A Little Bit Radical: Business | People | Planet

What if waste was a design flaw, not an inevitability? In this episode, Tom Szaky, CEO of TerraCycle and Loop, explains how he is working to eliminate the idea of waste entirely. He is not just tinkering at the edges. He is rebuilding systems from the ground up while partnering with some of the biggest brands on the planet.Tom takes us through his journey from a university dropout selling worm poop to a global leader in recycling and reuse. His company now operates in 20 countries and works with household names to solve the problems they have helped create.Topics include:How to recycle products most of us assume can't be recycled, like cigarette butts and nappiesThe business model behind Loop and how it enables circular, reusable packaging at scaleWhy voluntary action from consumers and brands will never be enough without regulationHow TerraCycle works with multinationals without compromising its missionWhy entrepreneurship should be driven by real-world problems, not just investor trendsTom's radical mission: to eliminate the idea of wasteStay Connected:Follow Tom on ⁠Linkedin⁠. Follow Rob Fawkes on ⁠LinkedIn⁠Visit standingongiants.com Sign up for the ⁠A Little Bit Radical⁠ newsletter.

How do you stay radical while leading 150 million followers and a multimillion-pound business? We speak to Melissa Chapman, CEO of social media powerhouse Jungle Creations, about rebellion, reinvention, and what real success looks like.From being banned from school trips to becoming CEO before 30, Melissa shares how growing up in a loud, unconventional household shaped her bold and humorous leadership style. She gets candid about:Redefining success: Why inner peace trumps Forbes listsEmpathy over ego: Building a high-growth business without the bragsThe rise of social creativity: From pet socks and Yorkshire pudding lasagna to 50+ Twisted London restaurantsStaying scrappy at scale: Reinventing the business without losing its soulUsing AI responsibly: The ethics of content creation, internal AI committees, and using ChatGPT as a "therapist"Driving to Bilbao in a motorhome for the Europa League final instead of taking a charter jet (yes, really)And… the radical dream of printers that actually workStay Connected:Follow Mel on Linkedin. Follow Rob Fawkes on LinkedInVisit standingongiants.comSign up for the A Little Bit Radical newsletter.

In this conversation, film producer Peter Samuelson shares his journey from a young boy with limited expectations to a successful film producer and philanthropist. He discusses the importance of mentorship, the role of helping others in finding happiness, and the lessons learned from risk and failure. Peter emphasizes that true happiness often comes from contributing to the well-being of others and building meaningful connections. His personal anecdotes and insights provide a roadmap for young adults seeking purpose and fulfillment in their lives. A mentor can help you aim higher than you thought possible.Radical change often starts with a single opportunity.Helping others can lead to personal happiness.Failure is a stepping stone to success if learned from.Building connections can lead to unexpected opportunities.Happiness can be divided into short-term, medium-term, and long-term.Selflessness can be a form of selfishness that benefits you.Volunteering can lead to meaningful relationships.The importance of organizing your life for success.Taking risks is essential for personal growth. Acting requires a backup plan to mitigate risks.Comedy's success is often unpredictable and relies on audience reaction.Test screenings can yield surprising results, as seen with 'Revenge of the Nerds.'Risk-taking is essential for entrepreneurs and creatives alike.Philanthropy brings joy and fulfillment beyond financial success.Young men often take greater risks due to brain development.Building connections with diverse groups can reduce fear and promote understanding.Climate change poses a significant threat to humanity's future.Tribalism and othering are detrimental to societal progress.Mentorship plays a crucial role in guiding younger generations.Order 'Finding Happy' here.Stay Connected:Follow Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: ⁠Rob Fawkes⁠Sign up for the A Little Bit Radical newsletter: ⁠Subscribe here⁠Visit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

What does it take to communicate climate action with honesty, without falling into the greenwash trap?Helen Neal, Co-Founder of HN Communications, joins A Little Bit Radical to share her journey from corporate burnout to founding a values-driven sustainability communications agency.In this candid conversation with Rob Fawkes, Helen reveals how becoming a parent pushed her out of a job she thought she wanted, how she built a remote, flexible team that works from all over the world, and why radical honesty is the key to meaningful sustainability storytelling.They also explore the vital role of corporate and NGO partnerships, the quiet power of regional roots, and the transformative conversations that change everything.In This Episode:Growing up as an only child and learning to define her own identityFrom shiny London offices to an accidental business ownerWhy she walked away from her career after becoming a mumThe moment a client told her to "go all in" and why it changed everythingWhat makes great sustainability communications and how to avoid accidental greenwashingThe underestimated power of NGO and corporate partnershipsBuilding a remote, flexible team with real work-life integrationWhy honest conversations and safe spaces are essential for progressHelen’s “Climate Leaders Community” and her mission to empower women in sustainabilityThe advice she’d give anyone sitting on a radical ideaHelen Neal on LinkedinStay Connected:Follow Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob FawkesSign up for the A Little Bit Radical newsletter: Subscribe hereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

What do running away to a Swedish circus at age 10 and tackling one of the food industry’s biggest hidden problems have in common?Dini McGrath, Co-Founder of The Wonki Collective, joins A Little Bit Radical to tell her extraordinary story. From wild childhood adventures to founding a business determined to eradicate supply chain food waste, Dini’s journey is anything but ordinary.Host Rob Fawkes and Dini dig into the shocking statistic that 40% of food never even reaches supermarket shelves. They explore the power dynamics between manufacturers and retailers, and how radical thinking, resilience, and persistence are needed to fix it.Dini also shares her experiences as a female founder navigating the funding gap, her work with Innovate UK, and why risk-taking should be for everyone, not just the lucky few.In This Episode:Growing up wild: how moving into building sites and joining the Swedish circus shaped Dini’s fearless mindsetThe shocking 40% food waste problem hidden deep in supply chainsHow The Wonki Collective is using AI and technology to match surplus food with where it’s neededWhy selling surplus cocoa powder wasn’t enough, and how Dini and her team pivoted to something biggerSecuring a major Innovate UK grant and partnering with Nestlé and FareShareThe brutal realities of raising investment as a female founderWhy we need more women not just founding businesses, but funding them tooConnect with Dini:Dini McGrath on LinkedInThe Wonki Collective on LinkedInStay Connected:Follow Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob FawkesSign up for the A Little Bit Radical newsletter: Subscribe hereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

What do Hulk Hogan, Swampy the eco-warrior, and crushing rocks in Canada have in common? They’re all part of the wonderfully radical story of Ben Wynn, founder of GLAD Climate Club, and our guest on this episode of A Little Bit Radical.Ben tells host Rob Fawkes how he went from nearly impaling a famous protester on a sledgehammer stake (true story) to building a scalable climate movement that lets anyone contribute to greenhouse gas removal for the cost of a coffee. Along the way, we talk about why tree-planting isn’t enough, the real reason climate comms fail, and how enhanced rock weathering might just save us all.It’s hopeful, clever, and a little bit radical—just the way we like it.In this episode:How a near-death encounter with Swampy (yes, the Swampy) made Ben rethink his careerWhy construction was too slow for him—and climate change is way too urgentHow GLAD Climate Club lets anyone remove greenhouse gases from the atmosphereEnhanced rock weathering explained (yes, it’s a thing—and it’s amazing)Why tree-planting won’t save us (and what might)Why we need hope and inspiration, not fear and shame, to drive climate actionHow your £1 a week actually works—and where the money goesThe cathedral mindset: building something that will outlive youWhy imitation is innovation (and how to copy creatively)Further ReadingGLAD Climate Club – Start your £1-a-week climate actionEnhanced Rock Weathering – Go deep on WikipediaJohn Harrison and the Longitude Prize – Inspiration from Yorkshire’s original radicalConnect With BenBen Wynn on LinkedInFollow Rob on LinkedIn: Rob FawkesSign up for the A Little Bit Radical newsletter: Subscribe hereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

