Rebelhead Entrepreneurs - Archive

Building Social Chains: Steven Bartlett on Disrupting Entrepreneurship and Challenging Conventional Wisdom

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 20 Jun 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Get motivated to challenge the status quo with 23-year-old Steven Bartlett, founder of Social Chain, as he shares raw stories of failure, creativity, and building one of the UK’s most talked-about agencies against all odds.

Steven Bartlett, Founder & CEO, Social Chain

Twitter: @StevenBartlettSC

Website: socialchain.com (may no longer be active)

Join host Max for an eye-opening interview with Steven Bartlett, a self-made entrepreneur who went from being expelled from school and living in poverty to running one of the UK’s largest influencer marketing agencies—before turning 24. Steven’s unconventional path is proof that disruption and bold thinking can trump traditional routes to success. In this candid conversation, Steven reflects on his early hustles organizing sold-out student events, why he believes asking is everything, and the mindset that helped him secure investment, break into consulting for global brands, and ultimately build Social Chain from scratch.

This episode dives deep into how Steven leveraged social media communities to create influence, why cultivating an internal locus of control is essential, and how reimagining work culture leads to exceptional results. Steven and Max also unpack the role of creativity in entrepreneurship, the power of failing fast, and why happiness—not just achievement—should define success. If you’ve ever questioned whether the “normal” path is right for you, this discussion delivers real-world lessons and the inspiration to carve your own.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Steven shares how being expelled from school and dropping out of university shaped his rebellious mindset (19:02, 23:09)
Early hustles running underage club nights taught him to spot opportunity and build from scratch (04:13, 06:29)
The principle: “If you don’t ask, you don’t get”—and how it landed him free equipment and game-changing introductions (08:42, 09:41)
Why believing success depends on yourself, not external circumstances, is crucial (11:30)
Building influence by creating and owning social media communities was the foundation for Social Chain (16:07, 36:19)
Rejecting conventional career paths and betting that “everyone else was wrong” (21:00, 25:30)
How poverty and hardship fueled his entrepreneurial ambition, not fear or self-doubt (28:34, 30:37)
Startup lessons: hiring, partnering, and “learning by doing” instead of chasing perfection (33:40, 51:23)
Social Chain’s growth strategy—acquiring digital communities and focusing on storytelling over metrics (45:54, 58:13)
Creating an open, autonomous, and fun work culture by treating employees as trusted partners, not robots (56:05, 62:05)

Top 3 Takeaways

Challenge conventional wisdom—don’t be afraid to forge your own path even when everyone else disagrees.
Don’t wait for permission: Asking boldly and being proactive creates opportunities others miss.
Build from first principles and focus on creative problem-solving, not just following proven formulas.

Links & Resources

Social Chain: socialchain.com
Billions in Change (documentary recommendation)
Articles from Huffington Post (Steven Bartlett contributor)
Handpicked book mention: References to Steve Jobs and Elon Musk for inspiration

Quotes

“Sometimes you can just ask for things and ask people for help and there’s nothing really to lose in doing so. If they say no, you’re in the position you were in when you started—but if they say yes, you’ve taken a step forward.”

“Being at the bottom and trying is much worse than being average and settled. I was as happy then as I am now, even when I couldn’t eat and didn’t have electricity. I was fulfilling my purpose.”

“It never even crossed my mind, what if it didn’t work? I really backed myself. Plan B acts as a distraction a lot of the time.”

“We’re all about disruption and about challenging the conventional wisdom. Not just in our product, but in everything we do—from how we hire to how we build the business.”

“Entrepreneurship is a verb. It’s about doing—if you believe in something, go find out quickly if you’re right. Don’t waste time worrying or over-planning.”

Unlocking Success Through Positive Psychology with Niyc Pidgeon

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 13 Jun 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover the mindset shifts and practical routines that fuel business breakthroughs, personal resilience, and authentic entrepreneurial happiness.

Niyc Pidgeon, Founder & CEO of Optimal You, international success coach, author, and winner of the Sage Young Entrepreneur of the Year 2015 award. Website: nickpigeon.com

Join host Julian Hall and guest Niyc Pidgeon as they explore the philosophies, strategies, and pivotal moments that define a meaningful entrepreneurial journey. Recorded while Niyc was based in Australia, this conversation blends the science of positive psychology with the practical wisdom of someone who has navigated career pivots, personal hardship, and business growth. Niyc opens up about her journey from Newcastle to launching global ventures, and how finding her voice—and investing deeply in self-development—became the cornerstone of her coaching empire.

In this episode, you’ll hear about the critical importance of mindset in business, lessons learned from near-burnout and adversity, and the story of how Niyc once made Elon Musk cry in a live, international conversation. Other highlights include the role of mentors in accelerating growth, letting go of the status quo, and practical routines for balancing ambition with well-being.

Whether you’re a new founder or a creative entrepreneur looking for clarity, the strategies and stories shared here will encourage you to embrace risk, cultivate optimism, and create value from the inside out.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

How following personal passion, not just profit, drives sustainable entrepreneurship (00:04:30)
Using adversity—including bullying and health crises—as fuel for growth and positive change (00:10:07)
The importance of investing in self-development and coaching, even when it feels risky (00:26:41)
Lessons on rebelling against societal expectations around career, money, and life paths (00:08:00)
The transformative power of sharing your own story and building a personal brand (00:20:43)
Mindset tools from positive psychology for overcoming self-doubt and activating breakthroughs (00:39:43)
Starting every day with gratitude and morning rituals to boost clarity and productivity (00:44:55)
Embracing risk: going all-in on purpose-driven projects, even without financial safety nets (00:37:41)
Delegation and focus: learning to grow businesses by letting go and avoiding burnout (00:17:30)
Why happiness and fulfillment are the real measures of success, not just external achievements (00:49:36)

Top 3 Takeaways

Invest in yourself first—mentorship, coaching, and education pay long-term dividends in both business and life.
Embrace setbacks and adversity as powerful lessons—they can catalyze your self-expression and professional growth.
Start and end each day with gratitude; small mindset shifts compound into resilience, confidence, and authentic success.

Links & Resources

Niyc Pidgeon: nickpigeon.com
Thrive Live events
Book: "Now Is Your Chance" by Niyc Pidgeon
Background on Positive Psychology (various academic resources referenced in conversation)
Young Enterprise program

Quotes

"For me, it's about following your passion and doing what you love. You decide when your journey starts. Everything is temporary and you can create whatever you want, but never get used to it."

"When there's something inside of you that knows that this is going to be the breakthrough for you, you've got to go for it. You've got to take that risk and go all in. Because that's when the magic happens."

"I believe that life is to be enjoyed to its fullest and I think we can only enjoy it to its fullest when we're happy. Entrepreneurship is a great vehicle for us to find joy."

"It was hard because I felt like a fraud. I was the positive psychologist, but I didn’t feel positive on the inside… The good thing about that was it didn’t leave me anywhere else to go apart from to deal with that deeply."

"Success without happiness is not in fact success at all. It’s about being—understanding you can feel successful and happy in the moment, from the inside out."

How to Build Resilient Businesses and Reinvent Yourself: Lessons from Serial Entrepreneur John Richardson

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 09:30:00 +0100

Discover the power of hard graft, process-driven thinking, and overcoming failure in entrepreneurship.

John Richardson – Serial Entrepreneur, Author, Consultant

Twitter: @johnrichardson

Website: johnrichardson.com (may be inactive)

In this episode, host Max sits down with John Richardson, a renowned entrepreneur who built Ireland’s largest sandwich shop empire by age 28, lost it all before turning 30, and then went on to found several seven-figure businesses. John shares his journey from early ventures in hospitality and retail to becoming a best-selling author and highly respected consultant for coffee shops and small businesses across the UK.

The conversation covers John’s philosophy on market selection, how to use content and expertise to build credibility, and why focusing on financial foundations is essential for entrepreneurs. John also discusses how his passion project in golf became a best-selling book and a film-in-progress, illustrating the importance of process, adaptability, and storytelling in both business and personal development.

