• Sponsored by FounderCatalyst
• Get 5% off their services via this link:
• https://2ly.link/1zDIJ

• 
  
• In Part Two of Greg’s conversation with Matt Copley—Co-Founder and CRO of HRIZN—the discussion shifts from startup origin stories to the often-ignored but mission-critical topic of management. Together, they explore why most founders struggle with people leadership, how AI is transforming roles, and why culture, execution, and curiosity are now more important than ever. The episode then shifts into a thoughtful look at parenting in a hyper-digital world, raising kids with critical thinking, and how gaming and media shape young minds today.
• 
  
• 🎧 In this episode:
• 
  
• Why great managers are great listeners
• 
  
• The real link between management and execution
• 
  
• How AI is changing the future of leadership
• 
  
• The risks of founder hype without follow-through
• 
  
• Culture as a retention tool—and a public reputation
• 
  
• Parenting in the age of TikTok, games, and quantum computing
• 
  
• Why curiosity is the last great human advantage
• 
  
• This is a wide-ranging conversation that blends business, leadership, technology, and parenting—all through the lens of someone building at the edge of AI and human potential.
• 
  
• Learn more about Matt and HRIZN:
• https://hrizn.io/
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewcopley/
• 
  
• Book a free 1-hour advisory session with host Greg McCallum:
• https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

This episode is proudly sponsored by FounderCatalyst.Get 5% off their services by clicking this link:https://2ly.link/1zDIJ-------------------------------------------------------------------

Matt Copley—Co-Founder and CRO of HRIZN (Horizon)—joins Greg McCallum to share the highs, lows, and aha moments of building a generative AI platform in the automotive industry. From growing up rebellious to navigating career pivots, Matt opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of entrepreneurship, why asking for help matters, and how execution always trumps ideas.

🎧 In this episode:

• The evolution of vehicle acquisition platforms

• Navigating burnout, layoffs, and reinvention

• Bootstrapping vs. outside capital

• Why continuous onboarding keeps customers loyal

• The hidden emotional cost of startup life—and how to survive it

• The power of support systems in business and at home

Whether you're a founder, operator, or just startup-curious, this is a raw and practical look at what it really takes to build something meaningful.

Follow Founders Unplugged for more honest founder conversations and deep dives into startup growth, innovation, and human resilience.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

• Follow Matt on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewcopley/
• Check out HRIZN here:https://hrizn.io/
• Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum? 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

• This episode is proudly sponsored by AppUnite.
• 
  
• The right dev partner can make or break your product. AppUnite embeds with your team to build apps that scale.
• Learn more 👉 https://bit.ly/3FCHQlm
• 
  
• --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• This is Part Two of the conversation with Jordan. Check out Part One here: https://youtu.be/QwTAVariPKA
• --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• 
  
• In Part 2, Greg McCallum and Jordan Schlipf dive into the realities of career transitions, energy management, and the future of work. Jordan shares the lessons learned after stepping back from Rainmaking, highlighting why taking real time off was critical for recharging, finding direction, and reassessing priorities.
• They explore the evolution of the podcast and creator economy, how AI is reshaping industries like venture capital and corporate strategy, and the risks and opportunities this rapid change creates.
• Jordan also discusses the challenges of building meaningful businesses in the creator era, how to leverage distribution advantage, and why the future belongs to founders and operators who master AI tools early.
• This episode is packed with practical insights on career design, entrepreneurship, and staying ahead in an AI-driven world.
• 
  
• Chapters
• 00:00 Navigating Life After Raymaking
• 02:58 The Importance of Energy Management
• 05:56 Finding Direction in Career Transitions
• 09:13 Exploring New Opportunities in Business
• 11:56 Leveraging Experience for Future Success
• 14:52 The Evolving Podcast Industry and Business Models
• 17:52 Innovative Approaches in the Creator Economy
• 29:43 Navigating the Podcasting Landscape
• 30:54 The Role of AI in Venture Capital
• 31:47 Exploring AI Tools and Their Impact
• 33:30 The Future of AI in Productivity
• 36:00 The K-Shaped Economy and AI's Role
• 40:26 Leveraging AI for Enhanced Efficiency
• 43:45 The Future of AI in Education and Training
• 
  
• --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• 
  
• Follow Jordan on LinkedIn here:
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-schlipf-0b855174/
• 
  
• 
  
• Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?
• 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
• https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd
• 
  
• Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights
• Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2
• 
  
• #FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #haatch #crowdcube #crowdfunding #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

• This episode is proudly sponsored by AppUnite.
• 
  
• The right dev partner can make or break your product. AppUnite embeds with your team to build apps that scale.
• Learn more 👉 https://bit.ly/3FCHQlm
• 
  
