This weeks guest is Bryan Serwatka, the Coffee Community Manager at Minor Figures, about the evolution of oat milk in coffee, the unique culture at Minor Figures, and Brian's personal journey into the coffee world.

(Give him a follow on Instagram at @mf.bryan.mf)

We explore the importance of authenticity in business, the challenges faced in the coffee industry, and the trends shaping the future of coffee.

Brian shares insights on the attitudes towards oat milk in different countries and highlights the innovative products Minor Figures is developing to lead the market with their 'future liquids lab'

I'm a huge fan of Minor Figures - and now Bryan.. And no doubt you will be too - Enjoy!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Meet Bryan Serwatka: Coffee Community Manager

02:23 The Story of Minor Figures

04:29 A Day in the Life at Minor Figures

06:15 The Unique Brand Identity of Minor Figures

08:44 Company Culture and Authenticity

10:45 Bryan's Journey into Coffee

14:02 The Importance of Coffee Origin Stories

17:04 Trends in Coffee and Automation

19:40 The Role of Relationships in Coffee

20:54 Music and Creativity in Business

22:11 Finding Contentment in Daily Work

22:38 Navigating Challenges in Events

24:13 Exciting Future Events and Milestones

26:41 Innovation in Oat Milk Products

30:39 Cultural Attitudes Towards Oat Milk in Europe

33:16 Music as a Metaphor for Persistence

34:48 Where to Find Minor Figures Products

This weeks guest is Thea Mathias, VP International at Our Place - A brand known for their gorgeous non-toxic cookware.

We dig into the brand's rapid growth in just 6 years, the importance of team dynamics, and the strategies behind their successful international expansion.

Thea was a joy to talk to, I loved it, and you will too!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Thea and Ourplace

06:46 Team Dynamics and Company Culture

13:00 Strategic Marketing and Consumer Engagement

16:26 The Joy of Cooking with Quality Cookware

27:14 Navigating the Startup World

33:33 Key Takeaways for Business Growth

37:52 Looking Ahead: Future of Our Place

Amy Seymour almost didn't get the job at The Turmeric Co... Luckily things have a way of working out, and they got the right person in the end!

Amy - Head of Brand & Comms, shares her journey and insights into the brand's founding story, product innovations, and the challenges faced in the health and wellness industry.

The conversation highlights the importance of alignment, problem-solving, and the unique approach of The Turmeric Co. in creating functional health shots.

Amy discusses her role, the dynamics of working with Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu, and the brand's commitment to quality and customer engagement.

I loved it, and you will too!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amy Seymour and Turmeric Co

01:52 The Founding Story of Turmeric Co

06:19 The Journey of Amy Seymour to Turmeric Co

09:38 Amy's Background and Passion for Performing Arts

13:10 Working with Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu

17:06 A Day in the Life of Head of Brand and Comms

20:28 Team Dynamics and Structure

22:30 Product Range and Innovations

28:13 Challenges and Problem Solving

33:09 Proud Moments and Achievements

35:06 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

This week I am joined by Mia Skelson - Social Media & Community Manager at Seep, discussing her journey in the sustainable cleaning industry.

Mia shares insights into the importance of eco-friendly products, the challenges of social media marketing, and the significance of community engagement.

We also discuss her brilliant approach to networking through a speed dating concept for social media managers, emphasising the need for creativity and standing out in the competitive FMCG space.

I loved it, and you will too!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Against Ordinary Sponsorship

01:45 Meet Mia Skelson: Role and Responsibilities at SEEP

02:25 The Story Behind SEEP: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions

04:48 The Team and Work Environment at SEEP

05:38 Mia's Journey to SEEP: Passion for Purpose-Driven Brands

07:37 Day-to-Day Operations: Social Media Strategy and Content Creation

11:33 Engaging with the Community: The Elton John Campaign

12:58 Speed Dating Social Media Managers: A Unique Networking Challenge

16:31 Key Learnings from Networking: Insights on Social Media Management

19:44 Future Trends in Social Media: What to Expect in 2026

21:44 The Essence of Social Media Engagement

25:23 Navigating Career Paths and Personal Branding

31:13 Overcoming Challenges in Social Media Marketing

33:58 Advice for Aspiring Professionals in FMCG

37:24 Reflections on Startup Life and Personal Growth

Today's guest is the absolutely brilliant Miranda Ballard, Head of Small and Medium Business at Nielsen IQ.

I loved this conversation, it was equal parts cathartic, fascinating and entertaining to say the least!

Miranda digs into the critical role of data for small businesses, emphasising the importance of competitor data, consumer behaviour insights, and the impact of AI in market testing.

Miranda shares her personal journey from a performing arts background to the data industry, highlighting lessons learned from her own business success and failures.

The conversation also touches on the challenges small brands face in utilising data effectively, the significance of repeat purchases, and other key takeaways you need to listen to!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nielsen IQ and SMB Market

08:45 Key Data Insights for Challenger Brands

16:05 Challenges for Small Brands in Different Markets

21:26 Innovations in AI and Consumer Insights

28:12 The Journey from Arts to Data

38:18 Key Learnings and Career Insights

45:25 Navigating Price and Promo Strategies

In this episode the brilliant Chloe Reeley - Head of Sales at Holos Kombucha shares her journey from working in larger brands to leading a mission-driven startup.