Listeners will take away practical strategies for finding profitable niches, scaling expertise, and building resilient businesses that can adapt to fast-changing markets. John’s insights are grounded in real-world experience, offering both inspiration and actionable advice for anyone in business or considering the entrepreneurial path.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

John Richardson’s entrepreneurial path: from running 19 businesses across hospitality, retail, and online to building specialized expertise in coffee shops and golf (04:29)
The critical importance of understanding financials and systems—why focusing on “the money” comes first (15:04)
How to rebound from total business failure, and why early setbacks can drive long-term success (16:24)
Process-driven consulting: developing and repeatedly refining business models and frameworks (16:58)
Identifying profitable niches: why John chose the coffee shop industry and how he validated demand (19:45)
Authority through content: writing books, public speaking, and leveraging storytelling to build a consulting brand (21:35)
The difference between genuinely valuable expertise and superficial advice—plus John’s “hundred words for every one you speak” knowledge ethos (32:43)
John's “Dream On” golf experiment: using research and systems to achieve ambitious goals, and how sporting challenges inform his business philosophy (37:33)
Productivity and goal achievement: practical routines, time-blocking, and focusing energy where it truly matters (43:06)
Rethinking “strengths and weaknesses”: why entrepreneurs must address weaknesses and not just double down on passions (64:53)
Failure and setbacks are often the springboard for future innovation; treat every challenge as a learning opportunity.
Build authority by combining practical know-how with storytelling—don’t just teach the theory, share real-world experiences.
To identify a profitable niche, look for markets with demonstrated growth, ongoing demand, and customers willing to pay for substantial results.
Dream On by John Richardson (Best-selling book about his golf quest)
The Language of Leaders by Kevin Murray
Start with Why by Simon Sinek (discussed critically)
Work by Dan Kennedy (approach to selling information)
Seve Ballesteros Short Game Video
Evernote (tool for organization and productivity)

“For every word that you speak on your subject, you should know a hundred more.”

“I don't want to have regrets of things that I haven't done, and I also don't want to have regrets of things that I did for too long.”

“Process is where the magic is. That’s what I would want to say to myself.”

“When you are an entrepreneur, there are multiple variables. There’s a jigsaw that you have to travel in place.”

“People remember the story. So when people write business books that just give theory, theory, theory, they don’t get read.”

How to Build, Brand, and Scale Your First Online Business with Oliver Kenyon

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 06 Jun 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how a chef-turned-entrepreneur built successful online businesses, overcame self-doubt, and grew a digital empire by creating value and saying no to perfectionism.

Guest:

Oliver Kenyon — Serial Entrepreneur, Managing Director & COO at Lovecars.com; Co-founder of Landing Page Guys and Fix Forums

Blog/Social: oliverkenyon.com | @OliverKenyon

What does it take to go from working nights as a teenage chef to running thriving digital businesses with tens of thousands of users? In this candid, practical, and inspiring interview, Oliver Kenyon joins Rebelhead Entrepreneurs to share his unconventional entrepreneurial journey — from launching his first website at fourteen to managing multiple companies. Listen as Oliver and host Adam talk through the realities behind “overnight” online success, why self-belief is non-negotiable, and how to handle perfectionism before it paralyzes your progress.

You'll hear Oliver’s hard-won lessons on personal branding, finding co-founders who complement your skills, and structuring your days for peak productivity. He dives into the importance of resilience, the danger of credit-fueled startup lifestyles, and how creating something of true value should always come before chasing the money. Whether you’re pondering a leap into entrepreneurship or struggling to balance multiple projects, this episode offers timeless advice on habits, mindset, and the power of just getting started.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Oliver shares how his first entrepreneurial spark ignited on hip-hop forums as a teenager (04:21)
Why personal branding outlasts any one business or project (47:12)
The pitfalls of perfectionism — and how shipping imperfect work leads to growth (56:14)
Strategic use of side hustles: Keeping a day job while scaling an online business (28:50)
Building companies with complementary co-founders and why skill alignment matters (40:15)
Networking as the true source of big opportunities (43:36)
Why “get shit done” is Oliver’s enduring mantra for productivity (107:47)
How to manage your time and focus when juggling multiple ventures (109:35)
The value of saying “no” — and when to shift from yes-man to gatekeeper (16:24)
Dealing with criticism, friends who don’t understand, and rebelling against conventional wisdom (50:55, 121:19)

Top 3 Takeaways

Ship before it’s perfect. Don’t let perfectionism stall your momentum — learn as you go, course-correct, and build in public.
Build personal resilience and ignore naysayers. Self-belief and strong work ethic will carry you further than initial skills or resources.
Prioritize value and relationships over quick wins. Lasting success comes from helping others, cultivating your brand, and picking the right partners and clients.

Links & Resources

Oliver Kenyon’s blog: oliverkenyon.com
Basecamp project management (basecamp.com)
Rework by Jason Fried & David Heinemeier Hansson
KnowEm username checker (knowem.com)
Pat Flynn’s Smart Passive Income (smartpassiveincome.com)
Zach Johnson: blogging.org
Lovecars.com

Quotes

“I’ve always wanted to kind of do my own ideas and see my kind of visions take place. Believe in yourself and kind of stick to what you’re doing and everything else will follow.”

“The fear of failure is kind of what keeps me working until God knows when in the morning. Get shit done.”

“If people take the piss or if people put you down, then they really shouldn't be your friend. You have to move on and surround yourself with the right people.”

“Don’t ever email me from a Gmail account — get your own domain, take yourself seriously, and make your brand consistent everywhere.”

“If you believe in what you’re doing and you stick to it and you don’t worry about the money … the money will follow.”

How a Teenage Entrepreneur Built a Digital Empire: Matt Lovett’s Journey from Sweets to Multi-Million Pound Businesses

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 30 May 2016 09:30:00 +0100

Gain a rare, behind-the-scenes look at how Matt Lovett built and pivoted multiple businesses from the age of 13, tackling fear, failure, and the fast-moving world of affiliate marketing.

Matt Lovett, Founder & CEO of WOW Media

@MattLovettUK

wowmedia.co.uk

From humble beginnings selling sweets at school to building a multi-million-pound digital business, Matt Lovett’s story is a testament to unconventional thinking and relentless adaptation. In this candid conversation, Matt sits down with Max to share precisely how he spotted an opportunity in the cashback and affiliate marketing space—at a time when most people his age were studying for exams—and the tough lessons he learned along the way.

You’ll hear how Matt navigated the rapid scaling (and subsequent setbacks) of his ventures, why he never wrote a formal business plan, and how embracing mistakes built his resilience. Throughout the episode, Matt opens up about dealing with self-doubt, finding his groove as a young leader, and the practical systems he uses to keep his company both profitable and enjoyable for his team. The discussion also unpacks financial discipline, strategic pivots, building workplace culture, and even meeting entrepreneurial icon Richard Branson.

Whether you’re a budding founder or an established entrepreneur, this episode offers a grounded, relatable look at the realities of startup life, risk-taking, and building a sustainable business with heart.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Matt’s entrepreneurial start: from school sweets to launching his first cashback website at 13
Real talk on scaling fast, outpacing competitors, and eventually pivoting when markets got saturated (18:07)
Why Matt never wrote a business plan, and how learning “on the job” shaped his methods
Weathering setbacks: office robbery, product hacks, cash flow crises, and mental resilience (16:12; 24:09)
Building a brand and company culture focused on genuine enjoyment and staff wellbeing (39:12)
The role financial management and personal investment strategies played in Matt’s journey (42:10)
How to keep learning, stay organized, and evolve processes as the business scales (33:47)
The importance of facing fears head-on, from conference nerves to managing industry expectations (47:07)
Influences, lessons learned from failures, and meeting Richard Branson (59:27)
Insights on what truly drives long-term business success—hint: it’s not just about the money

Top 3 Takeaways

You don’t need a perfect plan to begin—take action, learn quickly, and adapt as you go.
Systematizing processes and focusing on financial discipline are essential for sustainable growth.
Facing personal fears (like public speaking or risk of failure) is integral to becoming a resilient entrepreneur; discomfort often signals the next step forward.

Links & Resources

Richard Branson (inspirational figure)
Daily Mail Enterprising Young Brit Award (award recognition)
WOW Media (Matt’s company): wowmedia.co.uk
MyVoucherCodes and LADbible (businesses referenced as disruptors)
Open University (Matt’s brief accounting studies)
Peer-to-peer loan platforms (for personal investing)

Quotes

“To be an entrepreneur, you’ve kind of got to go all in. It’s not so much about money, but about running a business that stands out, changes the industry, and becomes a market leader.”

“If you let one fear consume you, then you let another and another. It becomes very easy to just start letting these things bother you…sometimes you’ve just got to make a decision and move on.”

“I’ve never had a business plan. I’ve just learned as I’ve gone along the way.”

“The second I stop enjoying it will be the second I stop.”

“My role is pretty much about putting procedures in place and making sure things are running smoothly. I’d say that’s 80–90% of my day-to-day job.”

How to Build a Disruptive Augmented Reality Startup: Lessons from Jean-Francois Chianetta of Augment

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 30 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how relentless curiosity, creative focus, and a willingness to do things that don’t scale can turn an idea into a globally recognized tech company.

Jean-Francois Chianetta, Co-founder & CEO, Augment | @jfchi | augment.com

Join Max as he interviews Jean-Francois Chianetta, founder and CEO of Augment, the AR SaaS company changing the way brands and consumers interact with 3D content. In this deep dive, Jean-Francois shares his journey from mechanical engineer to entrepreneur, revealing how he bootstrapped Augment from idea to signing enterprise clients like Coca Cola, Samsung, and L’Oreal. The episode explores the realities of startup growth: from burning midnight oil and risking financial security, to fixing a broken business model in the eleventh hour.