• --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• 
  
• In this episode, Jordan Schlipf shares the raw lessons from building 15+ startups, leading a venture studio, and working with major corporates.
• He reveals why most startup studios fail, how corporate partnerships can kill great ventures, and why many founders struggle to scale with their businesses.
• Greg McCallum and Jordan also unpack the three types of founders, how personal identity can sabotage success, and why protecting your downside is just as important as chasing your dreams.
• If you’re a founder, operator, or investor, this conversation is packed with real-world insights you won't hear in typical startup hype.
• 
  
• Chapters
• 00:00 Introduction to Jordan Schlipf's Journey
• 02:49 Transitioning from Founder to Investor
• 06:09 The Startup Studio Model Explained
• 09:05 Experiences at Rainmaking
• 12:02 Challenges in Corporate Partnerships
• 14:55 The Reality of Corporate Behaviour
• 17:58 Lessons Learned from the Venture Studio Model
• 20:47 The Importance of Founder-Corporate Alignment
• 24:05 Navigating the Founder Journey Post-Acquisition
• 36:20 Understanding Founder Archetypes
• 37:53 The Ego and Identity of Founders
• 38:57 Balancing Personal and Business Interests
• 39:58 Building Sustainable Organisations
• 41:22 The Choice of Entrepreneurship
• 43:40 The Drive to Change the World
• 45:52 The Reality of Entrepreneurship Risks
• 48:36 Downside Protection in Business
• 49:56 Learning and Growth in Early Entrepreneurship
• 52:07 Types of Entrepreneurship
• 55:01 The Value of Diverse Experiences
• 58:18 The Importance of Seeking Guidance
• 
  
• Subscribe for Part 2 where Jordan shares what’s next and lessons for future founders!
• 
  
• --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
• 
  
• Follow Jordan on LinkedIn here:
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-schlipf-0b855174/
• 
  
• 
  
• Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?
• 👇👇👇👇👇👇👇
• https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd
• 
  
• Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights
• Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2
• 
  
• #FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #haatch #crowdcube #crowdfunding #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

This episode is proudly sponsored by AppUnite.

The right dev partner can make or break your product. AppUnite embeds with your team to build apps that scale.

Learn more 👉 https://bit.ly/3FCHQlm

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In this dynamic conversation, Greg McCallum and Jonathan Keeling (JK) dive deep into the unique founder-centric approach of Haatch investment fund and explore the misunderstood world of crowdfunding. JK reveals how Haatch differentiates itself through tactical support and meaningful portfolio engagement, while debunking common misconceptions about crowdfunding—from the myth of "unsophisticated investors" to showcasing remarkable success stories like Chip's £58 million raise from over 65,000 people.

The discussion examines how community-driven investment creates emotional connections that traditional funding can't match, with JK offering practical advice for founders navigating these waters. They also tackle pressing challenges in the startup ecosystem, including talent acquisition (with examples of startups receiving thousands of applications for single positions), the growing impact of AI on entry-level jobs, and the UK's tendency to "build up founders just to tear them down." Throughout, JK shares candid insights from his work with notable entrepreneurs including James Watt, offering listeners a rare glimpse into how successful businesses are leveraging community capital to fuel sustainable growth.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hatch and Brand Perception

03:00 The Role of Founders in Investment

05:55 Understanding the SEIS Fund Structure

08:59 Tips for Aspiring Founders

12:10 Misunderstandings in Crowdfunding

14:58 The Evolution of Crowdfunding

17:54 Community Engagement in Crowdfunding

20:56 Challenges of Crowdfunding for Founders

24:09 Identifying Suitable Sectors for Crowdfunding

27:08 Common Misconceptions about Crowdfunding

28:48 The Evolution of Crowdfunding and Investment Strategies

32:13 Introducing Edge: A New Approach to Crowdfunding

36:48 James Watt: The Visionary Behind BrewDog

39:43 The Role of Entrepreneurs in Society

45:56 Talent Acquisition Challenges in Startups

51:44 The Impact of AI on Entry-Level Jobs

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Follow JK on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankeeling/

Check out Haatch here:

https://haatch.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #haatch #crowdcube #crowdfunding #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

This episode is proudly sponsored by AppUnite.

The right dev partner can make or break your product. AppUnite embeds with your team to build apps that scale.

Learn more 👉 https://bit.ly/3FCHQlm

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this insightful conversation with Jonathan Keeling (JK), we explore his journey from CrowdCube executive to partner at Haatch and founder of Edge. JK shares his experience scaling CrowdCube to £14M revenue before venturing into entrepreneurship, where he worked with startups like Winefy as fractional CCO. He reveals the backstory of House of Unicorns, the TV show concept with Brewdog's James Watt that aims to bring authentic startup stories to television.

