Founders Unplugged

By Greg McCallum

Founders Unplugged is a web series capturing long-form conversations with founders, entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world.... more

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FAQs about Founders Unplugged:

How many episodes does Founders Unplugged have?

The podcast currently has 158 episodes available.

Founders Unplugged episodes:

September 01, 2024Mastering Productization: Strategies for B2B Service Providers w Eisha Armstrong - S3 E6 P1
Join host Greg McCallum in part one of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he converses with Eisha Armstrong, co-founder and executive chair of Vecteris. Dive into the world of productization and learn how B2B service companies can transform their offerings into scalable, standardized products.
In this segment, Eisha shares her journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and rewards of building a company focused on helping businesses productize their services. Gain insights into the mindset shifts required for successful productization and the importance of overcoming fear in business leadership.
Key Highlights:
The concept of productization and its benefits for B2B services
Eisha's transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship
The role of fear in business decision-making
Building a company culture that aligns with personal values
The importance of self-reflection and personal growth for leaders
Whether you're a service provider looking to scale, an entrepreneur seeking to build a more efficient business model, or simply curious about the intersection of services and products, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Eisha's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in business transformation.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
03:52 Defining Productization
15:29 Mindset Shifts for Productization
28:04 Books on Productization
34:35 Building Company Culture
46:33 Overcoming Fear in Business
Thanks for watching part one of this conversation with Eisha. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on part two. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!
Follow Eisha here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eishatierneyarmstrong/
Check out Vecteris here: https://www.vecteris.com/
Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg McCallum?
Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/
...more
1h
August 28, 2024Navigating Due Diligence and Web3 Innovations with Gareth Hawkins | Founders Unplugged S3 E5 P2
Join host Greg McCallum in part two of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he continues his conversation with Gareth Hawkins, investor and co-founder of BizCrunch. Dive deeper into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship through acquisition and gain insights into the due diligence process that can make or break a deal.
In this segment, Gareth discusses the common pitfalls in due diligence, the importance of a well-structured data room, and how BizCrunch is preparing business owners for successful exits. Learn about the challenges of succession planning and the innovative solutions BizCrunch offers to streamline the acquisition process. Gareth also shares his experiences with BlockDojo, a Web3 incubator, and the exciting potential of blockchain technologies beyond cryptocurrencies and NFTs.
Key Highlights:
-The impact of due diligence on startup valuations
-How BizCrunch helps businesses prepare for sale
-The role of BlockDojo in nurturing Web3 startups
-Insights into the angel investing landscape
-Common mistakes founders make with investors
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the world of business acquisitions, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Gareth's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of entrepreneurship.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:08 Due Diligence Pitfalls
06:42 Preparing for Business Exits
14:57 BlockDojo and Web3 Innovations
29:37 Future of Blockchain Technologies
37:43 Insights into Angel Investing
Thanks for watching part two of this conversation with Gareth. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!
Follow Gareth here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-hawkins/
Check out Block Dojo here: https://blockdojo.io/
and BizCrunch here: https://www.bizcrunch.co/
Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?
Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/
...more
1h 5min
August 25, 2024Navigating Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition with Gareth Hawkins S3 E5 P1
Join host Greg McCallum in part one of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he sits down with Gareth Hawkins, Investor, and co-founder of BizCrunch, to explore the dynamic world of entrepreneurship through acquisition.
In this conversation, Gareth shares his journey from the metal fabrication industry to becoming a pivotal figure in the entrepreneurship space. Discover the intricacies of acquiring businesses, the challenges of succession planning, and the innovative solutions BizCrunch offers to streamline the acquisition process.
Key Highlights:
-Gareth's career evolution from sales director to co-founder of BizCrunch.
-The concept of entrepreneurship through acquisition and its growing importance in the UK.
-Challenges faced by small and medium businesses in succession planning and the potential economic impact.
-The role of business schools and government schemes in promoting entrepreneurship through acquisition.
-Insights into the dynamics of team building and the importance of diverse skill sets in successful ventures.
Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the world of business acquisitions, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Gareth's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of entrepreneurship.
Subscribe to our channel for more episodes of Founders Unplugged and stay updated on the latest trends and insights from industry leaders.
Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
03:09 Gareth's Journey and Career Background
06:14 Understanding Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition
12:26 Challenges in the UK Market
21:07 The Role of Business Education