Listen in for candid wisdom on navigating uncertainty, staying laser-focused on your vision, and finding product-market fit for breakthrough technology. Jean-Francois unpacks mistakes, pivots, and personal philosophies that enabled Augment’s survival and growth. Whether you’re considering entrepreneurship, experimenting with new technology, or searching for actionable startup lessons, this conversation delivers practical and timeless advice.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Working two full-time jobs: building Augment by night while holding a day job for two years (00:01–00:19)
Early focus on building and shipping quickly, even if the product was imperfect (00:55)
Why money isn’t the main motivation—seeing business as a creative endeavor and “nearly a drug” (00:08)
Navigating the crucial pivot from a self-serve SaaS model to tailored enterprise sales, which saved the company (00:24–00:27)
How Augment found its market fit by observing what existing users were already doing with the product (00:22)
Learning to say “no” to opportunities that don’t fit the company vision—even when they involve large sums (00:40)
The importance of surrounding yourself with the right co-founders and structuring a complementary team (00:33–00:35)
Embracing uncertainty as “different paths,” not as stress or anxiety, and always preparing for worst-case scenarios (00:43–00:48)
The value of sharing your idea early, iterating publicly, and seeking real-world feedback (00:16–00:18)
Why the founder’s calmness (and “tree of possibilities” mindset) sets the tone for the whole team (00:44)

Top 3 Takeaways

Focus on building and shipping—don’t wait for perfection or market clarity. Real feedback only comes from putting your product in the world.
Say no to distractions and opportunities that don’t directly serve your core vision, even if they come with tempting rewards.
Treat uncertainty as a navigable set of possible outcomes. Plan for the worst, hope for the best, and see setbacks as new pathways.

Links & Resources

Pocket (read-later app): getpocket.com
Four Steps to the Epiphany by Steve Blank
“Do Things That Don’t Scale” by Paul Graham (Essay: paulgraham.com/ds.html)
Magic Leap: magicleap.com

Quotes

“I don’t see any uncertainties. I see only various paths to go to various places.”

“For me, it’s like a video game to do a company. It’s really so much fun. You just want to do that all the time. It’s nearly a drug.”

“One important point: you need to show your idea to the outside world. I could have said, I don’t want to show that to anyone…but I said, let’s go there, let’s talk about my idea, and ask for feedback.”

“You need to say no most of the time. Each time you say yes, it means more work, more time…and if it’s not the most prioritized thing, you should not do it.”

“I think entrepreneurship is building things and pushing them out until they have a life of their own.”

Building Unwavering Self-Belief and Disrupting Retail: An Interview with Aman Khurana

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 23 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

What does it really take to disrupt an industry and turn unwavering self-belief into entrepreneurial success? This episode holds the hard-hitting truths.

Guest: Aman Khurana, Co-founder of Go In Store; seasoned digital expert and entrepreneur.

Social: LinkedIn: Aman Khurana (links may no longer be active)

Website: goinstore.com (active status not guaranteed)

What are the real sacrifices behind launching a disruptive business? In this sharp, energizing conversation recorded at the Go In Store headquarters, host Max sits down with Aman Khurana, entrepreneur and digital visionary, to talk about what it takes to not just dream, but do. From bold beginnings in childhood charity projects to co-founding a tech company bridging the gap between online and in-store retail, Aman opens up about the relentless self-belief and disciplined hard work necessary to make it as an entrepreneur.

The discussion delivers an unvarnished look at the entrepreneurial journey: the importance of self-confidence, the realities of risk and sacrifice, and how true disruption means solving problems—not just chasing trends. Aman also shares the foundational role of family, the value of a strong co-founder relationship, and the lessons learned from previous ventures, all while highlighting why enjoying the journey matters as much as the destination.

Expect practical wisdom on building company culture, the nuances of empowering teams, and how entrepreneurs can maintain balance in pursuit of ambitious goals. Whether you’re building your first startup or searching for the motivation to try, this episode offers a rare, honest examination of what sustainable success really takes.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

How Aman’s childhood experiences in entrepreneurship shaped his mindset (04:45)
The power—and liability—of unwavering self-belief (06:04)
Why hard work and persistence matter as much as vision (09:00)
The origins and mission of Go In Store: bridging online and offline retail with real human interaction (10:16)
How sacrifice, including moving back home, is often required for startup founders (27:05)
The critical importance of co-founder relationships and shared values (38:00)
Disruption in retail: why innovation must create real value, not just novelty (16:07)
The dangers of losing balance and how to recalibrate for health and family (34:54)
Understanding the “millennial” mindset and serving new generations of consumers (39:30)
How to empower teams to take initiative and the value of making mistakes (31:14)

Top 3 Takeaways

True entrepreneurship demands persistent hard work, the courage to learn from failure, and a relentless belief in your vision—even when sacrifices feel steep.
Disruptive ideas succeed when they genuinely solve industry problems and deliver measurable value, not just because they’re new or tech-driven.
Sustaining success means keeping your values in sight: regularly reassess your health, relationships, and motivations, and share the journey with trusted partners.

Links & Resources

Go In Store: goinstore.com
Anthony Robbins “Unleash the Power Within”
Peter Sage (author and entrepreneur)
Sales Cycle, referenced company
Millennial 2020 Expo
Bill Gates (philanthropy and entrepreneurial inspiration)

Quotes

“I've always had an unwavering belief that I can do whatever I put my mind to. And for that matter, anyone in the world... can actually achieve what you want if you work hard and put your mind to it.”

“Anyone that's been successful, anyone that I know, they work bloody hard. It's a serious amount of hard work and they've gone through a serious amount of crap, let's say, to get to that point, but they continue to go.”

“You can go through hell and back, follow your dreams, follow your heart, do what you need to do. But don't forget how much hard work there is.”

“Culture is such an important asset for any business... If you can get people to work with their hearts, they will give their blood and their sweat.”

“Do the right thing as much as you can. Be good to people and everything will always be all right in the end.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

Turning Monsters Into Movies: Corin Hardy’s Creative Journey from Sketchbook to Sundance

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Award-winning director Corin Hardy unpacks his hands-on approach to filmmaking, creativity under constraints, and the relentless drive behind his breakthrough projects.

Corin Hardy

Filmmaker, Feature & Music Video Director

Notable Works: The Hallow, music videos for The Prodigy, Keane, Ed Sheeran

Website: corinhardy.com | IG: @corinhardy

Discover how Corin Hardy transformed his childhood fascination with monsters and creativity into an award-winning filmmaking career. In this lively and thought-provoking episode, director Corin Hardy joins Max to trace the twists and turns of his artistic path, from carrying sketchbooks full of strange creatures to bootstrapping his way through stop-motion features and acclaimed music videos. Corin opens up about the power of creative family influences, lessons learned in the trenches, and the importance of gut instinct when forging your own vision.

Hear behind-the-scenes moments from his stop-motion film “Butterfly,” why limitations became his secret weapon, and how the gamble of relentless self-belief led to international recognition at Sundance and beyond. Corin shares candid reflections on networking the right way, balancing commercial and creative goals, and why trusting resilience is essential in any creative venture.

Whether you’re building films, companies, or your own creative practice, Corin’s story offers a practical, energizing glimpse into the mindset and methods of a true rebel entrepreneur.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Corin’s creative upbringing in a family immersed in art, music, and craftsmanship shaped his hands-on approach to filmmaking (06:16–08:50)
The evolution from special effects enthusiast to full-scale director, and how carrying sketchbooks opened unexpected doors (10:16–13:14)
Bootstrapping the stop-motion short “Butterfly” over five years, including the mindset and tactics that kept him going (28:33–41:41)
How creative constraints (limited budget, analog cameras, time) fueled innovation and storytelling discipline (21:31–22:27)
The pivotal role of visual portfolios and documenting your creative journey to get opportunities and convey vision (09:05–10:59, 15:43–16:21)
Transitioning from passion projects to commercial work, and selecting only music videos that allowed narrative experimentation (46:05–47:47)
Why resilience, perseverance, and “spider web” networking matter more than formal plans or academic paths (49:12–51:06)
Navigating the challenges of directing a feature—balancing practical effects with financial and logistical realities (54:25–01:08:16)
Harnessing “good fear” on set to inspire the best work—and steering clear of “bad fear” that stifles creativity (01:03:26–01:04:18)
The enduring value of gut instinct and adaptability for any entrepreneur or creator (52:21–53:50, throughout)

Top 3 Takeaways

Document your creative journey visually and tangibly—you never know who you’ll meet or when you’ll need to show your vision.
Embrace creative limitations as hidden assets; constraints can sharpen your resourcefulness and elevate results.
Cultivate resilience and trust your gut—success in creative entrepreneurship comes from persistent, authentic self-belief and building genuine relationships.

