🎙️ Founders-Meeting with Haraldur Thorleifsson aka... Halli Ueno

Come for the branding wisdom, stay for the existential honesty. In this soulful, funny, and deeply human conversation, Halli (founder of Ueno, builder of things, Icelandic legend) joins Helga for this extended podcasts episode inspired by Hallis own "walking podcast" even though it was recorded in an online studio who knows if we'll take a walk on the wild side sooner than later. Nobody knows what the future holds, or do we?

They wander through agency life, workaholism, healing, client love languages, the magic of walking, and why success can sometimes feel... empty. It's a story of a creative genius who’s learning to draw again, building for inclusion, and redefining what it means to be truly successful.

This one’s for the dreamers, the doers, and the people who’ve ever hit a wall and asked, "Now what?"

🧠 Themes We Explore:

• 🎯 The myth of success — and why it doesn’t always feel like it should
• 💥 Workaholism, pain tolerance & unlearning hustle culture
• 🎭 Therapy, self-reflection, and the masks we wear at work
• 🧩 Building brands that feel (and work) better — inside & out
• 🫶 How personal relationships shape professional wins
• 🌿 Walking, presence, and the power of doing less
• 🛠️ Designing teams, not just logos
• 🤖 What AI can’t replace — and maybe never will
• 🏛️ Legacy, impact, and living a values-led life

🧩 Mini Takeaways:

• Design affects how we feel — emotionally and culturally.
• Great branding saves time, money, and anxiety.
• Values aren’t just internal strategy; they’re cultural glue.
• Failure is not a detour — it’s the road.
• Authenticity beats aesthetics, every time.
• Workaholism is an addiction we reward. That needs to change.
• Passion and purpose are fuel; balance is the steering wheel.
• The best teams are built with ruthless clarity and deep empathy.

🌱 Halli Is Currently:

• Learning to draw daily — because it’s never too late to start over.
• Working on accessibility through nonprofit initiatives in Iceland and beyond.
• Reflecting on success, failure, and the weird in-between.
• Building meaning beyond profit.
• Making a music comeback
• Taking a walk with friends, recording it and turning it into podcasts

🌀 For Listeners Who Love:

• Honest founder stories without the fluff
• Late-night walks with deep thoughts
• Conversations that blend creativity, therapy, and tech
• A bit of Nordic wisdom with their business advice

🎧 Tune in for a reminder that:

Success is complicated. Failure is essential. And walking might just be your most underrated business tool even if you’re wheelchair bound.

Keep up and follow Halli on...

Halli's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haraldurthorleifsson/

Halli's Website: https://www.haraldurthorleifsson.com/

Halli's Podcast Labbitúr (in Icelandic, soon in English as well): https://open.spotify.com/show/45yOC0UswrzBrb20lcrIqx?si=6b185812f22843e9

Halli's Music:

https://onnujonuson.com/the-artist

https: //open.spotify.com/artist/1hSwmbp2UKVDWIKRaLQhgT?si=WB_FiwFSRg27x8Y0j1fkIw

Halli's philanthropy project Ramping up Iceland (and the world): https://www.rampur.is/

In hope that those stories 🔥 up your ass as much as it did to ours. This podcast is brought to you by SERIOUS.BUSINESS and if you struggle, rubbing off that "startup stamp" to become a market leader with head-turning branding and jaw-dropping website. Apply here for a FREE brand audit: https://serious-k9ipl8ey.scoreapp.com/questions

“Wild Horses, Wiser Roads” — with Sigurrós Eiðsdóttir

In this soulful and sharply honest conversation, we sit down with Sigurrós Eiðsdóttir, the creative mind and co-founder behind Copenhagen’s beloved Wild Horses Café & Gallery. With a name that's often mistaken for the legendary Icelandic band (yes, that Sigur Rós), Sigurrós shares how identity, creativity, and personal story shape both brand and business.

From growing up in an entrepreneurial household to navigating the layered dynamics of running a company with her partner, this episode touches on everything from sustainable fashion to emotional resilience to building a business that’s not just a café but a community hub for art, love, and coffee.

Make sure to pay them a visit next time you're in Copenhagen for some premium coffee experience and surely good "wibes."