29:10 Turnaround Opportunities in Business
36:51 Team Dynamics and Leadership
Thanks for watching part one of this conversation with Gareth. Part two will be out in a few days.
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you in Part Two!
Follow Gareth here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-hawkins/
Check out Block Dojo here: https://blockdojo.io/
and BizCrunch here: https://www.bizcrunch.co/
Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?
Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/
...more
1h 2min
August 21, 2024Collaboration Over Competition & The Importance of Practical Advice: Ollie Collard - S3 E4 P2
Founders Unplugged: Part Two with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard
Check out part One here: https://youtu.be/qcGxs7IjnKI
Welcome back to Part Two of this insightful episode of Founders Unplugged! Our host, Greg McCallum, continues his deep dive with the inspiring Ollie Tiramuragan Collard, an experienced entrepreneur and podcaster. In this segment, they explore more about Ollie's journey, the realities of entrepreneurship, and valuable insights for founders.
Episode Breakdown and Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
02:00 - The Evolution of Founded and Grounded
05:00 - The Challenges of Entrepreneurship
08:00 - Mental Health and Support Systems
12:00 - Collaboration Over Competition
15:00 - Future Plans for Founded and Grounded
18:00 - The Reality of Business Support
22:00 - The Importance of Practical Advice
25:00 - The Power of Consistency
30:00 - Personal Stories and Struggles
35:00 - The Intersection of Sales and Marketing
40:00 - Advice for Aspiring Podcasters
45:00 - Closing Thoughts
Thank you for tuning in to Part Two of this enlightening episode of Founders Unplugged with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard. We hope you found this conversation as inspiring and insightful as we did. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!
Follow Ollie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivercollard/
Check out the Founded and Grounded podcast hosted by Ollie here:
https://www.enterpriseorchard.co.uk/podcast
Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?
Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/
...more
1h 2min
August 18, 2024The Reality of Entrepreneurship & The Importance of Mental Health: Ollie Collard - S3 E4 P1
Founders Unplugged: Part One with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard
Welcome to Part One of this exciting episode of Founders Unplugged! In this series, our charismatic host, Greg McCallum, dives deep into the journeys of inspiring entrepreneurs, uncovering the raw and unfiltered realities of startup life. This episode features the dynamic Ollie Tiramuragan Collard, a seasoned entrepreneur and podcaster with over 14 years of experience in the startup ecosystem.
Episode Breakdown and Chapters
00:00 - Introduction
01:30 - Ollie's Background
04:00 - Early Influences
06:30 - The Podcasting Journey
10:00 - The Power of Storytelling
12:00 - Podcast Format and Evolution
15:00 - Collaboration Over Competition
18:00 - The Reality of Entrepreneurship
20:00 - The Importance of Mental Health
25:00 - Future Plans
30:00 - Closing Thoughts
Thank you for tuning in to Part One of this enlightening episode of Founders Unplugged with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we dive even deeper into Ollie's insights and experiences.
Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you in Part Two!
Follow Ollie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivercollard/
Check out the Founded and Grounded podcast hosted by Ollie here:
https://www.enterpriseorchard.co.uk/podcast
Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?
Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.
👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/
...more
58min
August 14, 2024The Loneliness of Leadership & Remote Work VS Culture: Paul Hetherington - S3 E3 P2
Founders Unplugged - Part Two with Paul Hetherington
Check out Part One of this conversation here: https://youtu.be/a6CNZariEVY
Welcome to Part Two of this episode of Founders Unplugged! Join our host, Greg McCallum, as he continues his engaging conversation with Paul Hetherington, a seasoned Vistage Chair and non-executive director. Founders Unplugged is a podcast where we explore the journeys and insights of successful founders and business leaders, providing listeners with valuable lessons and inspiration.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 - Introduction
01:07 - Paul's Journey and Role at Vistage (Continued)
05:36 - Offshore Solar and Legislative Changes (Continued)
Paul delves deeper into his involvement with Offshore Solar Limited and the engineering challenges.
14:05 - Understanding the Role of a Non-Executive Director (Continued)
20:59 - Differences Between Consultants, Advisors, and NEDs (Continued)
28:41 - The Loneliness of Leadership (Continued)
33:16 - Helping Founders Solve Problems (Continued)
43:20 - The Format of NED Roles (Continued)
51:38 - Paul's Background and Career Journey
59:51 - Transition from Sales to Customer Services
1:12:23 - The Importance of Communication
1:30:29 - Remote Work and Company Culture
1:50:36 - Nurturing Entrepreneurial Spirit in Companies
1:54:48 - Pursuing an MBA as an Adult Learner
Thank you for tuning into Part Two of this insightful episode with Paul Hetherington on Founders Unplugged. We hope you enjoyed the conversation and gained valuable insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to the forefront. See you in the next episode!
Follow Paul here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhetherington/
Check out Vistage here: https://vistage.co.uk/
...more
1h 1min
August 11, 2024Diversity of Thought VS DEI and what is an NED: Paul Hetherington - S3 E3 P1
Founders Unplugged - Part One with Paul Hetherington
Welcome to Part One of this episode of Founders Unplugged! Join our host, Greg McCallum, as he sits down with Paul Hetherington, a seasoned Vistage Chair and non-executive director, to dive into the world of leadership, entrepreneurship, and business strategy. Founders Unplugged is a podcast where we explore the journeys and insights of successful founders and business leaders, providing listeners with valuable lessons and inspiration.
