The Unfounders

Today's guest is a marketing legend - Rory McEntee

Rory is now the Chief Marketing (/Mischief) Officer at GymNation - a mega gym taking over the UAE with their huge well equipped offering.

He's already causing a stir with 'The Coolest Class in Dubai' and other fantastic initiatives, but I wanted to dig into his background, and what it's like moving to Dubai whilst raising a young family.

So that's exactly what we did!

Rory reflects on his experiences at GymBox, Paddy Power, Pizza Express and more - discussing how finding the right people and teams to let you have freedom of creativity can lead to some amazing PR campaigns and brand awareness.

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 Rory McKenty and Gym Nation

02:55: Moving to Dubai: A New Chapter

05:50: Innovative Marketing at Gym Nation

09:48: The Roots of Creativity

12:57: Career Progression in Marketing

17:36: Transitioning from Paddy Power to Pizza Brands

19:39: The Impact of AI on Marketing

24:53: The GymBox Experience and Highlights

25:39: Creative Freedom at GymBox

28:00: Innovative Marketing Strategies

32:34: Brand Collaborations and Creative Campaigns

35:13: Navigating Challenges in Marketing

38:36: Personal Reflections and Future Plans

41:35: Marketing in Dubai: A New Perspective

This episode is a raw & honest look at what it takes to build, and then exit your business.

Recorded live at Bread & Jam (Thanks to Aztec) this panel was with:

🐣 Anna Richey - Two Chicks 

🍲 John B Stapleton - Ex New Covent Garden Soup Co / Little Dish 

👨‍⚖️ Phil Hails-Smith - Joelson | B Corp

Sharing the highs, lows, ins and outs of building and finally existing a brand.

I’d love to hear what you think of this one - personally I LOVED it!

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: Panel Introductions and Backgrounds

01:14: Understanding Exit Strategies

01:53: The Journey to Exit: Anna's Experience

02:18: New Chapter

02:47: Timing Your Exit

05:33: Key Metrics for Successful Exits

08:59: Lessons Learned from the Exit Process

11:29: The Importance of Brand Differentiation

14:30: Advice for Future Exits

18:55: Post-Exit Involvement and Future Plans

23:04: Challenges and Watch Outs in Exiting

26:57: Audience Q&A: Insights and Advice

In this episode, I talk all thing operations with Phil Peters - Director of Supply Chain Services at YF.

YF are a consultancy designed to help innovative, high-growth consumer businesses achieve mainstream scale. They provide advice and a wide range of services to retailers, investors and the brands themselves - one of which includes operations, and that's where Phil comes in!

He shares insights from his early career, key lessons learned, and the significance of cash management in business. Phil emphasises the complexities of operations and supply chain - and is on a mission to celebrate these unsung heroes with OpsFest - running for the second time this year!

I loved this chat - without Operations there is no business! 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

License code: QWUZIDMAML7QE7ZI

Chapters:

00:00: Introduction to Phil and YF Consultancy

03:38: The Launch of Opsfest: A New Era for Operations

08:16: Phil's Journey: From Philosophy to Operations

17:44: Challenges in the Food Delivery Industry

22:03: Mental Health and Burnout in Operations

27:09: The Importance of Relationships and Flexibility

35:14: Operational Support for Brands

40:22: Connecting with YF and Future Opportunities

Today I have the honour and privilege of sitting down to talk with Laura Mimoun - Chief Marketing Officer at The Fulham Shore, looking after both The Real Greek and Franco Manca.

Laura's background is fantastic, having worked at Mondalez and PepsiCo, looking after brands such as Mini Eggs, Creme Egg, Green and Blacks and so many more.

Laura also had experience of being an entrepreneur herself, with the amazing Kaleido Salad Roll business.

And then taking the step back into employment for where she is today.

It's a brilliant story and SO much to gain from this - I really hope you enjoy it.

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

License code: QWUZIDMAML7QE7ZI

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to The Unfounders Podcast

04:04: Revamping The Real Greek: A Culinary Journey

09:09: Balancing Two Brands: Franco Manca and The Real Greek

14:34: Laura's Career Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneur

19:40: The Challenges of Running Kaleido and Moving On

26:18: Returning to Corporate Life

32:12: Exciting New Launches and Promotions

Today's guest is the brilliant Shane Stewart - Brand Director at XOXO Soda.

XOXO are a stunning prebiotic soda brand taking over Europe and The UK - and Shane is taking the helm leading all things brand.

I loved digging into his background and past journey, working at brands like Northern Bloc ice cream and Moju.

Shane also shares the work he's doing to remove stigma around grief, with his inclusive running club Step by Steppers that he created after sadly losing his father.

Shane is an absolute legend, and I really hope you enjoy this episode!