💡 This episode is for you if you're curious about:

• Naming and personal branding when identity gets in the way
• Balancing love + business
• Self-taught fashion and deadstock magic
• Minimalism that feels human
• How creative cafes can become cultural homes
• And what it means to be a Wild Horse in today’s entrepreneurial world

✨ Key Takeaways

— A unique name can shape your brand—for better or worse

— Business with your partner? Communication is everything

— Community isn't just a buzzword, it's your business backbone

— Sustainable fashion is about values, not trends

— Navigating mental health and money struggles is part of the path

— And sometimes, the best ideas come from doing it all yourself

🔗 Mentions & Links:

Wild Horses on Instagram

Wild Horses Gallery on Instagram

Sósa fashion label in Instagram

Sigurrós on Instagram

#FoundersMeeting #CreativeEntrepreneurship #CopenhagenCafeCulture #PersonalBranding #WildHorses #SustainableFashion #BusinessAndLove #MinimalismInBusiness #Startuplife

In this episode of Founders-Meeting, we sit down with Davíð Örn, co-founder of Smitten, the dating app that’s flipping the script on how people meet online. As the youngest of five brothers and a serial entrepreneur, Davíð walks us through the highs, lows, and wild pivots of his journey — from failed ventures to launching one of the most fun and engaging dating apps out there.

Imagine an online dating experience that goes beyond the superficial swiping — where connection starts with curiosity, not just a photo. A place where you discover fun facts, quirky failures, and shared passions through playful quizzes, personality colors, and creative prompts. It's not just about who looks good, but who gets you. That’s the future Davíð Örn is building with Smitten — where dating is fun again, and the ice breaks itself.

Initially on track to become a doctor, Davíð’s mindset shifted radically after reading Rich Dad, Poor Dad, setting him on a path to build something of his own. What followed was a bumpy but enlightening ride through multiple startups before finding his stride with Smitten — a platform built not on superficial swiping, but on fun, connection, and play.

💡 Whether you’re building an app, starting a company, or just fascinated by how ideas become products, this conversation is full of real, raw entrepreneurial insight.

• Davíð’s origin story: from med school dreams to startup reality
• How failures and pivots shaped his approach to building
• What makes Smitten different from Tinder, Bumble, and other dating apps
• Why fun is the secret ingredient to creating real connections
• The challenges of scaling a dating app — and why critical mass matters
• Fundraising in today’s economic climate — and staying resilient when VC money is tight

• Resilience is the secret weapon in startup life.
• Creating joy in your product can lead to deeper user engagement.
• Market timing and trust with users are just as important as features.
• There’s value in not doing what everyone else is doing — especially in saturated spaces like dating.

Mentioned in This Episode:

• Smitten Website

Download the smitten app here...

• Smitten on AppStore
• Smitten on Google Play

Companies mentioned in this episode:

• Smitten
• Tinder
• Bumble
• Hints
• Silicon Valley
• Makers Fund

founders meeting, startup journey, Smitten app, online dating innovation, entrepreneurship insights, dating app design, startup failures, Icelandic founders, user experience, VC fundraising, Gen Z dating trends, startup resilience, playful UX, tech founders, marketing in tech, emotional design, early-stage startups

🎙️ What really goes into building a podcast that stands out? Spoiler: It’s more than a mic and a dream. (You need a punk!)

In this episode of Founders-Meeting, Helga sits down with the brilliant (and refreshingly honest) Kane, founder of Precision Podcasting, to chat about the real journey behind the mic — the wins, the fails, and all the magic in between.

Kane brings the vibes and the value, sharing how podcasting has gone from a niche nerd-fest to a playground for creators, founders, and communities looking to build something meaningful. He breaks down why audio quality matters, how connection is everything, and what it actually takes to build a podcast that people don’t just listen to — but love.

👂 Expect insights like:

- Why podcasting is the perfect mix of creativity + business

- How to turn your early flops into future wins (yes, failures included)

- What it really means to find your voice and your people

- The power of community in building something that lasts

- Why niche is the new mainstream

From awkward beginnings to audio mastery, Kane’s story is packed with real talk and golden takeaways — especially if you’ve been flirting with the idea of starting your own pod (or taking yours to the next level).

So whether you're a founder, a creator, or just podcast-curious — this one's for you. Tap in, tune up, and let’s go beyond the buzzwords. 🚀🎧

Links referenced in this episode:

Excited to start a conversation with Kane about your podcast production? Find and connect with Kane and Precision Podcasting...

• Precision Podcasting Website
• The Podcasters Club Podcast
• Kane Power on LinkedIn

Also, if anyone is excited to hear and follow Kane's and Ruth's music band, Team Squad

• Team Squad on Spotify
• Team Squad on Instagram

In this conversation, Helga interviews Stefano Sacchi, the founder of Epic Llama, a company dedicated to creating unique and meaningful social experiences. Stefano shares his journey as a third culture kid, his entrepreneurial spirit, and the evolution of Epic Llama over the past decade.