Links & Resources

Corin Hardy: corinhardy.com
The Hallow (feature film)
Mind (UK Mental Health Charity)
Ray Harryhausen (inspiration)
“Butterfly” (stop-motion short)
Music videos for Keane, The Prodigy, Paolo Nutini, Ed Sheeran, Biffy Clyro
Book: Fangoria magazine
Film: “Nightmare Before Christmas” (dir. Henry Selick, produced by Tim Burton)
Film: “Evil Dead 2” (dir. Sam Raimi)
Film: “Army of Darkness,” “Alien,” “Excalibur,” “Salem’s Lot”

Quotes

“I really wanted to be a monster maker and do special effects… Trying to get to do what you want to do and earn money has always been a mission. Don’t go and work for someone else. Do your own film.”

“There’s a sort of fear that drives you and it keeps you on edge. I only really have ever gone off a gut instinct.”

“I used to lug around these folios almost everywhere… If I bumped into someone and there was any chance to sort of show them, like, what I did, cause I really was trying to get to work somewhere, then having evidence was really… maybe I was a bit full on. But, you know, if I could get a reaction out of someone by showing them something I’d made, that’s what I tried to do.”

“Limitations and restrictions, working within them—whether it’s in special effects and CG or having to budget a film and reluctantly have to sacrifice and cut scenes or ideas—but actually all for the better of it in the end.”

“Resilience—you have to keep going no matter what is thrown at you and brush it off. And that’s my main… inspirational word in all these.”

How to Build and Scale a Profitable “Free Stuff” Business: Deepak Tailor’s Disruptive Journey

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Tue, 17 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how Deepak Tailor grew an innovative business around giving away free products, defied conventional wisdom, and learned to turn risk into remarkable success.

Deepak Tailor, Founder, LatestFreeStuff.co.uk

Twitter: @deepaktailor

Website: https://www.latestfreestuff.co.uk

In this in-depth conversation, Max sits down with Deepak Tailor, the entrepreneurial force behind LatestFreeStuff.co.uk – the UK’s largest destination for genuine free samples and products. Recorded in the very early days of the Rebelhead Entrepreneurs podcast, this episode offers a raw look into how Deepak went from university side hustler to the helm of a thriving, disruptive web company.

Key topics include how Deepak built an online empire with minimal investment, the evolution from bootstrapped beginnings to national recognition, and the principles that helped him win over fans, score viral marketing hits, and field offers from Dragons’ Den investors. The discussion also dives into the psychology behind risk-taking, why disruption matters, the realities of scaling without external funding, and how entrepreneurial confidence evolves with experience.

Whether you’re curious about alternative business models, growth without venture capital, or practical lessons from someone who’s walked the talk, this episode delivers hard-earned wisdom on challenging the status quo and building your own lane.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Why Latest Free Stuff was created to disrupt an untrustworthy industry—and how genuine value won over users (03:30)
How Deepak scaled from beer-money side projects to 70+ affiliate sites before LatestFreeStuff.co.uk (07:41)
Sustainable, search-driven growth: How SEO fueled all his ventures and why paid traffic never appealed (12:13)
Turning free offers into revenue: The affiliate model that powers the business, and why trust is everything (17:43)
Bootstrapping for impact: Launching with £500, keeping costs razor-thin, and hiring smart as the business grew (20:00)
Growing a small team, learning to delegate, and the pivotal choice to leave the bedroom and join coworking spaces (24:19; 47:17)
The viral impact of startup awards and media features—including the inside story of his appearance on Dragon’s Den and why he ultimately walked away from investment (28:22; 46:45)
Leveraging content, community, and a bestselling book to deepen brand authority and audience trust (55:33)
The practical realities of balancing hustle, stress, and personal boundaries as an entrepreneur (59:19)
Advice for would-be founders: Why action beats endless research and the value of small, consistent steps (01:06:03)
You don’t need major funding to start, but you do need the confidence to challenge what’s “normal.” Start where you are with what you have.
Iterate fast: Test ideas in the real world instead of waiting for things to be perfect. Learn from direct user feedback instead of endless research.
Build trust through transparency and consistent value. Whether you’re curating deals or selling a product, reliability and customer care drive word-of-mouth growth.

• LatestFreeStuff.co.uk

• Hostgator (web hosting)

• Startups 100 (startups.co.uk)

• Dragons’ Den (BBC)

• Meetup.com

• Four Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss

• 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey

• Rapportive (email social discovery tool)

• Peak User Testing: peak.usertesting.com

• Great British Entrepreneurs Awards

“I thought there must be a way to dominate everything to do with free stuff. Don’t go and just live your 9 to 5 job. Start something—I would say, go fully at it, rip everything apart that you’ve learned.”

“Honestly, I would say: be more confident, controversial, and disruptive... Market the hell out of your company. You need to just find the gaps in the industry you’re going into and do things differently.”

“All you really need is a domain name which costs about 5, 6 pounds, and the hosting package... That hosted 70 sites, so you can’t really go wrong there.”

“The only reason I started the site was really just to try and change the industry. I wanted to bring in all the genuine samples that real top brands give out.”

“If you’re doing [your business] seven days a week, it’s draining. I’ve learned you have to put boundaries in place—sharpen the sword so you can be raring to go again on Monday.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

Why Leaving Banking for Entrepreneurship Was the Best Decision Ever with Rachel Verghis

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 16 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how art, resilience, and relentless problem-solving can turn a simple idea into a global brand.

Rachel Verghis, Founder & CEO of GUI, entrepreneur and art collector, former investment banker

Instagram: @guicases

Website: www.guicases.com

How do you take a leap from high-stakes investment banking to launching a groundbreaking product brand? In this candid and inspiring episode, Max sits down with Rachel Verghis, who shares her transition from a demanding 18-year career in banking to founding GUI—a company blending art, fashion, and technology into covetable phone cases. Rachel unpacks the realities of starting up, from idea inception to scaling internationally, applying lessons of grit and adaptability from the trading floor to the world of physical products.

The conversation covers Rachel’s entrepreneurial journey: how she identified a gap in the market as a new mum, sourced and developed a unique material for phone cases, and learned, often the hard way, about intellectual property, networking, management, and brand-building. Hear why resilience—not technical expertise—became her most invaluable asset, and how forging creative collaborations helped GUI break through one of the most saturated markets around.

Rachel also delves into the non-glamorous side of start-up life: working 14-hour days, the reality of risking personal savings, and the vital importance of both social media and building the right team. Get actionable advice on funding, team structure, digital marketing, and maintaining a positive mindset through the rollercoaster of entrepreneurship.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Rachel discusses her career leap from global banking to founding GUI for more autonomy and family flexibility (03:02)
The origins of GUI: spotting a personal need as a new mother and transforming it into a marketable idea (04:12)
Navigating the stress, culture, and resilience built on the trading floor—and how it shaped her entrepreneurial mindset (06:47)
The importance of creative collaborations with artists and designers to create a standout product in a crowded market (28:07)
Why pragmatic decision-making and reinvesting profits back into the business are crucial for bootstrapped founders (21:06)
Overcoming failure, product recalls, and learning from mistakes, especially around patents and intellectual property (42:07)
Why visual branding and targeting “tribes” through social media are essential to modern product launches (37:30)
Building an agile, freelance-first team—how Rachel structures her company to maximize expertise and efficiency (34:01)
The risk and reward of producing free sample products to win collaboration deals with major brands (49:19)
Personal productivity hacks: on using tools like Kanban Flow and managing a seven-day workweek with only four hours of sleep (01:05:43)

Top 3 Takeaways:

Resilience is a learnable asset—embrace failure as part of the process, and keep moving forward even after setbacks.
Build a product people want by solving your own problem, but stand out in crowded markets by forging meaningful creative partnerships.
Prioritize visual branding and tribe-based marketing to connect authentically with today’s discerning, fast-moving consumers.

Links & Resources:

GUI Cases: www.guicases.com
Kanban Flow: https://kanbanflow.com/
Instagram: @guicases
London Chamber of Commerce: www.londonchamber.co.uk
UK Trade Board

Quotes: "I don't give up easily. You fail, you get up, you do it again, and it's brutal."

"You can actually manifest success or failure both ways in anything you do."

"In banking there’s such a hierarchy… here, I’m the boss and I can do anything I want. It’s a bit frightening on the other end when I lose money."

"Our biggest market is our website and Amazon. How a millennial shops now is they go online, look at the first website, and buy there."

"If your product is not working, is not selling, you’ve got to stop. It’s quite courageous to do that—people don’t give that advice."

