Swim Against The Tide

In this week’s podcast episode, Will Hill, Managing Director of Novel Wines, shares his unique journey into the wine industry, emphasising the importance of lesser-known wine regions, particularly in Eastern Europe, where his business excels.

He discusses the evolution of Novel Wines, the challenges of changing perceptions about wines from these regions, and the impact of political history on wine production. 

Will highlights the need for education and inclusivity in the wine industry, aiming to surprise and delight consumers with quality wines that defy traditional expectations.

He shares insight on wine judging, explaining the complexities of wine scoring systems, the dynamics of judging panels, and the importance of understanding global wines. 

Finally, Will shares unique wine recommendations, emphasising the joy and discovery that comes with exploring lesser-known varieties. You can explore his recommendations here:

Chelti Kisi Qvevri

https://www.novelwines.co.uk/products/chelti-winery-kisi-qvevri-2021-georgia?srsltid=AfmBOopd_xlJ97YVw3GudaCoMmGt3A0SppfzhHDJApYLsO7TTvYdAr6p

Kabola Malvasija Istarska

https://www.novelwines.co.uk/products/kabola-malvazija-2021?_pos=1&_sid=639914f3a&_ss=r

Aya Estate Melnik

https://www.novelwines.co.uk/products/aya-estate-melnik-bulgaria?_pos=4&_sid=1f624b588&_ss=r

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship

In this fascinating conversation, Jon Dutton OBE, CEO of British Cycling, shares his incredible journey in sports management, highlighting the challenges and triumphs he has faced.

He reflects on his experiences with running the Rugby League World Cup through COVID 19 and the lessons learned in leadership, emphasising the need for trust, purpose, and continuous learning.

In his role at British Cycling, he discusses the importance of social impact, the balance between commercial success and cultural growth, and the diverse disciplines within the cycling world.

He also looks forward to the future of British Cycling, including the upcoming Tour de France Grand Depart in 2027, and the organisation's commitment to making a positive societal contribution.

Finally, he gives advice around about how to build a brilliant career by following a North Star and being as kind to yourself as you would be to other people.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship #tourdefrance #BritishCycling #RugbyLeague #RugbyLeagueWorldCup

In this podcast episode, Brendan Fox, Managing Director of Destination Sport Experience, shares insights into his career journey and the evolution of the sports travel industry. 

He discusses the growth of Destination Sport Group, the challenges faced in the travel market, and the exciting developments in mass participation sports, particularly the rise of HYROX. 

Brendan emphasizes the importance of customer experience and the global expansion of their services, highlighting the dynamic nature of the sports travel landscape. 

He reflects on his role in managing a growing business and the challenges of maintaining operational efficiency while focusing on strategic growth and highlights the significance of customer experience and the need for travel companies to adapt to changing market demands, particularly in the context of sustainability and local economic impact.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship #tourdefrance #bromptonbikes

In our second Tour de France special, we meet Stephen Loftus as he shares his unique career journey leading to his role as CEO of Wattbike. 

After an early career in the global booze trade, then a spell at the British design icon that is Brompton Bikes, Stephen joined Wattbike in 2023.

He discusses the challenges faced during his tenure, particularly post-COVID, and the importance of team culture and relationships in navigating these challenges. 

Stephen elaborates on the innovative product range of Wattbike, catering to various markets from elite sports to the health industry and the ever-growing home fitness demand. 

He also highlights the future growth potential through technology integration and their acquisition by Interactive Strength, aiming to enhance the Wattbike digital experience. 

Finally, Stephen shares insights on the importance of fitness in an aging population and offers advice for the next generation regarding career paths and technology.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship #tourdefrance #bromptonbikes

In this latest Tour de France special episode of the podcast we meet Yanto Barker, the CEO of Le Col, the uber cool cycling apparel brand. 

The former professional cyclist shares his journey from early cycling experiences to establishing a successful cycling clothing range. He discusses the challenges he faced in both cycling and business, emphasising the importance of fearlessness, resilience, and the ability to adapt. 

