The Unfounders

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

Today's guest is the brilliant Jo Taylor - The Global Marketing Director at Dionilife

Dionilife are reimagining adult beverage with a fantastic growing portfolio of alcohol free brands including Pavari aperitivo, agave based spirit La Borosa and the incredible beer brand MASH GANG who are taking over the AF space, recently launching in Waitrose

Jo has a truly fantastic career working with the likes of L'Oreal, Danone, Innocent and BOL

We dig into her career, brilliant lessons and learnings along the way, and how they are building Dionilife to be the go to name in the alcohol free space

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 Jo Taylor and Dionilife

03:00 Cultural Shifts in Drinking Habits

06:00 Marketing Challenges and Opportunities

09:00 Jo’s Career Journey and Insights

12:00 Future of Dionilife and Product Innovation

15:00 The Role of Innovation in the Alcohol-Free Market

18:00 Consumer Insights and Product Development

21:00 Reflections on Career Highlights and Challenges

24:00 The Impact of Non-Alcoholic Beverages on the Market

27:00 Personal Experiences and Lessons Learned

30:00 The Importance of Product Quality and Consumer Connection

33:00 Jo’s Vision for the Alcohol-Free Industry

36:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Prospects

This week I speak to Joe Rampley [Creative Brand Manager] & Eli Baillie [Creative Producer] at Forest, the London-based e-bike company.

We discuss their innovative marketing strategies, company culture, and the unique user experience they offer. Diving into their creative team dynamics, the importance of community engagement, and their personal career journeys leading to get them where they are.

I really enjoyed this, and since recording have even had my first ride on the bikes so can confirm they are brilliant! If you want 20 minutes free with your first ride, download the app and use code: gIbdI9DX

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 the Team Dynamics

03:55 Innovative Campaigns: Safety and Community Engagement

09:15 User Experience: How to Use Forest Bikes

12:39 The Future of Forest: Growth and Community Focus

17:42 Closing Thoughts and Future Collaborations

Today's guest is Luke Byrne, Innovation & Sustainability Director at THIS.

THIS have been leading the way for plant-based meat in the UK with their range of meat alternatives from bacon to chicken to pork. And more recently they've stepped into the veg-lead and whole food space with their new super superfood range.

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 Luke Byrne and THIS

03:53 The Vision Behind Plant-Based Meat

06:41 Innovative Product Development Process

09:50 Navigating the Ultra-Processed Food Debate

12:52 Luke Byrne's Journey and Background

15:34 Transition from Unilever to This Brand

18:04 Building a Team in a Startup Environment

21:59 Building a Diverse Team for Innovation

23:31 Navigating the Plant-Based Boom

25:42 Challenges in Product Development

28:09 Tough Days and Learning Experiences

34:58 Future Innovations and Market Trends

Today's guest is the effervescent Hannah Page - Social Media Manager at OLLY'S

OLLY'S are an incredible snacking brand known for their delicious olives and pretzel thins.

Their content has always been top notch, and I wanted to dig into how it's created, and how Hannah got into this role in the first place.

It's a cracker of an episode, enjoy!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

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

They also 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!

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 Hannah Page: Social Media Manager at Ollie's

06:37 The Role of a Social Media Manager

12:44 Ollie's Brand Refresh and Packaging Evolution

17:55 Creative Campaigns and Team Dynamics

23:12 Work Culture and Flexibility at Ollie's

28:43 Hannah's Career Journey and Aspirations

30:28 Overcoming Challenges: The Reality of Social Media Management

33:04 Breaking into the Industry: Tips for Aspiring Creatives

36:32 Mastering Social Media: Key Strategies for Success

Today's guest is the lovely Ailis Anderson - Head of Brand & Marketing at Honestly Tasty.

Now Honestly Tasty make absolutely DELICIOUS fermented, mould-ripened, natural, plant-based cheeses like blue, brie, camembert and more.

Recently they acquired La Fauxmagerie - a brand who I worked for in the past and had the pleasure of seeing behind the scenes the care, passion and craft the Honestly Tasty team put into creating all these award winning cheeses!

I loved digging into Ailis' background regarding how nannying translated to working in a startup environment, how she got this role, and why she's so passionate about the space.

Ailis also mentioned the new Camden Cultured range which is STUNNING and may be some of my new favourite cheeses on the market! If you've never been impressed by vegan cheese, these are some of the brands that will help change your mind.

Enjoy this conversation - I sure did!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

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

They also 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!

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 Honestly Tasty

06:14 The Journey of Vegan Cheese

14:07 Innovations in Plant-Based Cheese

17:06 The Vegetarian Journey

18:51 The Rebranding Experience

21:10 Shelf Presence and Market Strategy

22:22 Christmas Specials and New Products

24:16 Collaborations and Availability

28:02 Challenges in Direct-to-Consumer Shipping

31:52 The Soundtrack of Startup Life

Jack Rutherfood is the UK Managing Director at Italian food powerhouse Crosta Mollica

They have been dominating in the UK over recent years, and it was great chatting to Jack to try and understand some of the reasons why that is.

I also loved digging into Jack's background from his first role as a Junior Buyer at Sainsburys, to moving brand side and working at the likes of Diageo, Lily's Kitchen and THIS.

Jack is a fantastic guy - and I loved this one, I'm sure you will too!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

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

They also 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!

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 Jack Rutherford and Crosta Mollica

01:40 The Story of Crosta Mollica

03:13 Brand Evolution and Rebranding Success

05:39 Joining Crosta: The Attraction of the Brand

08:33 Market Insights: Chilled vs Frozen Pizza

11:46 The Secret Sauce of Crosta's Success

17:40 Jack's Journey: From Aspirations to Leadership

20:10 The Evolution of Ready-to-Drink Beverages

22:02 Career Path: From Sainsbury's to Diageo

25:00 Transitioning to Challenger Brands

27:46 Navigating the Plant-Based Boom

30:44 Balancing Work and Family Life

33:22 Resilience in the Face of Challenges

35:43 The Soundtrack of Work Life

Oi, FATSO. Yeah, you heard that right...

No, I'm not insulting you - I'm talking about the unapologetically FAT and delicious chocolate brand FATSO as this week I sit down with the lovely Poppy Dionian Smith - National Account Manager and Maja Turner - Brand & Content Manager.

I LOVED this conversation. From the playful name and branding - which when unwrapped has so much more to share, from their ethical sourcing from a single farm in Cambodia, to supporting the chocolate dream charity initiative and so much more.

Honestly, the chocolate is unbelievably good, and I loved hearing why Poppy and Maja joined the team and why they love what they do!

As always thanks to our fantastic sponsor ⁠Mission Kitchen!⁠

If you're a chef, baker of food brand looking to grow, then head on over to book a tour at their site in Nine Elms, London today.

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

They also 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!

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 FATSO and Its Founders

02:52 The Brand Story and Ethical Sourcing

05:40 The Team Dynamics and Company Culture

08:17 Personal Journeys to FATSO

11:25 Typical Workweeks and Responsibilities

14:09 The Impact of the Brand Name 'FATSO'

22:58 The Allure of Unique Branding

24:29 Childhood Dreams and Culinary Passions

25:42 Lessons from the Journey

27:26 The Importance of Passion in Work

29:29 Navigating Management and Team Dynamics

30:23 Exciting Developments for the Holiday Season

32:04 Learning from Setbacks

34:52 The Soundtrack of Work Life