He discusses the importance of fostering genuine connections, the challenges of running an unconventional business, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the need for more playful and engaging social interactions in today's world.

In this conversation, Helga and Stefano Sacchi explore the nuances of hosting and community building in a digital age. They discuss the impact of social isolation on social skills, the art of hosting, and the importance of creating memorable experiences.

Stefano shares insights on the challenges of being a digital nomad, the significance of initiating connections, and practical tools for enhancing team interactions. The discussion also touches on cultural insights regarding meaningful conversations and the power of connection before content.

Takeaways:

• Some people just have more fun, but how?
• Stefano, founder of Epic Llama, highlights the importance of human connection in today's world.
• His unique approach to community building fosters genuine relationships through engaging, intentional experiences.
• Carefully designed events promote personal growth and deeper connections.
• Listeners are encouraged to embrace vulnerability and creativity to cultivate meaningful interactions.
• The challenges of sustaining community as a digital nomad are explored, emphasizing the need for consistent, intentional gatherings.
• The episode concludes with a call to prioritize authentic relationships in both personal and professional life.

Get involved with the Epic Lama community

• Epic Llama Website
• Become an Epic Host
• Follow Epic Lama on Instagram

Keywords.

founders podcast, entrepreneurial strategies, community building, meaningful connections, events company, human connection, networking experiences, playful interactions, social gatherings, unique event ideas, motivational stories, personal growth, unconventional business, small talk alternatives, adult play events, life-changing experiences, experiential learning, online community engagement, digital nomad lifestyle, creative networking

In this conversation, Matt Watkins, founder of Special Studio, shares his journey as a sustainability-driven entrepreneur. He discusses the importance of rethinking manufacturing processes, the role of 3D printing, and the significance of using recycled materials. Matt reflects on his childhood interests in making things, his experiences in the tech industry, and the pivotal moments that led to the creation of Special Studio. He emphasizes the need for authenticity and depth in branding, drawing inspiration from dystopian aesthetics in films like Blade Runner. In this conversation, the speaker discusses the significance of authenticity in branding, the unconventional path of entrepreneurship, and the importance of learning through trial and error. They emphasize the need for honesty in business practices, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the value of surrounding oneself with supportive and competent individuals. The speaker shares personal insights from their journey in building a sustainable manufacturing business, highlighting the evolving consumer awareness towards local production and sustainability.

Biggest Insights

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Sustainability and Innovation

03:07 Matt's Early Influences and Entrepreneurial Journey

05:57 The Birth of Special Studio

08:59 The Aha Moment: Rethinking Manufacturing

12:02 Financing and Business Model of Special Studio

15:02 Brand Aesthetics and Influences

19:05 Depth and Authenticity in Branding

31:42 The Importance of Authenticity in Branding

37:54 The Unconventional Entrepreneurial Journey

45:00 Learning Through Trial and Error

53:53 Balancing Work and Family Life

Special Studio Website: https://specialstudio.co/

Special Studio Insstagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialstudio.official

MAtt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pomattwatkins/

In this episode, we chat with Bart, a Paris-based entrepreneur and founder of Sorbey, a digital platform transforming the way we connect with food and community. Born out of frustration with cluttered, ad-heavy food platforms, Sorbey is on a mission to create a seamless, ad-free, and educational experience for home cooks and food lovers.

Bart’s journey into entrepreneurship is anything but conventional. After feeling disconnected from traditional education, he found his passion in food and culture—and used it to fuel his venture. Sorbey isn’t just a recipe manager; it’s a vibrant hub where culinary enthusiasts can learn, share, and build a healthier relationship with food.

In our conversation, Bart opens up about the challenges and rewards of starting a food-tech business, the creative ways he’s building a sustainable business model, and the importance of adaptability in entrepreneurship. He also emphasizes how Sorbey’s evolving community-driven focus makes cooking more accessible, joyful, and mindful.

Join us as we explore Bart’s inspiring journey, the future of food innovation, and what it takes to build a platform that truly puts users first. 🥗✨

Takeaways:

• Bart, a Paris-based entrepreneur, discusses his venture Sorbet, emphasizing accessibility in food culture.
• The Sorbet platform aims to streamline recipe management, promoting a clutter-free cooking experience.
• Bart highlights the importance of resilience and adaptability in the entrepreneurial journey of building Sorbet.
• The episode underscores the connection between food, community, and personal well-being, advocating for healthier eating habits.

Join the community, get organised, and share the food love...

• Sorbey Website
• Sorbey on Instagram
• Bart on LinkedIn

This podcast episode features an enlightening discussion with the lovely Claire Siegert, co-founder of Businettes, where she elucidates the intricacies of building a supportive community for female entrepreneurs.

