Lessons a $120M Founder Learned the Hard Way

In this episode, Eric Tchalikian speaks with entrepreneur and investor Rob Wood about his journey from selling shoes in Gateshead to building and exiting a £120 million company. He shares the key lessons from founding STEM Healthcare, the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people, and breaks down his Five Drivers of Start-up Success, offering practical insight into the habits behind long term achievement. Rob also explains why entrepreneurship should be encouraged in schools and universities, and how early exposure can help more young people see building a venture as a real option. Honest, practical and inspiring, this conversation is for any student or aspiring founder thinking about creating their own path.