Building a World-Class Creative Agency: Lessons from Fantasy’s David Martin

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Fri, 13 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how relentless creativity, people-first leadership, and a willingness to break the rules propelled Fantasy to the top of global design agencies.

David Martin, Founder & CEO, Fantasy

Website: fantasy.co

Social: Not specified

In this episode, Max welcomes David Martin, founder and CEO of acclaimed design agency Fantasy. From humble beginnings in Ireland and Sweden to serving clients like Google, Facebook, Twitter, and Spotify, David shares how he turned a passion for beautiful digital experiences into an award-winning global firm. The conversation dives into the origins of Fantasy, the power of creative competition, the reality of building a company with no funding, and why nurturing and protecting talent is David’s top priority.

Listeners get a candid look at David’s entrepreneurial journey—from early years with no income to handling lucrative offers from tech giants, balancing creativity with business growth, and navigating the ongoing challenge of retaining top talent. David opens up about mistakes, philosophies, and the value of teamwork in shaping both Fantasy and his own outlook. The discussion is packed with hard-won advice for anyone striving to create work at the highest level or build a team around ambitious goals.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

David’s creative spark was fueled by competitive childhood ambitions and the influence of American pop culture (06:10)
The Fantasy origin story: from building websites in a Swedish garage to landing global tech clients (09:43)
Why David chose the agency name “Fantasy” and the cinematic inspiration behind it (09:43)
The role of quality over quantity in attracting top-tier clients—and why most clients never realized how small Fantasy was (36:46)
Agency growth pivoted on hiring people first, not chasing business; every major office opened to secure unique talent (18:40)
Candid story: turning down Google’s acquisition offer to preserve company DNA and staff flexibility (20:12)
How creative leadership evolved—learning to balance vision, delegation, and business realities (22:58)
The real impact of great design and UX in the age of ever-pickier users (30:52)
Biggest business mistake: a YouTube video and lost client—lessons in professionalism and emotional discipline (45:14)
Developing a “competitive but humble” culture where feedback and learning from mistakes drive growth (103:07)

Top 3 Takeaways

Surround yourself with people stronger than you—invest in hiring and nurturing top talent over growing your client list.
Quality trumps scale: Building a strong brand and portfolio of exceptional work opens doors, regardless of company size.
Stay driven but humble—embrace mistakes, listen constantly, and let your competitive spirit push you to the top.

Links & Resources

Fantasy – https://fantasy.co
Dribbble – https://dribbble.com
Final Fantasy (film) – inspiration for agency name
Google Material Design: Key reference for UI innovation

Quotes

“The top is not hard to get to. The top is not full of amazing people. The top is hard to stay on top of—but be competitive and you will stay there.”

“People in agencies, I feel, have to grow around their people rather than their business. I’m not here because of me. I’m here because I was able to surround myself with people that are a lot stronger than me.”

“I don’t care if you’re an intern, if you have a great attitude, if you’re just pushing—I will listen to you all day long.”

“Users know when they see absolute shite. There is no way on this day on earth anymore that users can put up with crap.”

“Either do it right, or don’t bother.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

How Charles Ngo Built an Affiliate Marketing Empire (and Why Systems Will Set You Free)

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Sat, 07 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Explore how one of the world’s top affiliate marketers moved from lifestyle entrepreneur to business builder—and why true progress may be the ultimate source of happiness.

Charles Ngo, Affiliate Marketing Expert, Entrepreneur, Business Strategist

Website: charlesngo.com

Twitter: @drcharlesngo

The path from fledgling entrepreneur to multi-million dollar business owner is rarely a straight line. In this episode, Charles Ngo joins host Max to share his journey from a conventional upbringing to becoming a dominant force in the internet marketing space. Charles is known for his rapid ascent in affiliate marketing, making his first million within a year, and then deliberately shifting his focus from the freedom of constant travel to building a larger, impact-driven company.

Charles opens up about what it took to move beyond the “lifestyle design” phase, his experience with setbacks, and the inner work required to escape comfort and find long-term fulfillment. The conversation covers his unique productivity systems, the critical importance of choosing your environment, and why self-awareness and adaptability are the real skills behind lasting success. You’ll also hear Charles discuss his philosophy on learning, the power of questioning the status quo, and his approach to building personal and professional leverage.

Whether you’re just starting out, facing a tough pivot, or wondering how to juggle ambition with well-being, this timeless conversation offers focus, tough love, and actionable frameworks that resonate far beyond affiliate marketing.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

The journey from lifestyle entrepreneur to building a high-impact, scalable business (04:15)
Why happiness is tied to progress—not just comfort or travel (06:00)
The pivotal influence of books like Rich Dad, Poor Dad and The 4-Hour Workweek on Charles’s mindset shift (11:00)
How environment and routine act as force multipliers for productivity and personal growth (08:05, 53:15)
The importance of systems: leveraging teams and automation for higher output (44:19)
Differentiating “deep work” from “shallow work”—and how Charles structures his days for maximum focus (55:50)
The necessity of failing fast and viewing each misstep as a seed of future success (34:19, 74:52)
Rethinking education, expertise, and the power of self-directed learning (36:10)
Generosity and thinking bigger: lessons from mentors and the transition to teaching others (38:38, 40:01)
Managing distractions and the intentional restriction of technology for sustained attention (1:16:08)

Top 3 Takeaways

Don’t confuse comfort with progress; real happiness often comes from growth, not routine.
Systems and routines aren’t just productivity hacks—they are the backbone for scaling your business and freeing your creative energy.
Self-directed learning and relentless questioning of conventional wisdom can transform your trajectory, regardless of background or starting point.

Links & Resources

Rich Dad, Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki
The 4-Hour Workweek by Tim Ferriss
Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill
The Magic of Thinking Big by David Schwartz
The Happiness Advantage by Shawn Achor
charlesngo.com

Quotes

"The system doesn't want me to succeed... They just want me to be a herd and the cattle and they don't want an educated consumer."

“Happiness is progress. Me being in Asia, I was having fun, but I wasn't making progress. It’s all about, I want people to see me—and every time they see me, I’m doing something new.”

“Show me your bank account statements and show me your calendar and I’ll tell you what’s important to you.”

“Failure is a part of the game. You can’t avoid it. Just realize with each failure is a seed of success.”

“Don’t compare your chapter one to someone else’s chapter forty.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

Julian Hall on Reinventing Entrepreneurship and Cultivating Creativity in the Next Generation

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Fri, 06 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how redefining entrepreneurship for young people is transforming education, breaking barriers, and revealing what it really takes to turn your passion into profit.

Julian Hall – Award-winning serial entrepreneur, founder of Ultra Academy & Ultra Kids Club, international speaker, best-selling author

[No longer active – original contact details may be outdated]

In this illuminating conversation, host Max sits down with Julian Hall—also known as the UltraPreneur—to unpack the evolving definition of entrepreneurship and its crucial role in shaping both individual futures and the global economy. Drawing from his vibrant entrepreneurial journey, Julian shares not only battle-tested business lessons but also his mission to embed entrepreneurship deeply into childhood education through Ultra Academy and Ultra Kids Club.

The discussion spans practical tactics for discovering your entrepreneurial passion, the necessity of aligning personal growth with business success, and the often-overlooked ingredient of creativity in solving real-world problems. Julian candidly addresses the shortcomings of traditional business education, empowering listeners to rethink career paths, challenge self-limiting beliefs, and use innovation as a daily practice. With vivid personal anecdotes—from making bows as a child, to launching a digital marketing agency in the heart of London's tech scene—Julian's approach makes entrepreneurship accessible, actionable, and deeply human.

Whether you're a seasoned founder, aspiring creator, or an educator eager to inspire the next generation, this conversation is packed with insights on blending business fundamentals and creativity, the importance of enabling environments, and how to test your ideas in the real world.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Why entrepreneurship is essential in today's world—not just for economic growth, but for personal development and finding purpose
The power of childhood experiences and environment in shaping entrepreneurial thinking (07:44)
Creativity as the anchor of entrepreneurship, and why schools should nurture it alongside literacy and numeracy (14:41)
The crucial difference between passion and excellence—and why both matter for business success (43:05)
How to test and validate your business idea: focus groups, customer interviews, and building products with your audience (45:44)
Rethinking business education: the myth of business plans and the need for flexible, real-world approaches (24:56)
The psychological barriers entrepreneurs face—how ego, fear, and conformity limit growth, and why the opposite of conformity is courage (21:09)
Building the right team early and learning to delegate as soon as possible (20:33)
Finding your unique selling proposition (USP) through consistency, passion, and iteration (1:11:06)
Actionable advice for young people: start with what you love, and don't be afraid to fail (1:01:21)

Top 3 Takeaways

Start with Passion and Develop Excellence
Begin by identifying what you love, then work intentionally to become excellent at it—this is where true entrepreneurial opportunity is found.
Test Ideas with Real People Early
Don't build in isolation; involve your target audience through conversation, co-creation, and honest feedback to ensure your ideas solve real problems.
Create an Enabling Environment
Surround yourself with positivity, supportive mentors, and a team that complements your strengths—success thrives where support and challenge coexist.