Claire elaborates on her professional journey, illustrating how her past experiences shaped her understanding of the challenges that women face in the entrepreneurial sector. The narrative emphasises the importance of collaboration, mentorship, and shared experiences among women, challenging the traditional narrative that often pits female entrepreneurs against each other.

Claire's commitment to creating a supportive ecosystem is evident as she details the resources offered by Businettes, including workshops and networking opportunities designed to empower women at various stages of their entrepreneurial journeys.

This episode serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of community in overcoming barriers and achieving success in business, inspiring listeners to embrace collaboration as a means to foster growth and innovation.

Takeaways:

• The podcast emphasises the significance of persistence in the entrepreneurial journey, particularly in the face of adversity.

• Claire Siegert reflects on the necessity of having co-founders in business ventures to share responsibilities and enhance decision-making.

• The discussion highlights the importance of community among female entrepreneurs, showcasing how Businettes aims to empower women in business.

• The notion of 'killing your darlings' is explored, where founders must let go of unsuccessful projects to focus on viable opportunities.

• The episode illustrates the challenges women face in entrepreneurship, particularly in gaining recognition and support from male-dominated networks.

• Listeners are encouraged to take breaks and reflect on their journeys, emphasising mental health and well-being in the entrepreneurial process.

Check it out! Get involved and join the Businettes community:

• Businettes page: https://www.businettes.com/ 
• Businettes Summit page: https://www.businettes.com/de/female-founders-summit 

Find and get in touch with Claire Siegert here on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-siegert/

In this episode, we dive into the entrepreneurial journey of Antonio Gomez, co-founder of Tryp, Mexico’s pioneering cannabis marketplace. Antonio shares insights from his experiences at Uber and Revolut, revealing the challenges and opportunities of launching a business in a newly legalized, highly regulated market.

We explore the evolving legal landscape of cannabis in Mexico, the societal perceptions surrounding its use, and the importance of education in shaping responsible consumption. Antonio discusses the personal and professional hurdles of entering a controversial industry, the skepticism founders often face, and the strategies Trip is using to build consumer trust.

✅ Entering a controversial industry means overcoming skepticism—even from friends and family.

✅ Understanding local regulations is crucial when launching in emerging markets.

✅ The Mexican cannabis industry is evolving, but complex regulations remain a major hurdle.

✅ Education and awareness are essential to ensuring safe cannabis consumption.

✅ Founders need a strong, complementary team to navigate industry challenges.

✅ Consumer trust is key—transparency and safety measures are critical to success.

• Check out Trip: https://www.tryp.mx/
• Get in touch with: Antonio Gomez on LinkedIn

Revolutionizing Sound with Martin: The Transformative Power of 3D Audio

Martin’s journey into the world of spatial audio is as inspiring as it is innovative. With a bold vision and a passion for immersive sound, Martin has become a pioneer in the field, exploring how 3D audio can transform industries and elevate human experiences.

In this episode, Martin takes us behind the scenes of his work, sharing how 3D audio can revolutionize sectors like healthcare—where calming soundscapes can aid patient recovery—and education, where immersive audio creates groundbreaking learning opportunities. He also highlights the art of crafting tailored audio experiences, from conceptualization to execution, revealing how sound can become a tool for connection and storytelling.

The conversation is packed with insights on experimenting with audio technologies, the emotional impact of sound, and the importance of pushing creative boundaries. Martin’s story is a testament to the power of curiosity, bravery, and specialized expertise in shaping the future of sound.

Plus, a special challenge from Martin to our listeners! Take a deep dive into spatial audio—experiment, explore, and embrace the magic of sound. Whether you're a content creator, filmmaker, or brand builder, this is your sign to elevate your projects with the transformative power of 3D audio.

Key Topics in This Episode:

• How going against the grain, narrowing down, and specialising takes a lot of strength and courage
• I always wanted to become a Professional Football player
• What is the so-called spatial, 3d sound and immersive audio
• My parents were in doubt about the path I was taking
• The emotional and psychological impact of sound
• Revolutionizing industries with 3D audio, from healthcare to education
• Embracing trial and error to explore new creative possibilities
• How brands like Apple and Dolby Atmos are leading the charge in audio innovation
• The art of storytelling through immersive sound
• Networking and relationship-building are critical for creative professionals.

Want to know more or work with VRtonung:

Website: VRtonung Website

Connect with Martin:

LinkedIn: Martin Rieger on LinkedIn

Instagram: Martin on Instagram

Listen now and be inspired by Martin’s journey into the incredible world of 3D audio!