What if every job was part-time and flexible by default? Sounds radical, right? Well, that’s exactly what Nyree Ambarchian, Co-Founder of Jack & Grace, is making a reality.In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes speaks with Nyree, who left a rigid, outdated workplace behind to build an agency that prioritises people, planet, and profit—in that order. From salary transparency to flipping the 9-5 norm on its head, Nyree shares how her team is rethinking work entirely.They also discuss how unwritten workplace rules (aka "microplastics" in our daily lives) shape our careers without us even noticing—and how we can unpick them to build something better.In this episode, we discuss: The ‘microplastics’ of work: How unspoken rules shape our behaviour—and why we don’t question them enough. How parenthood changed everything: Why becoming a mum made Nyree realise that the rules of work were the problem, not her. Why all jobs at Jack & Grace are part-time by default: And why employees have to actively request full-time hours instead. Salary transparency: Why Jack & Grace shares salary bands openly and how it challenges workplace inequalities. Saying NO to bad clients: Why they only work with organisations that align with their values—and how they assess potential clients. Convincing her husband, a police officer, to go part-time: Proof that flexible work can (and should) apply to all industries. Burying your pants in the ground?! The campaign that helped kids understand soil health in a hilarious way.Follow Nyree and Jack & Grace:Nyree Ambarchian on LinkedIn: Nyree Ambarchian LinkedInJack & Grace on LinkedIn: Jack & Grace LinkedInStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':A Little Bit Radical Newsletter:⁠ Sign Up Here⁠Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn:⁠ Rob Fawkes LinkedIn⁠Visit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

How do we protect ourselves in a world where cyber threats are not just possible, but inevitable? In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes speaks with Steve Durbin, CEO of the Information Security Forum (ISF), a global, not-for-profit organisation helping businesses manage cybersecurity risks.Steve shares his unconventional leadership journey, from growing up in Kenya and developing an instinct for questioning the status quo to leading one of the most influential cybersecurity organisations in the world. He talks about risk management, human behaviour in cybersecurity, and why you should aim to be the least attractive target for cybercriminals.🔍 Cybersecurity is risk management: Why it’s about managing risk, not eliminating threats altogether.🌍 Growing up in Kenya: How experiencing different cultures shaped Steve’s approach to leadership.🤔 Trusting your gut in cybersecurity: Why instincts and intuition matter—even in a data-driven industry.🚨 Cybercrime-as-a-Service?! How criminals can buy hacking tools online, complete with 24/7 customer support.🛑 Making yourself ‘unattractive’ to hackers: Why being a boring, low-value target is actually the best cyber defence strategy.👥 The people factor: Why cybersecurity isn’t just a tech issue—human behaviour plays a bigger role than we think.📱 Steve’s radical idea: Put down your phone and actually experience the world instead of just documenting it.🗣️ "Every time you go online, you're stepping into the Wild West. Be prepared."🗣️ "People think cybersecurity is about technology—it’s actually about people and behaviour."🗣️ "The best cybersecurity strategy? Be so unappealing that hackers move on to someone else."Steve Durbin on LinkedIn:Steve Durbin LinkedInInformation Security Forum (ISF) Website:ISF WebsiteRob Fawkes on LinkedIn:Rob Fawkes LinkedInIn this episode, we discuss:Memorable Quotes:Follow Steve and the ISF:Stay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':A Little Bit Radical Newsletter:Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes speaks with Will Ascott, Co-Founder of Free Movement Skateboarding, a grassroots organisation using skateboarding as a tool to empower young people from diverse and disadvantaged backgrounds in Athens.Will shares his journey from a childhood love of skateboarding to founding Free Movement, which has since provided thousands of young people—including refugees, second-generation migrants, and Greek youth—with a space to build confidence, community, and resilience. This episode dives into the challenges of running a small charity, the impact of skateboarding as a social tool, and why building social cohesion is key to a more inclusive future.🛹 From Skater Kid to Social Entrepreneur: How Will’s early love of skateboarding shaped his vision for using it as a tool for empowerment.🌍 Free Movement Skateboarding: How the organisation brings together young people from refugee, migrant, and Greek communities.🚐 A Mobile Skate Park: Running skate sessions in public squares, playgrounds, and schools—anywhere that provides a safe space for young people.🏛 Challenges of Working in Athens: The barriers to supporting refugee youth, navigating government restrictions, and the urgent need for public skate parks.💡 The Power of Social Cohesion: Why it’s not about forcing people to “integrate” but about creating shared experiences and mutual understanding.📢 Running a Small Charity: The reality of funding cycles, bureaucracy, and keeping a mission-driven project alive.🔮 The Future of Free Movement: Will’s vision for a permanent skate park and youth centre in Athens.Memorable Quotes:🗣️ "Skateboarding is more than a sport—it’s a way to bring people together across cultures, backgrounds, and experiences."🗣️ "Social cohesion isn’t about making people assimilate—it’s about giving them a shared identity while letting them keep their own."🗣️ "People need time for positive recreation in their lives. Work shouldn’t take over everything." Free Movement Skateboarding Website: Visit Here Short Film - A Mobile Community by CHPO SunglassesIf you’d like to help Free Movement Skateboarding continue their incredible work, donate here:👉 Donate to Free Movement SkateboardingFollow Free Movement Instagram: @freemovement__sbStay ConnectedRob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

What does playing in a punk band and leading a digital agency have in common? Quite a lot, it turns out. In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes sits down with Sepas Seraj, Founder of Pixeled Eggs, a purpose-driven digital agency working with organisations like the Earthshot Prize, World Cancer Research Fund, and the Royal Foundation for the Prince and Princess of Wales.Sepas shares his journey from growing up in Iran and moving to the UK, to playing in punk bands, and eventually building a digital agency that helps mission-driven organisations thrive. This conversation covers creativity, collaboration, and the lessons he’s brought from the rehearsal room into the workplace.🎸 From Punk to Pixels: How playing in bands shaped Sepas’ approach to leadership and creativity.🌍 A Purpose-Driven Business: The journey to founding Pixeled Eggs and why they focus on mission-driven clients.💡 Lessons from the Earthshot Prize: How working with Prince William’s environmental initiative embodies the agency’s values.💻 The Digital World’s Evolution: From pre-social media days to today’s digital chaos—what’s changed, and what’s stayed the same?🤝 Long-Term Client Partnerships: Why great digital work happens over time, not in quick wins.🎤 Radical Thinking: Why everyone should embrace collaboration, get off their backside, and just start something.🗣️ "Work should feel like being in a band—you and a few people in a room, making something great together."🗣️ "We focus too much on what divides us and not enough on what brings us together."🗣️ "Great digital projects are like gigs—lots of practice, then a big moment where it all comes together."Sepas Seraj on LinkedIn: Sepas Seraj LinkedInPixeled Eggs Website: Pixeled EggsRob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