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 - Introduction
01:07 - Walking Meetings and Personal Growth
03:36 - Paul's Journey and Role at Vistage
05:36 - Non-Executive Director Roles
07:57 - Getting Involved with Vistage
14:05 - Offshore Solar and Legislative Changes
20:59 - Understanding the Role of a Non-Executive Director
28:41 - Differences Between Consultants, Advisors, and NEDs
33:16 - The Loneliness of Leadership
43:20 - Helping Founders Solve Problems
51:38 - The Format of NED Roles
Thank you for tuning into Part One of this engaging episode with Paul Hetherington on Founders Unplugged. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we continue our conversation and delve deeper into Paul's experiences and insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to the forefront. See you in the next episode!
Follow Paul here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhetherington/
Check out Vistage here: https://vistage.co.uk/
...more
53min
August 07, 2024The Startup Ecosystem "Circus", Finding Advisors and more w/ Phil McSweeney - S3 E2 P2
FounderCatalyst is delighted to offer a 10% discount for listeners of Founders Unplugged. Get your discount here: https://2ly.link/1zDIJ
Welcome to Founders Unplugged, the podcast where we dive deep into the minds of successful entrepreneurs and investors. In this episode, host Greg McCallum sits down with Phil McSweeney, a seasoned angel investor and startup advisor, to discuss his journey, insights, and advice for aspiring founders. Tune in to hear Phil's thoughts on the startup ecosystem, the importance of finding the right advisors, and the challenges of raising funds.
In this second part of the conversation, we discuss:
1:00:00 - Start of Part 2 - Switching gears to the startup ecosystem
1:01:09 - The need for investment in deep tech and long-term projects
1:03:41 - Hybrid approaches to funding deep tech
1:07:10 - Timing and strategies for seeking VC money
1:09:21 - Exceptions in early-stage VC funding
1:10:20 - The "circus" of the startup ecosystem
1:12:27 - Breaking down the circus: Founders, investors, and advisors
1:20:42 - Navigating the startup circus
1:25:01 - Educating founders and offering pro bono advice
1:29:28 - What investors look for in exciting ideas
1:31:36 - Examples of disruptive innovations and market trends
1:35:08 - Avoiding "me too" ideas and focusing on future-shaping innovations
1:37:03 - The state of AI investments
1:39:45 - Phil's primary interest in MedTech
1:43:43 - Selling health tech to the NHS
1:47:05 - Key attributes to look for in an advisor
1:53:27 - Understanding advisor motivations
1:54:44 - Phil's next book project
1:57:11 - Parting words and final thoughts
Learn more about Phil and his services at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-mcsweeney/
Check out AngelThink and buy Phil's book here: https://angelthink.co/
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this content valuable!
...more
52min
August 04, 2024Investor Explains Fundraising Basics: Phil McSweeney - S3 E2 P1
FounderCatalyst is delighted to offer a 10% discount for listeners of Founders Unplugged. Get your discount here: https://2ly.link/1zDIJ
In this episode of Founders Unplugged, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Phil McSweeney, an accomplished Angel Investor and the Founder of AngelThink. AngelThink is Phil's initiative aimed at helping more founders raise funds and succeed in their entrepreneurial journeys. Through his book, "Angel Think," and his mentorship, Phil shares valuable insights and strategies for navigating the investment landscape.
In Part 1 of our conversation, we delve into Phil's background and explore the following key topics:
1:04 - Phil McSweeney introduces himself
2:23 - Phil's mission to help exceptional founders
3:42 - What motivates Phil McSweeney
5:00 - Non-executive director (NED) roles explained
9:34 - Phil's favorite aspects of his work
10:55 - Writing and promoting "Angel Think"
12:47 - The importance of understanding how angels think
17:11 - Challenges of cold outreach
22:40 - Networking and building relationships
27:06 - Building a network of investors
30:49 - The importance of patience in fundraising
33:28 - Challenges of finding the right networking events
37:17 - Tips for asking for investor recommendations
40:29 - The importance of social skills in networking
44:21 - Identifying future leaders and CEOs
48:10 - Key qualities of successful founders
52:28 - The importance of team in early-stage startups
56:25 - Leadership qualities and assembling a team
Learn more about Phil and his services at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-mcsweeney/
Check out AngelThink and buy Phil's book here: https://angelthink.co/
Part 2 is out on Wednesday!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this content valuable!
...more
53min
July 31, 2024Digital Poverty and Technological Inequality w/ Barney Durrant - S3 E1 P2
FounderCatalyst is delighted to offer a 10% discount for listeners of Founders Unplugged. Get your discount here: https://2ly.link/1zDIJ
Join us for part two of our insightful conversation with Barney Durrant, founder of Bluebell Marketing and former Google employee.
In this episode, Barney delves deeper into the world of digital marketing, AI, and the future of technology.
Timestamps:
0:00 - Recap and introduction to part two
2:15 - The impact of AI on search engines and digital marketing
18:30 - The future of AI in marketing and potential challenges
33:45 - Digital poverty and technological inequality
39:20 - Generational differences in technology adoption
44:55 - The impact of digitization on essential services
50:10 - The importance of remembering diverse user needs
55:30 - The need for inclusive design in technology
1:01:15 - Potential for future discussions on digital inclusion
1:05:40 - Closing remarks and contact information
Learn more about Barney and his services at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barneydurrant/
Check out Bluebird Marketing here: https://bluebell.marketing/
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this content valuable!
...more
1h

FAQs about Founders Unplugged:

How many episodes does Founders Unplugged have?

The podcast currently has 158 episodes available.