Holos Kombucha is dedicated to supporting survivors of modern slavery, and Chloe discusses the unique challenges and successes of scaling the brand.

The conversation covers the importance of community engagement, innovative product development, and the lessons learned from both big corporations like Lucozade to challenger brands like Lilly's Kitchen and Fiid.

Chloe is full of energy and a joy to be around, you're going to love it!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction

01:35 Meet Chloe Reeley and Holos Kombucha

06:43 The Unique Mission of Holos Kombucha

11:18 Chloe's Career Journey and Early Aspirations

15:32 Lessons from Big Brands to Startups

19:35 Holos Kombucha's Growth Strategy

21:39 Events and Community Engagement

24:55 The Importance of Purpose-Driven Brands

26:59 Career Highlights and Proud Moments

30:44 Navigating Tough Times in Business

32:41 Advice for Aspiring Professionals

36:20 Closing Thoughts and Favourite Song

From Veganuary to Dry January - Today's guest is the incredible Alice Galsworthy, Chief Operating Officer at Mother Root.

Mother Root is the feel-good aperitif that helps you unwind without the alcohol, made of apple cider vinegar, honey, fresh pressed ginger and chilli extract. And it's blooming delicious!

From an early customer, to first employee - Alice has now been there for nearly 3 years and the business has gone from strength to strength.

We talk about dragons den, growing a team, and her amazing career at M&S, Lidl, Taco Bell and more.

It truly is a cracking episode and Alice is a wonderful guest, enjoy!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Alice Galsworthy and Mother Root

03:12 The Passion Behind Mother Root

05:39 The Impact of Dragon's Den

08:20 Understanding Mother Root's Products

11:01 Team Growth and Hiring Strategies

13:38 The Importance of T-Shaped Talent

16:17 Alice's Career Journey

18:44 Finding Fulfillment in Work

21:22 Comparing Experiences at Lidl and M&S

21:25 Lessons from Experience: M&S and Lidl

25:00 Celebrating Wins and Learning from Losses

28:28 Navigating Market Trends: Dry January and Beyond

33:49 Overcoming Challenges: Stock Shortages and Setbacks

38:10 Embracing Resilience: The Startup Journey

First guest of 2026 is the wonderful Zoe Harris, Head of National Accounts at Oatly.

Now if somehow you've never heard of Oatly, they essentially created the Oat milk space 20 years ago and have become an absolute powerhouse of a brand ever since.

I loved speaking to Zoe about her time working in Incredible brands like Kellogs and Bear alongside many inspirational people on her journey.

Plus digging into the 6 year career at Oatly so far with 6 different roles.

This is a cracking episode, Oalty are an incredible brand and as mentioned in the episode, if you'd love to work for them head to the careers page HERE

Enjoy this episode and Happy New Year! Here's to a fantastic 2026 ahead :)

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Zoe Harris: Career Journey at Oatly

03:03 The Evolution of Oatly: From Science to Lifestyle Brand

05:51 The Appeal of Oatly: Culture and Team Dynamics

08:48 Growth and Development at Oatly

11:16 Oatly's Competitive Edge in the Market

13:53 Innovation and New Product Launches at Oatly

20:46 Upcoming Collaborations and Events

23:37 Zoe's Journey to Oatly

26:34 Lessons from Kellogg's

30:22 Experience at Bear

34:04 Navigating Challenges in the Industry

36:07 The Fun Side of Oatly

In this episode, Henry Mills, the General Manager of All Dressed Up Dressings, shares his journey through the food industry, discussing his experiences with various brands like Vita Coco, Seedlip, and Mindful Chef.

Henry discussed what makes All Dressed Up special, including their commitment to natural ingredients, the packaging, and of course the founder Tess and her mission to shake up the food industry.

Henry has so much brilliant experience - I loved this conversation and know you will too!

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Recording Setup

06:28 The Rise of All Dressed Up: Brand Story and Success

12:45 Henry's Journey: From Vita Coco to Seedlip

17:19 The Evolution of Non-Alcoholic Spirits

23:49 Transitioning to Mindful Chef

29:30 The Importance of Product Quality

36:47 Reflections on Career Challenges

Would you cheat on champagne?

Well that's what this weeks guest Izzy Maxwell (Head of Marketing) is asking consumers to do over at Della Vite - An award wining Italian prosecco brand created by Cara, Poppy and Chloe Delevingne.

Izzy shares insights into the brand's mission to premiumise the Prosecco category, her journey to the company, and the unique challenges of working with celebrity founders.

The conversation delves into the innovative marketing strategies employed, including the provocative 'Cheat on Champagne' campaign, and the importance of maintaining quality in a startup environment.

Izzy's passion for the brand and its products shines through as she discusses the future of Della Vite and their commitment to sustainability and inclusivity.

If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand.

They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today!

Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD.

Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠

Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!):

https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head

Chapters

00:00 The Della Vite Brand Story

08:14 Izzy's Journey to Della Vite

15:19 Marketing Strategies and Celebrity Involvement

17:58 Influencer Partnerships and Brand Activation

22:56 Cheat on Champagne: A Bold Marketing Strategy

33:25 Overcoming Production Challenges in a Startup

36:43 The Soundtrack of a Startup Journey