 *Use code RADICAL10 for 10% off a standard ticket for Aspire Leadership's public courses.*In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes speaks with Pradeep Jeyaratnam-Joyner, Head of Company Development at Aspire Leadership, a B Corp consultancy focused on leadership, communication, and workplace culture. Pradeep shares his journey from growing up in Stoke to training as an actor, and how those experiences shaped his views on leadership, inclusion, and the power of storytelling. This insightful conversation explores what it means to be a leader today, the challenges leaders face in a changing world, and how storytelling and inclusion can transform workplace cultures.In this episode, we discuss:Pradeep’s Unconventional Path: From a South Asian upbringing in Stoke to acting school and eventually a career in leadership development.Lessons from Acting: How acting taught Pradeep about resilience, self-awareness, and the dynamics of human interaction, and how these lessons translate to leadership.The Leadership Landscape: How the role of leaders has evolved in recent years, including the challenges of enabling teams, creating psychological safety, and navigating external pressures like climate change and societal expectations.The Power of Storytelling: Why stories are fundamental to human connection and how leaders can use storytelling to foster understanding, build trust, and create a shared vision.Inclusion and Cultural Change: Pradeep’s thoughts on diversity and inclusion in the workplace, and the importance of creating space for differing perspectives.Radical Ideas for the World: Encouraging people to volunteer as trustees for small charities and why good governance is vital for local organisations.Memorable Quotes:"Leadership doesn’t always come from the top—it can come from anywhere in an organisation.""Great storytelling isn’t just about the end of the story; it’s about showing how you got there.""If we can learn to work with differing perspectives, we can work with any kind of diversity."Further Reading and Resources:The Gift by Lewis Hyde - A book exploring the nature of giving and art in society.Aspire Leadership Website: Aspire LeadershipFollow Pradeep and Aspire Leadership:Pradeep Jeyaratnam-Joyner on LinkedIn: Pradeep Jeyaratnam-Joyner LinkedInAspire Leadership on LinkedIn: Aspire Leadership LinkedInStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes talks with Matt Herbert, co-founder and co-CEO of Tracksuit, the brand tracking platform revolutionising how brands measure their impact. Matt shares his journey from an outdoorsy upbringing in New Zealand to co-founding a global tech company. They discuss the challenges of scaling a startup, enabling creativity through data, and making conscious personal choices that align with one’s values. This conversation provides inspiring insights into modern marketing, leadership, and the importance of action in turning ideas into reality.In this episode, we discuss:Matt’s Entrepreneurial Roots: How growing up with a trailblazing father in New Zealand shaped Matt’s fearless and innovative mindset.The Tracksuit Story: How Matt and his co-founders bootstrapped their brand tracking platform and validated it with real customer needs before securing venture capital.Revolutionising Brand Tracking: How Tracksuit is making brand performance data accessible to all businesses, not just corporate giants.Balancing Brand and Performance Marketing: The importance of combining long-term brand building with short-term sales activation to drive sustainable growth.Startup Leadership: Lessons from co-leading a fast-growing startup, including empowering teams, hiring exceptional talent, and keeping the company mission clear.Conscious Personal Choices: Matt’s journey to veganism and how personal values can drive meaningful change.Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: The power of starting small, talking to people, and embracing a bias for action.Memorable Quotes:"The world of startups is littered with ideas that never got validated. Talk to people, ask for feedback, and make things happen.""Brands need a common language to show their impact and secure their seat at the boardroom table.""Sustainable growth comes from converting demand today and building demand for tomorrow."Further Reading and Resources:The Long and the Short of It - Les Binet and Peter Field’s seminal work on marketing effectiveness.Future Demand - James Herman’s book on the importance of brand building for modern businesses.Follow Matt and TrackSuit:Matt Herbert on LinkedIn: Matt Herbert LinkedInTrackSuit Website: TrackSuitStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode, host Rob Fawkes speaks with George Gabriel, co-founder of The Dad Shift, a campaign advocating for fairer paternity and secondary caregiver leave in the UK. George shares his personal story, from growing up with a feminist activist mother to leading campaigns for refugees and working in the tech sector at Meta. They discuss the urgent need for change in the UK’s parental leave policies, the challenges of launching a grassroots campaign, and how fatherhood shaped George’s perspective on equality and family life.In this episode, we discuss:George’s Activist Roots: Growing up with a trailblazing feminist mother and how it influenced his passion for campaigning.Fatherhood and Parental Leave: George’s personal experiences during his paternity leave and the stark contrast between his opportunities and the statutory offer in the UK.Launching The Dad Shift Campaign: The mission to address the UK’s woefully inadequate paternity leave policies and the creative stunt used to grab public attention.Global Comparisons: Lessons from countries like Sweden, where shared parental leave policies help bridge the gender gap and support families better.Why Employers Should Care: The benefits of improved parental leave policies for businesses, from attracting and retaining talent to enhancing productivity.Advice for Aspiring Campaigners: Why starting, learning, and finding allies is key to building momentum for change.Memorable Quotes:"Radicalism, candour, and kindness are muscles you have to build—and the only way to build them is to start.""The gender pay gap is a double bind—we can only solve it if more fathers take paternity leave.""Supporting families at critical moments isn’t just good for employees, it’s good for business too."Get Involved:Sign the Dad Shift Letter to Labour: Visit The Dad ShiftFurther Reading and Resources:The Fatherhood Institute: Advocating for gender equality in parenting.Pregnant Then Screwed: Fighting for parents' rights and better workplace policies.Richard Reeves' Book - Of Boys and Men: Exploring modern male challenges and solutions.Follow George and The Dad Shift:George Gabriel on LinkedIn: George Gabriel LinkedInThe Dad Shift Website: The Dad ShiftStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes speaks with Halima Begum, CEO of Oxfam GB, about her journey from grassroots activism to leading one of the world’s most impactful humanitarian organisations. Halima shares her vision for Oxfam’s future, her personal story of resilience and leadership, and her thoughts on the systemic changes needed to address inequality and injustice worldwide. This powerful conversation explores the challenges of modern philanthropy, the importance of empowering communities, and how to maintain hope and momentum in the face of global crises.In this episode, we discuss:Halima’s Personal Journey: Growing up in East London as the daughter of Bangladeshi immigrants and how her upbringing shaped her passion for social justice.Leadership at Oxfam: How Halima is steering Oxfam towards tackling systemic inequality and addressing the root causes of poverty.Empowering Communities: Why listening to the voices of those impacted by poverty and inequality is key to meaningful change.The Future of Philanthropy: Halima’s take on the role of large organisations like Oxfam in a rapidly changing world.Radical Ideas for Change: How redistribution, climate action, and addressing corporate responsibility are central to creating a fairer world.Advice for Aspiring Changemakers: Halima’s reflections on the importance of staying true to your values and finding allies in your mission.Memorable Quotes:"Empowering communities starts with listening to their stories and letting them lead the change.""Philanthropy isn't about charity—it’s about justice and addressing the systems that perpetuate inequality.""The world doesn't change with complacency; it changes when people act on bold, radical ideas."Further Reading and Resources:Oxfam GB Website: Learn More About Oxfam’s WorkFollow Halima and Oxfam:Halima Begum on LinkedIn: Halima Begum LinkedInStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, Rob speaks with Clare Jones, CEO of Polarsteps, a popular travel app that allows users to plan, track, and relive their travel experiences. Clare, a former Chief Commercial Officer of What3Words, shares her journey from a childhood influenced by activism to becoming the leader of a travel-focused tech company. They discuss Polarsteps’ mission to encourage mindful travel, Clare’s experiences with transformative travel, and her thoughts on broader issues like Universal Basic Income (UBI).In this episode, we discuss:Clare’s Background and Activism: Growing up with activist parents and how it shaped her views on social responsibility, ethics, and leadership.Becoming CEO of Polarsteps: Her journey to leading Polarsteps and why it felt like a natural fit.Polarsteps and Responsible Travel: How Polarsteps helps users travel in a more responsible and adventurous way, from discovering unique destinations to respecting local communities.Travel’s Transformative Power: Clare’s experiences with travel that deeply impacted her, both personally and professionally, and her advice on exploring new places mindfully.A Radical Vision for UBI: Clare’s interest in Universal Basic Income, inspired by her work with disadvantaged communities, and why she believes UBI could be a solution for supporting individuals in society.Advice for Aspiring Change-Makers: Encouraging people to share their ideas widely, gather support, and take steps toward making a positive impact.Further Reading and Resources:Byway Travel - Clare’s sister’s company offering flight-free travel options across Europe.GiveDirectly - An organisation exploring the benefits of Universal Basic Income in communities worldwide.Follow Clare and Polarsteps:Clare Jones on LinkedIn: Clare Jones LinkedInPolarsteps Website: PolarstepsStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, Rob is joined by Jambu Palaniappan, the CEO of Checkatrade, to discuss the evolution of the platform, the future of the UK tech sector, and his journey from Silicon Valley to leading a British startup. Jambu shares insights into the challenges and opportunities within the home improvement industry, his leadership philosophy, and how he balances ambition with effective decision-making. This conversation also delves into Jambu’s views on encouraging entrepreneurship in the UK and the importance of being comfortable with failure and ambiguity.In this episode, we discuss:Jambu’s Background and Journey to the UK: From growing up in Silicon Valley to his early career at Uber, and what led him to Checkatrade.Leadership at Checkatrade: How Jambu approaches leading a well-established British brand with a focus on innovation, radical candour, and empowering his team.The Future of Checkatrade: Plans for expanding the platform’s value for both consumers and trade members, including the launch of a new consumer app and improved lead management tools for trades.UK Tech Sector and Entrepreneurship: Jambu’s optimistic view on the UK’s potential in tech innovation and the need for a cultural shift towards embracing risk and failure.Balancing Work and Life: Jambu’s personal routines, including fitness and family time, that help him maintain balance and focus as a leader.Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs: The importance of writing down ideas to gain clarity and seeking feedback from industry experts to build conviction.Memorable Quotes:"Comfort with ambiguity will get you really far—it's something we as a society need to get better at.""We have a responsibility to think bigger, to ask how we can create 10 times or even 100 times more value.""There's a lot of power in writing things down; it brings clarity and helps you gain conviction in your ideas."Follow Jambu and Checkatrade:Jambu Palaniappan on LinkedIn: Jambu Palaniappan LinkedInCheckatrade Website: CheckatradeStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode of A Little Bit Radical, host Rob Fawkes talks with Bruce Taylor, the Founder and President of Enviro Stewards, an engineering consultancy focused on sustainable development. Bruce shares his journey from a traditional engineering career to founding a company that not only improves business efficiency but also significantly contributes to global sustainability efforts. The conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of leading decarbonisation projects for major companies like Unilever and Maple Leaf Foods, as well as Bruce's deep commitment to international development work in countries like South Sudan and Uganda.In this episode, we discuss:Bruce’s Early Life and Career Path: How feeling like an outsider as a teenager and a “pre-life crisis” in his mid-20s shaped his approach to life and work.Founding Enviro Stewards: The motivations behind starting his own company, integrating volunteer work into the business model, and encouraging his employees to do the same.Decarbonization Strategy with Unilever: Insights into spearheading Unilever’s ambitious goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2027, and how deep conservation measures can drive significant savings and sustainability.Success Stories and Challenges: The strategic approach Bruce uses to help companies like Maple Leaf Foods and others achieve carbon neutrality while saving millions.International Development Work: The impact of Enviro Stewards' projects in South Sudan and Uganda, focusing on long-term sustainability and capacity building rather than traditional charity models.Leadership in Sustainability: The critical role of leadership and overcoming inertia in achieving sustainability goals, and the importance of empathy and understanding company culture.Global Responsibility: Why it’s crucial to think beyond local investments and consider the broader global impact, especially in developing countries disproportionately affected by climate change.Memorable Quotes:“Sustainability isn’t just about reducing harm—it’s about creating a positive impact that benefits both the environment and society.”“Deep conservation first is the best way to go because that’s what generates the savings to pay for the rest of the journey.”“The problem with Africa is in our head—the way we think about helping can actually create damage if we’re not careful.”Resources Mentioned:Bruce Taylor’s TEDx Talk: Watch here (Include link to the TEDx talk)Follow Bruce and Enviro Stewards:Bruce Taylor on LinkedIn: Bruce Taylor LinkedInEnviro Stewards Website: Enviro StewardsStay Connected with Rob and 'A Little Bit Radical':Rob Fawkes on LinkedIn: Rob Fawkes LinkedInA Little Bit Radical Newsletter: Sign Up HereVisit ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Tony Jamous, CEO and founder of Oyster, discusses the mission of his company to democratise access to global job opportunities and the shift towards remote and distributed work. He shares his personal journey growing up in Lebanon during a civil war and how it shaped his perspective on fear and courage. Tony emphasises the importance of reducing consumption patterns and reconnecting with oneself and the environment. He also highlights the need for leaders to prioritise the well-being and flexibility of their teams, and the potential for AI to transform the hiring process.Key Takeaways Oyster aims to make global employment the default by 'softwareising' the global employment market and making global hiring as easy as local hiring.Reducing consumption patterns and reconnecting with oneself and the environment can lead to improved mental health, happiness, and well-being.Leaders should prioritise the well-being and flexibility of their teams and create a culture that makes people successful no matter where they live.The shift towards remote and distributed work has the potential to create more equal opportunities and redistribute wealth from the rich West to the developing world.AI can transform the hiring process by making it easier for businesses to find talent globally and for job seekers to access job opportunities worldwide.Tony on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teljamou/Visit: https://oysterhr.com/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear: [email protected] ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Sophie Lee, founder of Electric Peach, shares her journey of becoming a radical entrepreneur and the importance of questioning the status quo. She discusses her rebellious nature from a young age and how it has evolved into a more considered approach to making a social and environmental impact through her work. Sophie also opens up about her personal struggles with addiction and how it has shaped her empathy and passion for de-stigmatising conversations around mental health and addiction. She shares the story of firing her clients and the transformative effect it had on her business. Overall, Sophie emphasises the need to be true to oneself and stand up for what is right. As the founder of Electric Peach, she shares her journey of rebranding her business and the work she's proud of, including a research project for the UN on the climate crisis. She discusses the importance of changing the narrative around the climate crisis to inspire action and the need for personalised communication. Sophie also shares her thoughts on being a B Corp and the challenges of upholding holistic impact. She offers advice on supporting colleagues struggling with addiction and emphasises the importance of creating a safe and non-judgmental environment. Key takeaways:Questioning the status quo and challenging the way things have always been done is essential for creating positive change.Personal struggles and experiences can shape empathy and a passion for making a difference in areas like mental health and addiction.Firing clients who are not aligned with your values and goals can lead to transformative opportunities and growth.Being true to oneself and standing up for what is right is a radical act that can have a significant impact. Changing the narrative around the climate crisis is crucial to inspire action.Personalised communication that speaks to individuals' needs and lives is more effective than a blame-focused approach.Being a B Corp is about prioritising social and sustainable impact, but there are challenges in upholding holistic impact.Creating a safe and non-judgmental environment is key to supporting colleagues struggling with addiction.Allowing ourselves and others to shine fully as we are and embracing diversity is a radical change for the world.Sophie on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophieturton/Visit: https://electricpeach.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected] ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Andy Shovel, co-founder of a plant-based sensation, THIS, discusses his journey to entrepreneurship and his radical approach to animal advocacy. He shares how his early life experiences and relationship with his parents shaped his independent thinking and led him to become a serial entrepreneur. Andy also highlights his privilege and how important it is for more entrepreneurs and business owners to acknowledge the advantages they've had in founding a business.He delves into his awakening to animal cruelty and the development of plant-based products that taste like meat. Lastly, he discusses the company's irreverent and controversial marketing strategies. Andy discusses his approach to using humour in marketing to lower defences and promote plant-based products. He shares examples of controversial campaigns and the challenges of balancing the interests of meat eaters and vegans. Andy also introduces his new venture, A Bit Weird, an animal advocacy charity that aims to tackle the cruelest aspects of animal treatment. He emphasises the importance of reframing how people see animals and addresses the need for stricter regulations in pet ownership. TakeawaysIndependence and a different worldview from his parents shaped Andy's radical thinking.Entrepreneurship often requires a certain level of privilege and advantages.Andy's awakening to animal cruelty led him to start a plant-based business.Creating plant-based products that taste like meat requires extensive research and development.The company's marketing strategies aim to shock and entertain while promoting plant-based food. Using humour can help lower defences and make people more open to considering new ideas.Balancing the interests of meat eaters and vegans can be challenging due to their opposing worldviews.Controversial campaigns can generate backlash, but they can also lead to a net reduction in animal suffering.Animal advocacy should focus on challenging speciesism and reframing how people see animals.Andy on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-shovel-92533414/Visit: this.co Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: standingongiants.com