JK candidly discusses balancing parenthood with startup life and how this influenced his career choices. The conversation shifts to his work at Hatch, where he's transforming SEIS/EIS fund access for retail investors, and provides valuable insights into fund management challenges and the importance of sustainable growth in early-stage investing.

Join us for this fascinating look at the UK startup ecosystem through the eyes of someone who's experienced it from multiple perspectives.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Jonathan Keeling

05:50 The Next Unicorn and Media Ventures

11:59 Reflections on Work-Life Balance

19:20 Activating the Brand and Building Momentum

31:42 Navigating the EIS and SEIS Landscape

43:34 Emerging Managers and Fund Dynamics

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow JK on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathankeeling/

Check out Haatch here:

https://haatch.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #haatch #crowdcube #crowdfunding #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

This episode is proudly sponsored by FounderCatalyst.

Get 5% off their services by clicking this link:

https://2ly.link/1zDIJ

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

How does the UK’s most active pre-seed investor actually evaluate startups?

In Part Two of this conversation, Joseph Zipfel, Chief Investment Officer at SFC Capital, lifts the lid on the principles, processes, and red flags that shape their investment decisions.

He and Greg McCallum dive into:

How psychometric tools are changing founder evaluation.

Why identifying red flags early is more valuable than chasing hype.

The shift from gut instinct to a data-driven investment approach.

SEIS fund dynamics, founder mindsets, and the reality of follow-on funding.

Why transparent, honest communication matters more than perfect numbers.

The gap between VC press releases and real startup journeys.

Joseph also reflects on lessons learned from backing over 500 startups — including what most investors get wrong, and how founders can avoid making the same mistakes.

Whether you’re raising, investing, or just startup-curious, this episode is full of insights you won’t hear in pitch rooms.

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Chapters

00:00 Evaluating Startups: Principles and Processes

03:00 Learning from Failures: The Importance of Red Flags

06:10 Psychometric Analysis: Understanding Team Dynamics

08:45 Data-Driven Investment: Moving Beyond Gut Instincts

11:56 Founders' Mindset: Building a Company vs. Having a Job

15:01 Reputation and Feedback: The Investor's Role

17:54 Navigating Life Sciences: Unique Challenges and Opportunities

21:03 The Importance of Communication: Keeping Investors Engaged

33:35 The Importance of Communication in Startups

36:09 Understanding SEIS Funds and Their Reputation

38:57 Investment Strategies and Follow-On Funding Challenges

41:57 The Unique Position of SEIS Funds in the UK Market

44:52 Transparency and Honesty in the Startup Ecosystem

47:47 Learning from Failures and the Reality of Startups

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Joseph on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephzipfel/

Check out SFC Capital here:

https://sfccapital.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #SFCCapital #JosephZipfel #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

This episode is proudly sponsored by Peer.

Get started today with a free discovery audit + 20% off your first audit.

👉 Click the link to secure your offer: https://link.foundersunpluggedpodcast.com/peeraudits

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode, Greg sits down with Joseph Zipfel, Chief Investment Officer at SFC Capital — the UK’s most active pre-seed investor — to unpack the realities of early-stage investing. Joseph shares the thinking behind SFC’s bold decision to specialise in SEIS, and what founders often misunderstand about raising that crucial first round.

They explore the long, often anticlimactic road to exit, why patience matters more than hype, and the importance of building a support system that evolves with you. Joseph also reflects on his own career shift from investment banking to startups, offering honest insight into the differences between corporate and founder-led worlds.

The conversation touches on founder psychology, ethical grey areas in business, and the overlooked challenges faced by grassroots entrepreneurs. It’s a thoughtful look at the messy, meaningful work of building — and backing — early-stage companies.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to SFC Capital and Joseph Zipfel

03:00 The Journey of Investment and Exits

06:09 The Reality of Exits and Expectations

08:58 The Role of Founders and Investors

11:51 The Transition from Startup to Scale-Up

15:05 The Importance of Support Systems for Founders

17:48 Navigating Change and Career Development

20:48 Joseph Zipfel's Background and Career Path

24:02 The Corporate vs. Startup Environment

35:16 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Business

39:11 Understanding Different Work Environments

44:53 The Journey of Self-Discovery in Career Choices

49:50 Bridging the Gap Between Startups and Grassroots Businesses

51:12 The Importance of Branding in Investment Funds

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Joseph on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/josephzipfel/

Check out SFC Capital here:

https://sfccapital.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#FoundersUnplugged #Startups #VentureCapital #SEIS #EarlyStageInvesting #SFCCapital #JosephZipfel #StartupFunding #UKStartups #Entrepreneurship #AngelInvesting #StartupAdvice #BusinessPodcast #ExitStrategy #StartupInvestors

This episode is proudly sponsored by FounderCatalyst.

