The Unfounders

This week's guest is the brilliant Aidan Conry, Head of Sales at Fearne & Rosie - A jam brand proud to produce a range using double the fruit (70%) and half the sugar compared to most jam's in the market!

Aidan shares insights into building a successful food brand, navigating retail partnerships, and the importance of authenticity and persistence in FMCG.

From early days of being a buyer, to working for brands ever since - there's plenty of words of wisdom in this episode, 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 Aidan Conry and Fearn & Rosie

03:07 The Story Behind Fearn & Rosie

04:25 Aidan's Journey to Fearn & Rosie

06:47 The Team and Work Culture at Fearn & Rosie

09:41 Aidan's Early Aspirations and Career Path

12:20 Training and Development at ASDA

14:42 Transitioning to the Plant-Based Sector

17:20 The Disruption of Oato and Mighty

20:09 Key Highlights and Success Stories

22:38 Challenges and Setbacks in the Industry

25:29 Future Plans for Fearn & Rosie

28:01 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs

30:29 Reflections on Career Progression

33:18 Aidan's Musical Anthem and Closing Thoughts

This week I speak to industry titan - Mike Hemming, The Commercial Director of LoveSum Dumplings

We discuss Mike's extensive background in the food industry, including his time at Cadbury, Green & Black's, Mars Pet Care and Peter's Yard.

Mike shares the founding story of LoveSum Dumplings, their vision for fresh dumplings in the UK, and the challenges they face in the retail market.

There's insights on working in both corporate and SME environments, and advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs.

There's SO much to dig into - 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 LoveSum Dumplings

01:15 The Founding Story of LoveSum Dumplings

03:25 Mike's Journey to LoveSum Dumplings

05:56 Retail Success and Brand Growth

07:55 Lunar New Year and Sales Insights

11:29 Building a Factory and Overcoming Challenges

15:17 Career Path and Early Influences

18:27 Lessons from Cadbury's Experience

19:57 Lessons from Cadbury: Leadership and Culture

21:13 Transitioning to Green and Blacks: Authenticity and Innovation

23:44 The Unique Environment at Mars: People Management and Leadership

25:14 Scaling Peter's Yard: From Niche to Mainstream

29:52 Navigating Premium Markets: Strategies for Success

32:59 Focus on Core Products: Building a Strong Brand

37:02 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs: Passion and Experience

Today's guest is the fantastic Hayley Costanzo - Managing Director at PÄRLA.

Now PÄRLA are revolutionising oral care and the toothpaste space with their range of innovative tabs and more recently their fully recyclable aluminium tube pastes.

Hayley is a TRUE unfounder, being there pretty much from day one - I loved unpicking the last 5+ years building the brand, and her lessons and learnings from brilliant brands like Innocent and Strong Roots too.

This is a corker, 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 PÄRLA and the Mission

03:26 Innovative Products: Tablets vs. Tubes

06:16 The Importance of Ingredients in Oral Care

09:01 Building a Brand Experience

11:58 Hayley's Journey to PÄRLA

14:34 Growth and Expansion at PÄRLA

17:24 Field Sales Experience and Its Impact

20:05 Challenges and Insights in Retail

21:00 Scrappy Beginnings and Creative Solutions

23:36 The Journey at PÄRLA: Growth and Responsibilities

26:50 Work-Life Balance in a Challenger Brand

30:24 Navigating Tough Times and Operational Challenges

34:51 Advice for Aspiring FMCG Professionals

38:22 The PÄRLA Anthem: Music and Team Spirit

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