Hannah Keartland, an outsourced Chief Impact Officer, discusses the importance of flexibility and adaptation in achieving impact goals. Hannah also highlights the role of inclusive culture in driving sustainability and innovation. She shares her journey from the finance sector to impact-focused work and the importance of financial sustainability in the charity sector. Hannah provides insights into the financial argument for creating social and environmental impact and the role of finance directors in driving change. She concludes by discussing her work as an outsourced Chief Impact Officer, helping businesses navigate their responsible business journey. The conversation explores the importance of understanding the full impact of leadership decisions and taking responsibility for reducing negative impacts and increasing positive impacts. It highlights the need for leaders in politics and business to consider the ripple effects of their actions. The lack of responsibility in business leadership is also discussed, with examples of companies not following through on sustainability policies. The conversation concludes with advice on getting started with radical ideas, emphasising the importance of research, connecting with others, and staying true to one's vision.TakeawaysFlexibility and adaptation are crucial in goal setting and achieving long-term success.Inclusive culture and diverse teams are essential for driving sustainability and innovation.Financial sustainability is crucial for organisations to make a lasting impact.Finance directors play a vital role in creating sustainable businesses and driving change.Governance and leadership are key drivers of systemic change for sustainability.Hannah on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannahkeartland/Visit: https://www.keartland.co/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Celia Gaze, founder of The Wellbeing Farm, shares her journey of creating a unique and sustainable hospitality venue. She discusses the challenges of the hospitality industry, her background in the NHS, and the impact of stress and burnout. Celia explains how she transformed a rundown farm into The Wellbeing Farm and the importance of the B Corp movement in the industry. The Wellbeing Farm offers weddings, corporate events, and parties, with a focus on sustainability and community engagement. Celia discusses the importance of sustainability in the hospitality industry and the need for businesses to be more ethical and meaningful. She emphasises the need for improved working conditions for hospitality workers and highlights the Burnt Chef Project, which aims to address the challenges faced by workers in the industry. Celia also shares her journey to becoming a B Corp and the positive impact it has had on her business. She discusses the implementation of sustainable practices, such as waste management and sourcing local products. Celia advocates for the Better Business Act and calls for businesses to prioritize the well-being of staff, the community, and the planet. She encourages individuals with radical ideas to start small, seek advice, and test their ideas before fully committing.Takeaways:The hospitality industry is facing challenges in terms of worker shortages and the need for reform.Stress and burnout are prevalent in the industry, and it is important to prioritise well-being and work-life balance.Creating a sustainable and unique hospitality venue requires resilience, creativity, and a commitment to making a positive impact.The B Corp movement provides a framework for businesses to prioritise sustainability, community engagement, and ethical practices. Sustainability in the hospitality industry encompasses the well-being of people, finances, and the community.Improving working conditions in hospitality is crucial, and businesses should prioritise the well-being of their staff.Becoming a B Corp can have a positive impact on a business and its sustainability efforts.Implementing sustainable practices, such as waste management and sourcing local products, can contribute to a more ethical and meaningful business.The Better Business Act is an important step towards transforming society and encouraging businesses to prioritise the well-being of staff, the community, and the planet.Individuals with radical ideas should start small, seek advice, and test their ideas before fully committing.Celia on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/celiagaze/Visit: https://thewellbeingfarm.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this conversation, James, the Director of Growth and Product at B Lab UK, discusses the B Corp movement and its impact on businesses. He explains that B Corps are companies committed to using business as a force for good, prioritising social and environmental performance alongside profits. James shares his personal journey towards becoming more radical and the importance of engaging with others to drive change. He highlights the need for businesses to consider the impact on all stakeholders, not just shareholders, and describes the shift from a shareholder value-led lens to a stakeholder value-led lens. James also discusses the growth of B Lab and the increasing number of B Corps worldwide. The conversation explores the B Corp movement and its focus on governance and stakeholder engagement. Tony's Chocolonely is highlighted as an example of a company innovating with its governance model. The discussion also delves into the evolution of B Corp standards and the challenges in implementing new standards. The importance of aligning personal values with business goals is emphasised, and the concept of the veil of ignorance is introduced as a way to design a more just society. The conversation concludes with advice for those starting a radical idea, encouraging them to bake their values into their business from the start.We discuss:How B Corps are companies committed to using business as a force for good, prioritising social and environmental performance alongside profits.Engaging with others and compromising are essential for driving meaningful change.Businesses need to consider the impact on all stakeholders, not just shareholders, to create long-term prosperity.The B Corp movement is growing rapidly, with an increasing number of businesses worldwide becoming B Corps.James on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-ghaffari-7b526b55/Visit: https://bcorporation.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Matt Semmelhack, founder of Boox, is on a mission to reinvent our relationship with cardboard shipping boxes. Boox is a reusable box and shipping system designed to make reuse fun and cool. The conversation explores Matt's background, the urgency around climate change, and the need for systemic change in waste and packaging. They discuss the challenges of reducing waste in the e-commerce industry, the concept of reduce, reuse, recycle, and the importance of making reuse easy and affordable. Matt shares insights into the circular economy and the chicken-and-egg problem of building the infrastructure for reusable products. He highlights the importance of reducing waste and the environmental impact of single-use packaging. Matt also emphasises the need for convenience and ease of use in order to encourage consumer participation in reuse. He shares the growth of Boox and the validation they have received from both large companies and small businesses. We discuss:Boox is a reusable box and shipping system designed to make reuse fun and cool.The e-commerce industry generates a staggering number of packages each year, with cardboard boxes being the most commonly used.The current approach to waste and packaging focuses too much on recycling and not enough on reducing and reusing.The challenge is to get consumers to participate in the reuse process and make it easy and affordable.Building the infrastructure for reusable products is a chicken-and-egg problem that requires collaboration between companies and consumers. Reusable packaging systems can help reduce waste and the environmental impact of single-use packaging.Convenience and ease of use are crucial in encouraging consumer participation in reuse.Validation from both large companies and small businesses is important for the growth and success of sustainable initiatives.Adopting secondhand clothing is a simple and impactful change that anyone can make to reduce waste.Matt on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattsemmelhack/Visit: boox.ecoRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this episode, we are joined by Daniele Fiandaca, founder of Token Man, an initiative aimed at creating more inclusive workplaces by engaging men in the conversation. Daniele shares insights from his own life experiences that shaped his approach to work and diversity, including his educational background and early family influences.Daniele opens up about the formative experiences of his childhood and education, discussing how these shaped his perspectives on work and personal drive. He reflects on the impact of his parents, particularly his father's immigrant background and his mother's artistic influence, which blended a unique mix of creativity and fiscal pragmatism in his approach to life and business.Throughout the episode, Daniele discusses the importance of redefining workplace norms and inclusivity. He shares the challenges and triumphs of launching Utopia, a culture change business, and how the shift to virtual engagements during the lockdown spurred innovative ways to maintain connection and effectiveness. Daniele also touches on his earlier work with Token Man and the personal and professional shifts required to foster true inclusivity in work environments.Key highlights include:Daniele's journey from accounting to award-winning creativity in advertising.The role of mentorship and leadership in fostering inclusive environments.Practical insights on how businesses can effectively engage men in diversity and inclusion efforts.Understanding the importance of inclusion in the workplace and the critical role men play in diversity efforts.The power of vulnerability and personal stories in leadership.Innovative approaches to maintaining engagement and effectiveness in virtual settings.The need for systemic change in corporate cultures to embrace true diversity.Visit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Fiona Ras-Jones, founder of Mission Works, supports businesses with a purpose and those who want one to deliver impact through profitably solving a social or environmental challenge. In this conversation, Fiona shares her journey from being awakened to social and environmental challenges in her early life, to taking action through exploring different paths. She discusses the challenges of scaling social enterprises and the need for support and infrastructure. Fiona also highlights the importance of purpose-driven businesses and the birth of Mission Works. In this conversation, Fiona Ras-Jones discusses the B Corp movement and the importance of going beyond B Corp certification. She explains that B Corp is more than just a box-ticking exercise and highlights its comprehensive approach to social and environmental impact. Fiona also introduces Mission Works and the concept of mission-led businesses, which aim to profitably solve social or environmental challenges. She emphasises the need to define and measure the problem a business is trying to solve and offers advice on getting started with a radical idea.Key TakeawaysMission Works supports businesses with a purpose to deliver impact through profitably solving a social or environmental challenge.There is a need for support and infrastructure to help social enterprises scale.Purpose-driven businesses have the potential to make a significant impact.Fiona's journey highlights the importance of being awakened to social and environmental challenges and taking action to create positive change. B Corp is a comprehensive certification that goes beyond social and environmental impact and includes governance, worker treatment, community engagement, and customer relations.B Corp should be seen as a starting point for businesses, not the end goal. There is much more beyond B Corp in terms of deep impact and continuous improvement.Mission-led businesses have a clearly defined and measurable problem they aim to solve, and they align their business model and strategy to achieve impact and profitability.When exploring a problem to solve, businesses should consider their unique abilities, industry expertise, customer needs, and social and environmental challenges within their industry.Mission-led businesses can achieve both purpose and profit, and there is an imperative to grow in order to create a larger positive impact.It is important to focus on product-market fit and start with a minimum viable product that solves a problem, and then iterate and add more ethical, social, and environmental benefits over time.Fiona on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-ras-jones/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In this conversation, Jo Haywood, founder of Skylark Media, discusses her journey as a former BBC producer and her mission to use video as a force for good. She shares her early inspiration from her biologist mother and her desire to make a positive impact on the environment. Jo reflects on her work producing groundbreaking films on climate change in the early 90s and the challenges of raising awareness at a time when few people cared about the issue. She then explains how she founded Skylark with the goal of changing the purpose of business to prioritise people and the planet. Jo highlights some of Skylark's impactful campaigns and videos, including their work with Buglife and their films on hydrogen power. Jo discusses her award-winning collaborations, the importance of building a different type of media business, and the value of B Corp certification. She shares insights on overcoming established thinking, empowering employees, and the need for radical innovative thinking. Jo also emphasizes the importance of finding happiness without consuming power and the need to educate women for a more sustainable society. Her advice for someone with a radical idea is to be ready, shoot, and aim, and to not get caught up in overthinking and delaying action.Key takeaways from this conversation:Video can be a powerful tool for storytelling and raising awareness about important issues.The mission and values of a business should come before the work. It's important to have a clear story and purpose behind your work.The environmental movement has gained traction over the years, and businesses are now recognising the value of incorporating sustainability into their messaging.Videos have the potential to make a significant impact, whether it's securing funding for a cause or influencing government decisions. Collaborations and awards can bring recognition and success in the media industry.Building a different type of media business requires a systemised approach and a focus on customer service.B Corp certification can lead to positive changes in working practices and a more sustainable business.Overcoming established thinking and giving everyone a voice can foster innovative thinking and drive positive change.Finding happiness without consuming power and educating women are important for a more sustainable society.Jo on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johaywood/Visit: https://www.skylarkmedia.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Visit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