Links & Resources

Ultra Academy and Ultra Kids Club (Julian Hall's organizations)
Ken Robinson – TED Talk: "Do Schools Kill Creativity?"
Eric Ries – The Lean Startup (book)
Eckhart Tolle – The Power of Now (book)
Lord Young – Enterprise for All (report)
Entrepreneur to Ultrapreneur: 100 Ways to Up Your Game (Julian Hall's book)

Quotes

"Our ego is there to prevent us from achieving. The opposite of conformity is courage."

"Every single entrepreneur on the planet knows that whatever is in year two of your business plan is a complete myth."

"If you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life—but now, technology lets people monetize passions that were impossible before."

"Entrepreneurship is doing what you love and making some money out of it."

"The only way you'll naturally put your ego aside is if your idea is big enough; if it scares you, then it respects you."

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

How Jess Stephens Bootstrapped, Sold, and Survived in Tech and Marketing

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Tue, 03 May 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover the rollercoaster journey of entrepreneur Jess Stephens as she shares battle-tested lessons on startup survival, marketing innovation, and why betting on yourself—and your team—is a move every founder should make.

Jess Stephens, Two-time Entrepreneur, former CMO at Smart Focus

Website: [smartfocus.com (archived)]

Twitter: @JessStephensUK

What does it truly take to build, launch, and sell a tech startup—twice—without a safety net? In this unforgettable conversation, Jess Stephens reveals her remarkable path from a self-taught digital marketer to leading high-stakes acquisitions and scaling ambitious ventures. Jess offers a candid look at the mindsets, sacrifices, and decisions that shaped her entrepreneurial success, plus actionable strategies for anyone navigating the chaos of startups or marketing.

We unpack Jess’s earliest influences and the pivotal lessons that stuck: from credit card juggling to fund growth, to bean-counting every marketing pound, to trusting the intangibles that set founders apart. Jess discusses the crucial evolution from marketer to entrepreneur, her experience selling to major corporates, and what she’d change for women in tech. Along the way, she opens up about failures, the imposter syndrome, and the value of fun—alongside fortune—on the path to lasting impact.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Jess’s nontraditional route from English grad to digital marketing and entrepreneurship (04:20)
How not letting IT (and others) say “no” sparked her DIY marketing and startup mindset (05:21)
Bootstrapping tactics: credit card hopping, funding freelancers, and stretching every resource (22:34)
The origin story and exit of Tag Points, her mobile loyalty platform, and the pivotal role of PR (19:40, 21:28)
Navigating the cultural shock from startup to FTSE 250 conglomerate—and lessons learned (08:17)
Why being “first” with new tech created press attention and growth, even if it wasn’t perfect (21:38)
The power—and peril—of moving fast and pivoting, even when nothing’s perfect (27:19)
Finding inspiration (and stress relief) through obsessive reading and learning (13:07)
Overcoming gender bias and using difference as an advantage in tech (46:01)
Building a personal brand and fostering networks that drive new opportunities (35:01; 43:17)

Top 3 Takeaways

Move faster than your fear—perfection can wait, but seizing opportunity cannot.
Leverage what makes you different—use your unique perspective, skill set, or background as a competitive advantage.
Surround yourself with mentors and colleagues who will both challenge and champion you; networks are foundational to long-term success.

Links & Resources

Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman
Freakonomics by Steven D. Levitt and Stephen J. Dubner
Purple Cow by Seth Godin
One Thing by Gary Keller and Jay Papasan
David and Goliath by Malcolm Gladwell
Twitter: @JessStephensUK
Richard Wiseman – Luck research

Quotes

“There’s going to be more change in the next seven years than we experienced in the whole of the 20th century. When it’s your own business, tomorrow’s too late.”

“If I were to change the world in any way, it would be to get more women into entrepreneurship and into tech. What’s your message? What are you going to say about it? How are you going to stand out?”

“Don’t let anyone tell you no, just go and do it yourself.”

“I think my biggest mistake was when I did my first sale, I committed to an earn out, where essentially I gave the acquiring company full control. If you’re gonna sell, sell the whole thing. Otherwise, go and raise money and keep it for yourself.”

“I absolutely think I want to do it in that order: fun, fame, and fortune. Fun being the biggest percentile of that concoction.”

How to Build a Maverick Business: Event Innovation, Storytelling, and the Power of Relationships with Simon Berger

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Sat, 30 Apr 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how breaking the rules, building meaningful connections, and relentless focus can fuel entrepreneurial success in the global event industry and beyond.

Simon Berger — Founder of IM2 Group, Exhibition Innovator, Event Maverick

Web: [Company website not current]

Social: Not available

What does it really mean to be a disruptive entrepreneur, and how can you transcend mediocrity to build something remarkable? In this episode, event industry veteran Simon Berger sits down with Max to share his candid journey from washing dishes to driving Ferraris, launching global expos, and mentoring new business creators.

Simon discusses the bedrock values from his childhood that shaped his independence, his unconventional approach to entrepreneurship, and why relationships — not just transactions — are the heart of any long-lasting business. You’ll hear powerful stories from his earliest hustle days, the story behind launching and selling exhibitions across continents, and learn why both listening and storytelling are vital entrepreneurial skills. Simon also explores the ongoing evolution in how brands and businesses must build personalized value and the courage it takes to step off the beaten path.

From actionable goal-setting to the art of spotting underserved markets and cultivating genuine business partnerships, this episode delivers a masterclass for anyone seeking to think differently. Whether you're early in your career or a seasoned founder, you’ll walk away with fresh perspectives on creativity, resilience, failures, and what it means to truly succeed.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Simon traces his entrepreneurial roots from childhood lessons in independence and a refusal to conform. (04:11)
Practical approaches to building and sustaining authentic business relationships — including "selling to the person, not only the brand." (24:55)
The essential role of storytelling in business, and why listening makes you a better storyteller and leader. (21:23)
How to spot market gaps and launch successful events by adapting proven ideas for new territories. (41:05)
Candid lessons from failure, including navigating bankruptcy and the value of making mistakes on your own terms. (32:10)
The evolving landscape of sales and marketing for a new generation of customers: from B2B, to B2C, to "B2Me." (17:57)
Why cultivating focus and saying no are core to entrepreneurial discipline and avoiding burnout. (31:48)
The powerful impact of goal-setting and celebrating milestones, illustrated with vivid personal anecdotes. (1:13:41)
The significance of being a "maverick" and embracing controversy to spark innovation and stand out. (54:32)
Using smart partnerships and equity to empower entrepreneurial thinkers inside your business. (1:00:34)

Top 3 Takeaways

Build relationships that last: Genuine connections with partners, clients, and colleagues are your greatest asset. Prioritize reciprocity, authenticity, and retention over one-off wins.
Embrace mistakes as fuel: Learn from failures and see them as necessary steps on the entrepreneurial path. Make decisions bravely, and don't let fear of mistakes hold you back.
Stay relentlessly focused: Avoid spreading yourself too thin. Set clear goals, write them down, and say no to distractions so you can pour energy into what truly matters.

Links & Resources

Ways of Seeing by John Berger
The Language of Leaders by Kevin Murray
Pavegen (company founded by Lawrence Kemble-Cook)
Millennial 2020 expo (historic reference)

Quotes

“If you want to be a storyteller and a good one, then you’ve also got to be a good listener.” “Surround yourself with giants. Don’t surround yourself with people who are weak.” “Why follow the path you know? Get off the path, make your own trail and let someone follow your trail.” “Failure is the backbone of an entrepreneur.” “Be good to the people on the way up and you’ll be remembered on the way down… Just be kind.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

Inside Storytelling, Startup Culture & User-Generated Content: The Journey from Porsche to Story Stream

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Thu, 28 Apr 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover how leaving a dream job at Porsche led to building one of the most innovative content marketing platforms, and what it really takes to empower brands in the digital age.

Alex Vaidya — Founder & CEO, Story Stream. Former Head of Digital, Porsche UK.

Join host Max in an in-depth conversation with Alex Vaidya, a digital marketing and branding specialist whose journey spans from leading digital innovation at Porsche to founding Story Stream, a fast-growing startup working with giants like Nike, Microsoft, and BMW. The discussion goes beyond entrepreneurship buzzwords, offering a candid look at startup realities, the power of flexibility in work culture, and how user-generated content is transforming brand-consumer relationships.

