corporate to Adventure 10:34 Alaska to Argentina 17:16 Lessons from the Road 25:28 Ownership and Setting Goals 30:48 Celebrating Success and Adjusting to Reality 37:13 Adventure in Everyday Life 40:32 Future Adventures

In this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, the team at Evolve, Warren Munson, David Mutton, and Becky Phillips, reflect on the key themes and changes in business throughout 2024. They discuss the impact of AI, profitability challenges with the new budget, and the importance of employee engagement. The conversation also covers insights for those looking to start a business, strategies for growth and leadership, and success stories from their Ignite, Thrive and Optimise services. As they look ahead to 2025, they emphasise the need for strategic planning, self-care, and building trust within teams. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… AI in business. Profitability challenges. What to think about when starting a business. Dealing with hybrid working environments. Adapting to the next generation of employees. Success stories from clients. Reflection on past achievements. Setting realistic yet ambitious goals. Building teams. The importance of self-care. Chapters 00:00 Reflecting on 2024 05:10 Starting a Business 10:02 Growth and Leadership 15:13 Success Stories 20:00 Planning for 2025 30:06 Looking Ahead 40:03 Advice for Business Leaders

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Keith Reilly shares his remarkable journey with Alfatronix, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers in power converters and USB and wireless chargers. Keith talks about his transition from an employee to the managing director and owner. He discusses the challenges faced during the financial crisis, the evolution of their products, and the importance of British manufacturing. Keith discusses the emotional aspects of stepping back from day-to-day operations and the significance of defining success in terms of providing value to others. This episode is invaluable for anyone in business, as Keith talks about the importance of being hands-on, succeeding under pressure, and how to improve employee relations. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… How to transform a lack of direction into success. The influence of Japan on the manufacturing industry. How beings hands-on can improve a company. How British manufacturing can compete on a global scale. The importance of mentorships. How to improve employee relations. The difficulties of managing by email. How crisis management can lead to unexpected success. The importance of delegation as a leader. How financial stability leads to personal growth and exploration. Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:50 Early Career with Alfatronix 05:08 Becoming Managing Director 10:41 Financial Crisis 13:37 Product Evolution 20:41 British Manufacturing 22:35 Leadership and Mentorship 27:51 Proud Moments and Dark Times 31:57 Leadership Challenges 39:14 Transitioning Leadership 52:49 Future Aspirations 01:00:19 Success in Business

When she was fifteen years old, Joanne Sperryn and her family were victims of the aggressive farm take overs in Zimbabwe. What followed was an unimaginable period of disruption that involved the collapse of the family business, separation from her parents, and Joanne pretty much being left to her own devices to establish a new life for herself. She recently co-founded Turbo Gaming with her husband Brian. Turbo Gaming integrates a bicycle on a turbo trainer with racing games, with the aim of...

Jon Webb is the principal of St. Aldhelm's Academy in Poole. Under his leadership, the school was transformed from near-closure - it achieved the worst GCSE results in England in 2012 - into a top-performer. Webb reveals how he did this.

Ric Exley, managing director at Jimmy's Iced Coffee, talks recruitment, product development and the importance of having fun.

In this special episode, Inspire and Evolve founder Warren Munson reflects on his own entrepreneurial journey and the lessons he's learned from it.