David Schluter, founder of Fluid IT, shares his journey from his early life influences to founding his company and the challenges he faced along the way. He discusses the importance of mental health and his experience with burnout, as well as the impact of hiring people from challenging backgrounds. He also highlights the role of Lord Evans, former head of MI5, on his advisory board. In this conversation, David shares his experiences of running a business as a vehicle for change. He discusses the journey of one of his employees, Gary, who overcame significant challenges to become an exceptional manager. David emphasizes the importance of taking a chance on people and how they can pay you back in unexpected ways. He also highlights the joy and freedom of doing business differently, focusing on kindness and cultural development. David believes that business should bring life and positive impact throughout the entire journey, not just at the end. He advocates for treating people generously and embracing slow business as the way forward.Key TakeawaysReflecting on your journey and finding your reason for continuing is important in business.Creating a supportive work environment where people can bring their authentic selves is powerful.Hiring people from challenging backgrounds can provide opportunities for growth and transformation.Having an advisory board with diverse perspectives can provide valuable insights and accountability.David on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dschluter/Visit: https://www.fluid-it.com/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Visit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠Host: Rob FawkesProducer: Lukas Blasberg

Richard Dickson, co-founder of Play It Green, discusses the importance of questioning the status quo. He shares his experience with neurodiversity and how it has shaped his perspective. Richard also talks about becoming more radical and overcoming challenges in his personal and professional life, including stepping into the MMA ring in his 40s. He introduces Play It Green and its mission to help businesses reduce their environmental footprint, repair the planet through tree planting, and re-gift funds to good causes.Chapters(00:01) Sustainable Business and Neurodiversity Journey(13:10) Creating a Climate Positive Workforce(21:19) Promoting Sustainability in Business Communities(28:37) Systemic Change for a Sustainable FutureRichard on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardiandickson/Visit playitgreen.comRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Join us for this inspiring episode as we dive into the fascinating world of Emma Locke, Change and Communications Lead at Perfetti Van Melle. Emma shares her unique insights on driving diversity, equity, and inclusion in a global company, her passions outside of work, and how these experiences shape her approach to leadership.We discuss:(00:01) Introduction to Emma Locke and Her Commitment to Diversity(01:07) Emma's Early Life Experiences Shaping Her Strong Character(03:14) The 'People First' Mentality in Business(04:18) Emma’s Passion for Cars and Motorbikes(10:03) Leading a Business: Similarities to Motorbike Riding(20:49) Initiating Diversity and Inclusion Programmes(30:37) Addressing Menopause in the Workplace(35:58) The Importance of Kindness and Compassion in Leadership(40:22) Wrapping Up: Reflections on Leadership and ChangeConnect with Emma:Emma Locke on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmallocke/Learn more about Perfetti Van Melle:Visit: https://www.perfettivanmelle.com/Connect with Host Rob:Rob on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Interested in joining the conversation?Reach out at: [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

How much coffee have you drunk today? We had the pleasure of sitting down with Holly Kragiopoulos, co-founder of Northstar Coffee, who shared her powerful story of forging a new path for the coffee industry amid looming shortages and environmental challenges. Our conversation traversed her personal journey, from the influence of her father's research to her transformative experiences in Australia, and how these have shaped her approach to the business and parenthood.We discuss:(00:01) Rethinking Coffee, Work, and Parenthood(07:32) Coffee Supply Chain and Motivation(18:48) Challenges Facing the Coffee Industry(30:59) The Impact of B Corp Accreditation(36:25) Importance of Empathy and AccountabilityHolly on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/holly-kragiopoulos-53501156/Visit: https://www.northstarroast.com/en-gbRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Amy Polly is the self-styled 'Mindfulness Rebel'. In a world of very serious, very blue, mental health information, she is a welcome shot of pink. She's the former Strategic Lead for Mental Health & Wellbeing for the Fire Service, and has since worked with organisations like Heineken, Bupa, Sweaty Betty, National Grid and many others. She's on a mission to make mindfulness more accessible and inclusive and joins us for this conversation where we discuss:Her grandfather’s addiction to alcohol and how it informed her behaviour to always try and make people smileThe importance of her supportive parents and having a support networkHow she’s embraced thinking differently as an adultHow she left a solid, 19 year career in accountancy to start working for herself in mindfulness and wellbeingThe shift she felt working for the Fire Service, contributing to a bigger picture The extreme challenges of creating wellbeing programmes in the Fire ServiceThe measures she brought in to support fire fightersThe basics of creating a mentally healthy workforce and how it’s not the things you might thinkHer connection to mindfulness and how it became a passion of hers as a proactive measure for wellbeingPersonal days and bringing the human elements to businessHow Mindfulness isn’t ‘hippy dippy stuff’, it’s brain trainingSome myth busting around MindfulnessAmy leads Rob through a mindfulness exercise Rob’s reflections after the exerciseHer advice to leaders for embedding wellbeing in their businessesHow motherhood is the hardest thing she’s ever done and her ‘Mindfulness for Mums’ programmeThe loneliness of being a mum and the taboo of talking about birth traumaRob shares a rather unfortunate parenting story and how it informed his perspective on parents in businessThe ‘return to the office’ push and the potential negative impacts for some of the workforceFollow Amy on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amypolly/Visit: amypolly.comFollow Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Sign up the the 'A Little Bit Radical' Newsletter here: https://share.hsforms.com/1wJzfsT5RR7melJbfDfpsLw4sranVisit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Surf’s up! Often called the ‘British Patagonia’, Finisterre are one of the most respected names in sustainable fashion. Headquartered in St Agnes, Cornwall, Finisterre produce long-lasting, repairable products inspired by the sea. We’re joined by CMO Bronwen Foster Butler for this episode. She discusses:The dramatic circumstances of her birth in the Canadian wildernessThe effect of having a peculiar name and how she ‘likes to play in the edges’ of lifeHow she became a parent to a daughter during COVID and how that provided an impetus to become more radical Her experience in a previous role of being asked ‘whether she wanted a promotion, or to become a parent’Finisterre’s approach to flexibility and inclusionWorking for a boss who is a CEO and a RNLI helmsmanHer commitment to ‘how you get the job done’ not ‘when you get the job done’‘Sea Tuesdays’ - where the whole team get an hour to connect with the seaThe founding story of Finisterre and the mission to create products that serve cold-water surfers, whilst preserving the oceanThe very first product the founder, Tom, createdTheir partnership with the last Merino Wool shepherd in the U.K.How the wetsuit industry is partly responsible for ‘Cancer Alley’ in the USA, with the production of chloroprene - connected to NeopreneHow they are reinventing wetsuits, moving away from petrochemical neoprene, to YULEX rubberLaunching the world’s first YULEX wetsuit rental programmeFinisterre’s repair service - a challenge to fast fashionThe shocking reality of where most of our charity shop clothes goHer reaction to the U.K. government rolling back environmental policyDealing with Climate AnxietyHer approach to leading her team through their Pride campaign, in the face of online trollingBronwen on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bronwen-foster-butler-73a31923/Visit: finisterre.comRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to get in touch? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Without people you don’t have a business. Higson, are a people consultancy, working with organisations to create progressive work cultures with high productivity and high happiness. Augusta Vivian, is the founder and joins us for this interview where she discusses:How she feels we are all entitled to have fun at workHer personal values of fun, kindness, curiosity, and stubbornness and how her early life shaped thoseHow to go about defining your personal valuesHer entrepreneurial Great Aunt who broke the mould as a woman on her own in business Her experience of being told ‘what to wear to be successful’Her work at Higson to help businesses become more happy, productive workplacesThe common blindspots that businesses face when creating a positive work cultureThe real benefit of unlimited holiday vs an annual allowanceHow to create your company values and design the behaviours within your org to live up to themThe importance of practicality and pragmatism with any cultural change workWhat she’s most proud of in her Founder’s journeyHow she approaches Strategy at Higson and regularly reviews itThe importance of feedback in all directions with radical candourThe charities Higson supports with 20% of profits every year The new phase for Higson: becoming a certified Carbon Literate organisationAugusta on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/augustavivian/Visit: https://consulthigson.com/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Sally runs Something Big, a B Corp, employee-owned agency based in Surrey that punches above its weight. Having won briefs against agency heavyweights like Ogilvy, Something Big specialises in employee communications with a particular focus on DEI initiatives. Clients include DHL, Telefonica, and IAG. In this conversation we discuss:How she’s always been the ‘odd one out’ from her school days Her experience of being the only female in a team of 24 menWhy she had to keep her relationship with her husband secret for over a decadeHow she’s embraced being uncool in an agency world of cool peopleThe significance of turning 50 for herHer work at Something Big and their specialism in employee comms, workplaces, and DEIHer personal connection to DEI through her experience as a woman in a male-dominated workplaceHow the Barbie movie signifies a huge amount of progress in gender equality, but also highlights how there’s more to doHow to run DEI programmes in a huge company that spans 220 countriesHow to build a client relationship 25 years longWhat it takes to be the world’s best workplaceThe problem with agencies who are ‘in it for themselves’ rather than for the clientWinning a brief against OgilvyThe piece of work she’s most proud of The nuts and bolts of employee ownershipBuilding psychological safety in her business by exampleDismantling a blame cultureThe potential commercial windfall from looking after people properlyHow community building could improve our society through citizen engagementConnect with Sally on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/somethingbig/Visit: https://somethingbig.co.uk/Connect with Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Timpson has been a fixture on our high streets since 1865 in the UK. In recent years, they've received acclaim for their approach to hiring ex-offenders. Now, 10% of their workforce have been given an opportunity after a criminal conviction. A unique 'upside-down' company, Timpson eschews many traditional business practices. For example, they don't have a marketing and communications department. In this episode we meet Janet Leighton, Director of Happiness at Timpson. She discusses:How she’s gained a reputation for being ‘bonkers’How her natural optimism gives her resilienceHow important it is to be yourself at workHow belief in people and being kind and considerate is a key to maintaining optimism in the face of challengesWhat has kept her at Timpson for 20 yearsHow Timpson functions without  a marketing and comms team How to get an email reply from James Timpson, the CEOTimpson’s unique ‘upside down management’ style Her road to the role ‘Director of Happiness’How happiness isn’t soft and fluffyTheir radical ‘in-house’ approach to everythingThe day to day of a ‘Director of Happiness’, including what Janet was dealing with on the day of recordingHow Janet deals with colleague issues from financial risk, to suicideThe importance of colleague wellbeing in business performanceHow she feels the solution to financial wellbeing is not necessarily as simple as paying people moreWhat led Timpson to pay for colleagues family funeralsTimpson’s work with offenders and their approach to recruiting ex-offendersWorkers joining the company via ‘release on temporary licence’How best to support ex-offenders entering the workforce How they don’t use CVs and are only interested in ‘what you’re doing today, and what you want to do tomorrow’The state of UK prisons Some of the success stories from the prison recruitment programmeHer offer of help to any business who’s interested in starting a programme for people with prison lived experience Janet on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/janet-leighton-8109891a/Visit: https://www.timpson.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