Yanto highlights the core values of Le Col, focusing on inclusivity, creating a positive work environment and delegating. He also reflects on the balance between confidence and paranoia in entrepreneurship, drawing parallels between cycling and business dynamics. 

He shares insights on the growth of his brand, La Col, and the strategies for global expansion while explaining the need for clarity and coherence in communication.

Yanto reflects on his journey, the challenges faced, and the lessons learned along the way, highlighting the importance of resilience and adaptability in entrepreneurship.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship #tourdefrance

In this engaging conversation, Nick Payne shares his journey from an early career in banking to becoming the Managing Director of SA Brains, a renowned brewery. 

He discusses the challenges and triumphs he faced in the beer industry, his short transition into the gin market, and his return to Brains, where he aims to revitalise the brand and adapt to the evolving market. 

Nick emphasizes the importance of passion, self-awareness, and creating a positive work environment as key elements in his leadership style. 

Focussing on engaging with consumers and leveraging the brand's heritage to build future success.

He emphasizes the importance of market research, community involvement, and the role of sports in leadership development. 

Finally, Nick reflects on his career journey, offering insights on personal growth and the significance of being true to oneself.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship

In this podcast episode, Rob Keeping, Managing Director of Bread Holdings, shares his unique journey from a sports-focused youth to a successful career in the culinary world.

He discusses his early sporting career, a transition into the army, before discovering hospitality, and following his passion for food.

Rob then goes on to discuss his journey at Bread Holdings, the home of Gail’s Artisan Bakeries, highlighting the importance of leadership, team dynamics, and personal development. He reflects on how his military background has shaped his leadership style, emphasising the value of collective responsibility and continuous learning. 

As he now prepares to transition to his new role at Bells of Lazenby, Rob shares insights on the significance of authentic relationships and the need for adaptability in leadership roles.

He concludes with advice for the next generation, stressing the importance of attitude and being open to learning.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship

In this engaging conversation, Nick Gillett shares his journey from what he describes as a privileged upbringing to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the alcohol distribution industry. 

Nick explains how he took learnings from being on the front line of hospitality industry in the heady West End bar scene, and the importance of team sports, to build his career and develop into an effective and inspirational leader.

He discusses the importance of understanding consumer behaviour, the challenges faced during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the decision become part of much bigger, global organisation.

Nick emphasizes the significance of building a diverse team and company culture, as well as the lessons learned throughout his career.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship

In this engaging podcast episode, Teddy Lee shares his inspiring journey from starting his career as a waiter to the owner of a successful chain of Japanese restaurants. 

He discusses the challenges and triumphs of building his brand, Maki & Ramen, and how he adapted to the changing landscape of the restaurant industry, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. 

Teddy emphasises the importance of quality, innovation, and marketing in growing his business, while also reflecting on the cultural influences that shaped his culinary approach. 

He emphasizes the importance of hiring the right people, implementing operational systems for efficiency, and the strategic approach to growing his brand both nationally and internationally.

Teddy reflects on lessons learned, including the impact of personal decisions on business success, and shares his vision for the future of his restaurant chain.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship

In this engaging conversation, Stu Macdonald, founder of ManiLife Peanut Butter, shares his inspiring journey from a challenging childhood illness to becoming a successful entrepreneur.

He discusses the inception of his brand, the innovative product development process, and emphasizing the balance between taste and functionality.

The conversation also delves into the unique positioning of ManiLife in the peanut butter market, emphasising provenance and quality, as well as the brand's growth trajectory in a competitive landscape and how a mistake led to the creation of a best seller.

He reflects on his changing role within the company, the significance of team dynamics, and the strategies for future growth, including product expansion and market penetration.

The open and frank discussion also touches on the challenges of leadership, the value of personal connections, and the insights gained from overcoming burnout.

The SATT Team :) 

#podcast #business #swimagainstthetide #growth #entrepreneurship