Get 5% off their services by clicking this link:

https://2ly.link/1zDIJ

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In Part Two of our conversation with Yuru, founder of Hey! Food Is Ready, we dive into the realities of building a startup alone—from the struggles of fundraising to the emotional toll of entrepreneurship.

This episode covers:

- The hardest parts of being a solo founder and how to navigate them.

- Why fundraising is more brutal than people think.

- How Yuru overcame a lack of network and early rejections.

- The mental and emotional challenges of building a business.

- The strategies that helped her secure investment and traction.

- Building a startup isn’t all success stories and big wins—this is an honest look at the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way.

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss future episodes

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Chapters

00:00 The Surprising Realities of Entrepreneurship

02:48 Family Influence and Support in Entrepreneurial Journeys

05:59 Navigating the Fundraising Landscape

11:59 Handling Rejection and Feedback in Business

15:03 Finding Focus Amidst Conflicting Advice

21:17 Navigating the Noise of Entrepreneurship

22:42 Embracing Learning Opportunities in Entrepreneurship

24:53 The Journey Over the Destination

26:38 Building a Supportive Team

30:06 The Importance of Networking and Advisors

32:55 Funding and Future Plans

34:55 Scaling the Business

36:53 Content Marketing in a B2B World

38:47 Finding and Onboarding Chefs

44:49 Towards a Self-Serve Marketplace

45:08 Gradual Growth and Personal Connections

46:41 Chef Distribution and Market Dynamics

49:00 SaaS Evolution: From Consultancy to Automation

51:15 The Importance of Low-Tech Solutions

52:36 Empowerment Through Action: Starting Without Funds

54:38 Sales vs. Marketing: Understanding the Distinction

57:07 The Dark Side of Entrepreneurship

01:01:11 The Need for Authenticity in Success Stories

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Yuru on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuru-guo/

Check out Hey! Food Is Ready here:

https://www.heyfoodisready.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#Startups #Entrepreneurship #Fundraising #SoloFounder #VentureCapital #StartupStruggles #FoundersUnplugged

This episode is proudly sponsored by Peer.

Get started today with a free discovery audit + 20% off your first audit.

👉 Click the link to secure your offer: https://link.foundersunpluggedpodcast.com/peeraudits

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In this episode of Founders Unplugged, we sit down with Yuru, founder of Hey! Food Is Ready, a platform connecting independent chefs—many from immigrant and refugee backgrounds—with companies looking for diverse, authentic catering options.

We dive into:

- How Hey! Food Is Ready is helping chefs turn home cooking into a business.

- The challenges of launching a food startup and growing a marketplace.

- Why companies are demanding more authentic, diverse catering.

- -The power of food as a bridge between cultures and communities.

- How this idea started as a university project and became a thriving business.

- At a time when food is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural connection—this startup is giving chefs a platform to share their stories and cuisines with the world.

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Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Hey! Food is Ready

02:52 Growth and Future Plans

06:02 The Importance of Food Stories

08:58 Cultural Perspectives on Food

12:06 The Journey of Entrepreneurship

15:10 Exploring Failed Ideas

18:05 Cultural Differences in Work and Rest

21:02 The Role of Food in Cultural Identity

27:13 Craving Authenticity in Cuisine

28:52 The Global Cuisine Boom

29:31 The Future of Food: Authenticity vs. Amalgamation

31:09 The Social Aspect of Eating

32:40 Cultural Differences in Business Dining

36:05 Defending British Cuisine

39:11 The Evolution of Popular Dishes

40:03 The Story Behind Budae Jjigae

43:00 Sales and Storytelling

47:54 Ethics in Sales

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Follow Yuru on LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/yuru-guo/

Check out Hey! Food Is Ready here:

https://www.heyfoodisready.com/

Want a 1-hour free advisory session with our host, Greg McCallum?

👇👇👇👇👇👇👇

https://meetings-eu1.hubspot.com/meetings/gmccallum?uuid=c8f5cecd-0222-4c6e-92d1-ea9f224a60fd

Like, Comment & Subscribe for More Founder Insights

Turn on notifications so you don’t miss Part 2

#FoodStartups #Catering #DiversityInBusiness #Entrepreneurship #FoundersUnplugged #ImmigrantChefs #SmallBusiness