How is your mental health right now? According to MIND, 1 in 4 of us will experience a mental health challenge this year. For this episode, we meet Paul Smith, MD of JAAQ at Work. JAAQ is a free online platform that provides access to experts in mental health, wellbeing, disability, diversity and many more topics. Founded by Danny Gray, the platform also features the stories of high profile celebrities, sportspeople, and music stars - opening up about their struggles with mental health.  Paul discusses:How he feels his was a ‘lazy’ child and that it was quite a surprise that he ended up being a radical thinkerHis passion for football and his burgeoning career as a professional for Reading FC and IpswichRob’s first career as a professional actor and how that compares to pursuing professional sportHow identity is tied up with our careers and the problems with thatHis career in recruitment and what led him to found his own company with two of his colleaguesThe story of JAAQ. Changing the world of mental health one question at a timeJAAQ’s founder Danny Gray and his struggles with body dysmorphiaThe offering of JAAQ at Work, improving mental health for workplacesHis struggles with transitioning from founder to employeeThe user experience of JAAQThe importance of getting the right expertise and the JAAQ advisory boardThe opportunity for businesses that prioritise wellbeingThe scale of the challenges facing HR leaders The importance of intersectionality and the importance that the platform can help people ask questions they wouldn’t ask in the workplace for fear of embarrassmentHow he feels that no one business has really smashed it out the park on mental health yetThe JAAQ video that’s made the biggest impact on his life Paul on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/psmith0/Visit JAAQ.orgRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Is the world waking up to refillable? From local refill stores, to refill stations in supermarkets, the movement is gathering momentum. Ahead of the curve on this was Phill Kalli of FillRefill, a company committed to making cleaning products for home, hair and body that are good for you and the planet. As the name suggests, all of FillRefill’s products are refillable, making them a great example of a circular economy business. He discusses:His Dad, a maverick chemist and manufacturer who took on ‘big soapers’How he came to reinvent the family business as a consumer facing brandHow a lot of the solutions to our waste problems existed 100 years agoHis first career in the music business, managing an up and coming band ‘Vincent Vincent and the Villains’The lessons he’s taken from the music industry into his current workTransforming an established business into a brand fit for the modern ageTough decisions he’s made, including stopping supplying Chlorine Bleach, their biggest selling product How he avoids feeling insecure about not understanding the chemistry of his businessThe difference between a FillRefill product and the mass market products in the supermarket - from factory to end consumerHis refreshing take on ‘big soap’The decision to make their formulations public and give people the opportunity to buy raw materials and make their own productsThe latest product he’s really excited aboutHow he feels the Government could do more to support the transition away from single use and support small businesses that are accelerating that Visit: www.fillrefill.coPhill on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phillipkalli/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

We order over 6 billion takeaways a year in the UK. Many of those are ordered on Deliveroo. Now celebrating its 10th anniversary, and operating in 10 countries.  Our guest, Elena Devis, is former Head of Vegan Category at Deliveroo, now a consultant in the plant based space. In this conversation she discusses:Her adventurous spirit from a young age, including travelling overseas by herself at 13Her first exposure to the word ‘vegan’ and the steep learning curve from her meat and fish heavy diet in Valencia, SpainThe changes in her health she saw upon going veganHow she feels there’s ‘less ego’ in her decisions now as she’s got olderHer pragmatic approach to lifestyle change as opposed to an absolutist approachHer time at Deliveroo over 5 years of huge growth and evolutionThe importance of great leadersHow she created her own role as Head of Vegan Category at DeliverooHer approach to working with partners to adopt new ideas and new dishesHow to fight for the role and projects you want in a large business with the right data, stakeholders, and propositionHow ‘being human’ is the most important thing about being a managerHow PMS and the menstrual cycle affects women at work and how men can best support their colleaguesHow her manager’s approach to her PMS was life changing and the importance of menstrual leaveHer passion for meditationElena on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elenadevisgimenez/Visit: https://www.plant-futures.com/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Designing campaigns for Patagonia, Selfridges, BMW, and Penguin Books, Forster Communications is an award-winning communications agency.  Our guest today is Peter Gilheany, Board Director at Forster. An employee-owned B Corp, Forster are a great example of how to live your values. They’ve turned down lucrative briefs from companies that refuse to declare a climate emergency, and have even set sustainability goals for their existing clients in order to continue working together. He discusses:His working class Irish background and his parents ‘relaxed’ attitude to their 5 childrenHow he and his siblings have all forged their own pathsThe difference between being a ‘strategic’ or ‘tactical careerist How there is a huge need to challenge what is seen as ‘received wisdom’The narrow view of what a ‘good career’ is The story of Forster Communications and the founder Jilly Forster, former Head of Communications for the Body ShopEmployee Ownership and how it works at ForsterThe pieces of work that best embody Forster CommunicationsHow to walk the talk on tackling the climate emergency for any businessThe stringent targets they set for themselves, their community, and their clientsWhat happened when they told their clients to publicly declare a climate emergency and set net zero targetsA leap into the unknown around a social housing project that led to incredible resultsHis surprising response to being labelled a ‘lifestyle business’Who knows how to communicate about climate change better? Extinction Rebellion or the average PR agency?His take on GreenwashingHow to turn down briefs that don’t align with your valuesThe campaign he’s ashamed of and wouldn’t take todayThe pervasive hangover within business that you can either be financially successful, or morally good The evolution in the charity sector over their corporate social responsibilityThe future of the charity sector, financially unstable, but ideologically free to campaign and speak truth to powerPeter on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgilheany/Visit: https://forster.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