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

License code: QWUZIDMAML7QE7ZI

Chapters

00:00: Introduction to XOXO Soda and Shane's Role

06:49: Consumer Trends and the Rise of Functional Beverages

11:38: Creating Moments of Joy with XOXO Soda

18:30: Balancing Work and Personal Life

25:15: Shane's Career Journey and Lessons Learned

30:31: Learning from Experience and Consumer Engagement

37:28: Overcoming Obstacles in Events and Operations

48:06: Turning Personal Loss into Positive Action

In this conversation, Will Orchard, the sales lead at Shandy Shack, shares insights into the unique offerings of the brand, which specialises in low-alcohol craft beer shandies. 

He discusses the journey of Shandy Shack, its collaborations, customer demographics, and the challenges faced during rapid growth and acquisition. 

Will also reflects on his unconventional career path, lessons learned from his time in the army, and the importance of maintaining brand identity post-acquisition. 

The conversation highlights the evolving landscape of the drinks industry and the significance of moderation in drinking culture.

Check out Will's side project The Observational Buffet here

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

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Shandy Shack and Will's Role

06:04 Distribution and Collaborations

11:39 Will's Journey to Shandy Shack

16:58 Growth and Evolution of Shandy Shack

23:36 Building a Collaborative Team Culture

30:12 Transitioning to a Larger Organisation

36:32 Learning from Mistakes in Scaling

Today's guest is the wonderful Katie Arabella Ward - Senior National Account Manager at Pimentae

Pimentae make delicious Margaritas - Spicy, Tommy, Cucumber and my favourite - Grapefruit, which was also just named the best canned margarita by BBC Good Food

Katie swapped a career in beer into the world of tequila and I loved digging into all things drinks, managing customers and activations - and what they're doing as a brand to make noise.

I loved this chat - and hope you do 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

In this weeks episode, I chat to Emily Churchill - Head of Marketing at Nice Wine.

She shares insights into the brand's innovative approach to the wine industry.

We discuss the company's mission to make wine more approachable and fun, the strategic positioning that has led to its widespread acceptance, and the creative marketing campaigns that have captured consumer attention.

Emily also reflects on her career journey, the importance of company culture, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in marketing.

The discussion once again emphasises the significance of community, creativity, and adaptability in the fast-paced FMCG sector.

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

Today's guest is the fantastic Katie Jewett, Chief Operating Officer at Momo Kombucha.

Katie shares insights into the journey of Momo, a brand known for its high-quality, authentic kombucha.

We discuss the challenges of scaling a business, innovative collaborations, and the importance of maintaining product quality amongst rapid growth.

Katie also reflects on her career path, team dynamics, and the supportive culture within startups.

I loved the emphasis throughout on the significance of curiosity and community - and hope you do 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

Chapters

00:00: Katie's Role at Momo Kombucha

03:36: Momo's Growth and Scaling Challenges

06:42: Collaboration with Tate and Unique Offerings

08:38: Momo's Market Position and Authenticity

11:20: Retail Partnerships and Seasonal Flavors

13:01: Katie's Career Journey and Insights

15:45: Building a Diverse Skill Set

18:32: Navigating Growth and Challenges

21:01: The Importance of Clarity in Communication

22:58: Fostering Team Culture and Bonding

25:33: Curiosity and Continuous Growth

28:46: Overcoming Operational Challenges

31:37: Exciting Future Plans for Momo

33:57: The Power of Community in Startups

36:14: Advice for Aspiring FMCG Professionals

Today's guest Rudi McGuinness is one of the most passionate, energetic and engaging young people I've ever spoken to.

Rudi is Head of Partnerships at Dig In, a company who provide boxes of essential items for students on their first day of university, and how this create meaningful connections between brands and young consumers in a time they are most receptive.

We touch on her vibrant journey from Spain to the UK, her experiences in hospitality, and her passion for engaging with Gen Z through innovative marketing strategies.

We also discuss the challenges of outreach in the marketing world, the cultural differences between Spain and the UK, and the importance of positivity in the workplace.

Rudi's diverse career path and her commitment to building community shine through in this engaging conversation - you're going to love it (and her!)

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

Chapters:

00:00: Understanding Diggin: The Concept and Its Impact

05:27: Rudy's Journey to Diggin: Personal Connection and Experience

09:48: Engagement Strategies: How Brands Connect with Gen Z

12:39: Challenges in Brand Outreach: The Ghosting Phenomenon

18:19: The Importance of Communication in Sales

20:33: Hospitality Experience: A Foundation for Sales Skills

21:54: Career Journey: From Hospitality to Insurance

26:52: Cultural Contrasts: Spain vs. London

36:09: Challenges in Business: Overcoming Obstacles

43:00: Connecting with the Community and Future Aspirations