This episode explores what it takes to build a business that prizes creativity above convention, why flexible work models and empowering culture drive innovation, and how brands can harness both their customers’ and employees’ content for authentic storytelling. Alex shares practical strategies for bringing an idea to market, the importance of transparency in startup teams, and hard-won lessons from executing at speed. Plus, get a window into Alex’s personal success routines, handling entrepreneurial stress, and building something that matters.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Alex shares why he left an enviable corporate role at Porsche to pursue entrepreneurship grounded in real-world frustrations with content marketing (10:45)
The unique startup culture at Story Stream: flexible work, transparent accountability, and a focus on empowering people to “be the best they can be” (06:31)
Building a globally recognized SaaS business from Brighton — and strategies for scaling teams while maintaining creative spirit (03:09, 05:07)
Why brands must shift from top-down messaging to stories driven by user-generated content for deeper engagement (22:08)
Lessons in merging agency and product-based business models for rapid startup growth (30:36)
The role of advocacy and employee-generated content as new frontiers in marketing (56:19)
How decision-making speed, process, and gut instinct determine startup momentum and success (39:17, 01:17:10)
Honest perspectives on fear of failure, managing stress, and why belligerence and “blind optimism” are essential entrepreneurial traits (28:27, 01:23:00)
Concrete tips for solo entrepreneurs to start authentic storytelling and community-building on any budget (58:27)
The evolving relationship between brands, technology, and the empowered “always-on” customer (41:46)
Productivity tips: why “removing treacle,” setting clear goals, and adopting tools like Slack streamline modern teams (01:14:48, 01:32:39)

Top 3 Takeaways

Building a strong business starts with empowering people: clarity, transparency in goals, and authentic freedom fuel growth and innovation, even in small teams.
Listening to your gut, learning from patterns, and acting quickly on key signals are entrepreneurial practices that speed up progress and minimize avoidable setbacks.
Brands of any size can foster genuine engagement by curating and showcasing their community’s stories—permission, collaboration, and authenticity matter more than budget or polish.

Links & Resources

Story Stream: www.storystream.it
If This Then That (IFTTT): ifttt.com
Mailchimp & TinyLetter: mailchimp.com, tinyletter.com
Magic Leap (referenced as an example of disruptive tech): magicleap.com
TED Talk: Mention of a young innovator on early cancer detection (no direct link provided)
Millennial 2020 conference: millennial20-20.com

Quotes

"You don't need large agencies, you don't need complex equipment. You can just have an iPhone and create some good content with that now. And actually it's the storytelling that's the leveler, it's not the flashiness and the distribution and that will always win out."

"One of our mantras as a business is get everyone to be the best they can be. The key is that you meet the strategic goals and objectives, and if you're not pulling your weight, it's known across the team, not just from your manager."

"Anyone who says, 'don't fear failure,' they can do one. You get more comfortable with failure—that's probably the difference. You don't think, 'I'm not fearful of it.' I've got massive amounts of blind optimism."

"What you'll find as a founder is all the stuff you're doing, which you never want to do or never thought you should do or are necessarily good at. And they're the things that trip you up or kill you early on."

"If you're going to do it, do it. Go into it with your eyes open, be prepared to be beaten around and have a lot of stress to deal with. But it's the most exciting thing you can do."

Building Resilience and Disrupting the Student Market: The James Eder Story

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 25 Apr 2016 09:00:00 +0100

What does it take to turn an idea into the UK’s top online destination for young people? Learn from a founder who took rejection, resilience, and relentless action from campus to nationwide success.

James Eder, Founder, The Beans Group (Student Beans) Twitter: @jameseder Website: studentbeans.com (may be outdated)

Join host Max as he sits down with James Eder, a visionary entrepreneur who launched Student Beans straight out of university and rapidly scaled it into the country’s leading student discount platform. In this engaging episode, James shares both the untold stories beneath the “success iceberg” and the grit it took to build a disruptive brand from scratch.

Listen as James opens up about his formative cold-calling experience, the importance of thick skin, and how he tested business ideas by literally pounding the pavement. He details how small beginnings, rapid feedback, and brand clarity propelled Student Beans to become an essential part of student life and expanded into The Beans Group—a digital community now serving millions globally. James explores the art of naming, leveraging opportunity, and why believing in your ideas (and acting fast) matters more than perfection.

Whether you’re dreaming of your first startup or looking to future-proof your own approach to entrepreneurship, James distills hard-won wisdom on testing, resilience, and growth. The insights here are lasting tools for anyone ready to turn ideas into real-world impact.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Early resilience: James credits his call center days with building the thick skin necessary to face hundreds of rejections and persist anyway.
Market testing: Launching Student Beans involved direct street-level validation, door-to-door sales, and immediate feedback from both students and business owners.
The power of a brand: Securing a name and a clear identity was critical for momentum, confidence, and sign-up success. (10:03)
MVP mentality: Building and iterating quickly—without waiting for perfection—was key to beating hesitation and capturing opportunities. (13:06)
Organic growth: Student Beans scaled without venture capital, using lean resourcefulness and creative partnerships.
Career mindset: Early entrepreneurial experiences (Young Enterprise), a family of business owners, and learning to sell from a young age built the groundwork for long-term success.
Building a team: Hiring, letting go, and empowering staff were among James’s most challenging but essential learning curves.
Vision and alignment: Defining a long-term goal and regularly realigning focus played a huge role in scaling and sustaining the business. (25:58)
Action over hesitation: James emphasizes making decisions—moving forward or adjusting—over the dangers of analysis paralysis. (45:30)
Value-led entrepreneurship: Delivering genuine value and impact for users lies at the heart of enterprise longevity and growth. (43:08)

Top 3 Takeaways

Start testing your idea before it’s “ready”—even if it’s just a landing page or a walk around the block asking for feedback.
Build your brand early; a clear name and identity give your business substance, drive, and confidence for you and your market.
Decide, act, and iterate. Don’t wait for everything to be perfect—action creates momentum, while overthinking stalls potential.

Links & Resources

Young Enterprise (UK business education program): young-enterprise.org.uk
Seth Godin, “Purple Cow”
Jim Collins, “Good to Great” and “Built to Last”
Eric Ries, “The Lean Startup”
The Naked Leader by David Taylor
The Alliance by Reid Hoffman

Quotes "You know, what if it's your idea and you believe in it and you're willing to do what other people aren't, you're gonna succeed when others won't."

"If you feel like you're ready to do it, you've probably done it too late."

"It's about having an idea and taking action, doing something with it, and surrounding yourself by the best people to make your idea a reality."

"Imagine if you couldn't fail. Who would you be, where would you go, and what would you do?"

"It's not about a work-life balance. It's just life—if you love what you do, it doesn't feel like work."

From Junior Designer to Global CEO: Dominic Edmonds on Tenacity, Creativity, and Leading Sales Cycle

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 10:30:00 +0100

Discover how relentless determination, creative problem-solving, and a refusal to play by the old rules helped Dominic Edmonds go from a junior designer in the UK to leading a global technology company.

Dominic Edmonds — Founder & CEO, SalesCycle

Twitter: @oMinikedmonds

LinkedIn: Dominic Edmonds

What does it really take to chart your own path from the ground up? In this episode, host Max sits down with Dominic Edmonds, the long-haired, tattooed founder and CEO of SalesCycle, a global technology company with a growing international footprint. Dominic shares his bold journey from art student and junior designer in Durham to building a business with offices across three continents and a client roster including the likes of Virgin Atlantic, IKEA, and Ralph Lauren.

Dominic dives deep into the role of tenacity and creative adaptability—how these core drivers shaped both his career ascent and the culture of his company. He reveals the early risks that defined SalesCycle’s commercial model, the lessons (and mistakes) of scaling a startup, and why learning to embrace challenge is key to growth. The conversation also explores the intersection of family, work-life balance, and prioritization in entrepreneurship. Whether you’re an aspiring founder or a leader looking to foster innovation within your team, Dominic’s candid stories provide actionable wisdom and reassurance that the “right way” may just be your own.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

Dominic’s unorthodox entry into digital: showing up uninvited with a printed portfolio (06:26)
How creative skills can be leveraged beyond traditional “creative” fields (09:29)
The crucial role of tenacity and persistence in job hunting and career growth (07:12, 17:08)
Making the leap from secure employment to entrepreneurship—and managing the risk (25:25, 42:24)
Building SalesCycle: developing the first proof of concept and winning the first clients (28:07)
The importance of business culture and strategies for creating an engaged, passionate team (33:26)
Why attitude trumps aptitude in hiring and the pitfalls of complacency as a leader (37:23, 45:53)
Adapting commercial models and staying relevant by listening to customers (39:00, 40:33)
Work-life balance, parenthood, and learning to prioritize what matters most (10:29, 58:37)
The enduring power of writing your own story rather than following others’ scripts (15:39)

Top 3 Takeaways

Tenacity and creative thinking are more valuable than credentials—show up and persist even when you lack direct experience.
Build a business culture where people feel ownership and autonomy; the best results come when everyone feels empowered to contribute and innovate.
Regularly step back from the daily to-do list—mental breaks, exercise, and outside perspective can lead to better decision-making and personal fulfillment.

Links & Resources

SalesCycle: www.salescycle.com (website may no longer be active)
Mark Haviland, Rakuten Marketing (mentioned as an influence)
MiniDisc players (nostalgic reference)
Barocca (Dominic’s morning routine “sponsor”)

Quotes “If you want something, you’re the only one stopping yourself from getting it. Write your own book. You know, what about doing it your way?”

“There are things in life that are more important than business. No matter what outcome is, put everything in, no regrets.”

“I truly believe if you want something, you’re the only one stopping yourself from getting it. So those early days were very much about learning the art of web design versus offline design—and tenacity.”

“We are a reasonably successful company. We have this mantra in the business called love what you do...I want everyone in the business to feel like they are owners of it, that they can help shape it.”

“The moment you think you’ve got it licked, you haven’t. Anything that’s worth fighting for, you have to fight for.”

How to Build a Disruptive Business: Lessons from Scott Saunders, CEO of Payroll Supermarket

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 09:30:00 +0100

Discover how entrepreneurial mindset, creativity, and relentless drive fuel innovative startups—even when the odds are stacked against you.

Scott Saunders, Founder & CEO of Payroll Supermarket

Former contestant on BBC’s The Apprentice (2015)

Website: payrollsupermarket.com

Twitter/Instagram: @ScottSaunders

(Handles and website may no longer be active. See disclaimer below.)

What does it take to create something truly new in a saturated marketplace? In this energizing episode, entrepreneur Scott Saunders shares his journey from childhood ventures to national TV on the BBC's The Apprentice, and finally, to launching Payroll Supermarket, the world’s first comparison engine for contractor payroll services. Host Max dives deep with Scott into the mindset and day-to-day realities behind entrepreneurial success—revealing pivotal lessons for anyone seeking to disrupt the status quo.

Scott reflects on how his early creative pursuits in dance and design, combined with hard-won lessons from sales and working for others, laid the foundation for his business approach. He opens up about the risks he took, including turning down a lucrative job to chase his startup dream, the blend of discipline and freedom he leverages, and the very real sacrifices entrepreneurship demands. Along the way, Scott shares practical routines, tools, and tactics for building personal discipline, leveraging social media, and shaping a resilient, innovative company culture.

Whether you’re an aspiring founder, creative professional, or simply someone looking to challenge conventional wisdom, Scott’s candid advice and experiences will help you reframe your own path to success.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points

The importance of stepping outside your comfort zone to spark new business ideas (00:00:01)
How creativity and discipline from the arts can translate to business and sales success (00:06:38)
Early lessons in entrepreneurship—from charging for car washes as a child to learning negotiation the hard way (00:05:57)
Scott’s process for turning a concept into a company: idea validation, research, and execution (00:16:04)
The role of written routines, physical notebooks, and daily goal-setting in Scott’s productivity (00:17:14)
Why Scott turned down a £100,000 job to pursue Payroll Supermarket, and what that pivot really required (00:23:35)
Lean startup thinking and the Kaizen approach for continuous improvement in business and life (00:34:24)
Overcoming loneliness, fear, and setbacks by focusing on micro-goals and relentless self-belief (00:27:54)
Leveraging social media to build both a personal and business brand, along with specific tactics for effective online networking (00:47:03)
The real challenges (and transformative impact) of high-profile opportunities like The Apprentice (00:52:22)
Scott’s critique of the traditional education system, and why he believes creative thinking should be more strongly encouraged (00:55:24)

Top 3 Takeaways

Break big goals into achievable milestones—use pen and paper, set daily targets, and celebrate progress to keep motivation high.
Build routines that recharge both body and mind: schedule exercise, time for creative thought, and regular self-reflection.
Don’t be afraid to reject conventional paths or play it safe; the willingness to take risks and “just try it” is essential for entrepreneurial breakthroughs.

Links & Resources

Payroll Supermarket: payrollsupermarket.com
Lean Startup by Eric Ries (recommended reading on innovation and Kaizen principles)
Kaizen and Lean Six Sigma (continuous improvement methodologies)
Instagram, LinkedIn, and other social media platforms for business networking
British Invention Show and Awards (mentioned as co-organized by Scott)
Glacier Clothing (entrepreneurial shout-out): @GlacierClothing

Quotes

“I just love the feeling of being free and doing stuff how you feel it should be done. I just find it really tough working for other people.”

“Once I got off the phone to the recruiter…I changed my LinkedIn status to CEO and Director to Payroll Supermarket. That was a big step for me.”

“If you want something, all you need to do is get a pen and paper and a book and write down your idea and just try it. At least try to make the first step.”

“Risky? Yeah. I like taking risky situations and building something from scratch…I'm married to my company. It's my baby.”

“My definition of entrepreneurship is to go against the status quo in business, having an idea and actually trying to make it happen. It's about going outside your comfort zone.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.

How to Become a Top Life Coach: Rebel Mindsets, Success Habits, and Defying Convention with Michael Serwa

Rebelhead Entrepreneurs — Mon, 11 Apr 2016 09:00:00 +0100

Discover the lessons and mindset shifts that took Michael Serwa from flat broke in Poland to one of London's most sought-after life coaches.

Guest:

Michael Serwa, Life Coach, Author of From Good to Amazing

Website: michaelserwa.com

Social: @MichaelSerwa (Facebook primary)

In this inspiring episode, host Max sits down with Michael Serwa, one of London’s highest-paid and most rebellious life coaches. Michael’s journey is anything but typical — from quitting school at 17 in Poland, working in retail and kitchens, to launching a thriving career coaching elite clients ranging from CEOs to presidential candidates. Throughout their conversation, Michael pulls back the curtain on what it takes to thrive as an entrepreneur, cultivate a “rebel” mentality, and break free from limiting beliefs.

Max and Michael dig deep into the sacrifices, hustle, and self-talk necessary for achieving your version of success. They also discuss the differences between life coaching and therapy, how to pursue what truly brings happiness, and why conventional wisdom about education and career paths often fails ambitious individuals. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, creative rebel, or simply searching for actionable ways to improve your life, this episode is packed with perspective-shifting stories and lessons.

You’ll hear Michael’s unfiltered approach to decision-making, charging what you’re worth, building confidence, and how rejection and setbacks can fuel growth. The episode also explores the habits, routines, and mindsets needed to turn bold visions into reality.

Note: This podcast is no longer active and was originally published before 2016. Links and contact details may be out of date, but the conversation still holds valuable insights today.

Key Points:

The making of a “rebel” mindset: how Michael embraced controversy and chose authenticity over approval
Why quitting school in Poland was the turning point for his independence (04:32)
The tough realities and sacrifices behind his early entrepreneurial journey in London
Making happiness the driver — why earning potential means nothing without loving what you do (00:00:01, 32:51)
The unique differences between life coaching, therapy, and counseling, and who benefits most from each approach (42:09)
Strategies for charging higher fees and knowing your worth as a coach or consultant (34:01, 36:51)
The three universal traits of high achievers: commitment, passion, and relentless hustle (57:29)
How to identify your true calling and practical questions to pinpoint purpose (51:00)
Overcoming rejection effectively and using it as fuel to “brainwash” yourself for success (16:32, 45:10)
How habits, environment, and self-talk fuel ongoing growth — and why selectively quitting is also crucial (1:11:14)

Top 3 Takeaways:

Pursue the one thing you’d choose if you could not fail and money didn’t matter — and trust the money will follow relentless dedication.
Lasting success depends on commitment, authentic passion, and a willingness to hustle — missing any one makes achievement unsustainable.
Learn to reframe failure and rejection, see them as necessary steps, and “brainwash” yourself for confidence and persistent action.

Links & Resources:

michaelserwa.com
From Good to Amazing by Michael Serwa
Jim Rohn, Zig Ziglar, Les Brown (personal development influences)
Steve Hardison (theultimatecoach.com)
Tony Robbins
Daniel Priestley, author of Entrepreneurial Revolution
CreativeLive by Chase Jarvis
Human Utopia by Graham Moore

Quotes: “I was born a fucking rebel who happened to do life coaching. What’s the point of making money if you’re not fucking happy with what you do?”

“If I could do it, so can you. I genuinely believe in people's potential.”

“Commitment, passion, and hustle. It's very hard to make it happen if any of these three is missing.”

“Life is not fair. Don’t expect life to be fair.”

“The money is the byproduct of what I do. That’s how I look at it.”

Note: This is an archive of a now-retired podcast. Links, bios, and platforms mentioned in episodes may no longer be active, but the ideas and insights are timeless.