*Remember to follow A Little Bit Radical to help us land more awesome guests!*Matchable volunteering is revolutionising the way companies volunteer. Far from the days of painting fences and picking up litter, Matchable finds you a perfect volunteering opportunity for your interests, skillset, and time available. Boasting clients like Primark, Lululemon and Dentsu, Matchable has created over £2m+ of impact value through volunteer partnerships. Today we're speaking to Foong, the founder, who shares her journey so far including:Her traditional asian upbringing and her 'tiger mum'Being sent to a French school in London. The only Asian kid, and the only non-French speaking kidHer mum's unique approach to pocket moneyThe discipline her childhood gave her and how that's been useful in her careerHow she 'lived someone else's idea of success' with a career in a Big 4 accountancy firmThe ultimate rebellion against her parents to become a startup founderThe genesis of Matchable and the mission to revolutionise company volunteeringHow she's motivated by helping people find their purpose through volunteeringHow she set about becoming a founder and what a founder looks like todayHer fear of public speakingThe challenges involved in being a founder and how you're expected to do EVERYTHINGHer approach to hiring and empowering people to own their area of the businessThe experience of volunteering through Matchable Reducing the volunteer matching journey from 3 months, to 3 minutesThe focus on UXThe range of organisation available on the platform - from traditional charities to more innovative impact startupsProviding more flexibility to employees around their volunteering - opportunities from 30 minutes of contribution and encompassing a range of skillsWhen the CEO of Dentsu volunteered to write a blog for one of their impact organisationsThe benefits for businesses of running a volunteering programme from ESG KPIs, to employee retention, to learning and developmentThe hidden load of emotional labour that can land on leadersFoong on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wai-foong-ng/Visit: wearematchable.comRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

How did you sleep last night? Would you like to sleep better? Chances are you answered that with a resounding yes! Kaveh Memari is the Founder of sofi.health, a startup combining ancient plant medicine with cutting edge A.I. to improve your sleep and state of calm. Through a tailor-made spray, Sofi responds to your ongoing needs and feedback, using machine-learning to adjust dosage and blend as you go. Kaveh discusses:His experience in 10 different schools in 4 different countries before the age of 9The importance of being able to make friends quickly The ‘pandemics pre-pandemic’ of poor sleep and stressHow he hopes he’ll ‘never become an adult’ and his approach to ‘play not work’ His team at Sofi - where everyone is a ‘one off’How the Sofi product was developed with a group of customers ’Pioneers’ The Sofi product - using ancient plant medicine, combined with cutting edge machine learning and data, to tackle poor sleep and stressHow to personalise products at scaleThe initial pilot with Valerian in 2022 and how they mapped 300 unique responses The staggering results from their first trial The potential impact if we could stop prescribing the wrong medication on a global scaleThe science and safeguards in place to avoid dependency and addiction on Sofi productsThe Sofi moonshotHow he stays resolute in the face of adversity and being told his idea will never workHis answer to the moral question of collecting huge amounts of health data The power of mixing disciplines: from biochemistry to medical herbalismFind out more at sofi.heatlhFollow Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Blair Glencorse is the Founder and Executive Director of Accountability Lab, a global NGO focussing on empowering citizens to make changes they know are necessary in their communities. A global expert in citizen engagement and anti-corruption, Blair has a unique approach to improving governance and accountability across the world. Whether it's 'naming and faming' honest and trustworthy government officials through X Factor style 'Integrity Icon', or publishing the annual strategy in a rap song. He discusses:'Positive deviance' - what it is and why it's been important to him since childhoodThe problem with the way we set up incentives in our societyThe 'Integrity Icon' project and how it made honest government officials famous - starting in NepalHis experience at the World Bank and how the idea for Accountability Lab came from his work with people in NepalHow most frontline issues, be it lack of education or clean water, stem from a lack of accountability in leadershipThe mission of Accountability Lab today and his roleWhy they chose to publish their strategy in hip-hop form (listen to a clip!) and the problem with most corporate strategy documentsTheir engagement with musicians, artists and technologists to amplify their ideas through cultureHow accountability will be good for business in the futureHis approach to 'radical transparency'The balance between collaboration and competition across multiple sectors, especially when it comes to anti-corruption and climate issuesThe emergence of 'Chief Integrity Officers' and the importance of balancing ethics with compliance to avoid corporate scandalsHis advice for a new Chief Integrity Officer and how to embed ethics throughout a cultureThe organisations whose example we should try and followA success story from 'Integrity Icon', increasing female representation in regional government in Pakistan His approach to leadership as a collective effort within a flat structureDefining organisational values and how to embed values-led decision makingBlair on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blairglencorse/Accountability Lab: https://accountabilitylab.org/Accountability Lab's annual strategy hip-hop track: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tnjXPevXlu4Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Many of us are conscious of making better choices in life, but what about better choices in death? Our guest today is Sarah Jones, founder of Full Circle Funerals. As well as offering a wide range of funeral options to suit each individual, Sarah commissioned the first piece of independent research into the environmental impact of the funeral industry. She discusses:The impact of moving around a lot as a child, never spending longer than 2 years at any schoolThe influence of her Dad on her radical natureHer path to funeral directing through vascular surgery and social careThe importance of looking after both the person that has died and their family when it comes to funeral careThe therapeutic potential of a funeral Her rejection of a 'one-size-fits-all' approach to funeral careHow she crowdsourced funding from the industry to commission the first independent research into the environmental impact of our funerals The most and least eco-friendly funerals you can haveThe lack of regulation in the funeral industryHow to make cremation (which accounts for more than 70% of body disposal in the UK) more sustainableHer thoughts on whether we are 'good at dying' in the UKHer vision of 'death literacy' and how we could talk about death, dying and bereavement more openly How to understand grief better and show up for people experiencing it Sarah on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-jones-fullcirclefunerals/fullcirclefunerals.co.ukRob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected] Visit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

You've probably heard of Patagonia. Their products adorn outdoor enthusiasts and conscious clothes buyers across the world. Often held up as THE responsible business, Patagonia champion progressive causes and activism across the world. Most radically, in September 2022, Patagonia's founder Yvon Chouinard, announced that he was transferring ownership of the company into a trust which would use profits to tackle the climate crisis. Alex Beasley, General Manager UK, Ireland and Nordics, joins us for this conversation. He discusses:How 'saying no' to his father was a big moment in his early lifeThe huge value of going to university beyond the subject you studyHow he still considers himself 'an engineer' after studying Civil Engineering, despite not working in that industryHow Patagonia unlocked his 'little bit radical' natureWhy he doesn't like job titlesThe importance of collaboration, listening, and amplifying each other's strengths to solve big challengesThe history of Patagonia, its mission: 'In business to save our home planet'The 'For profit, not-for-profit model'The 1% for the Planet programme and the details of how Patagonia fund hundreds of small impact projects every yearThe story of how Patagonia's energy in the UK came to be produced entirely on the roof of Streatham Tube Station in LondonHow Patagonia encourages Autonomy on both an individual and business levelHow the culture of Patagonia is implemented across the globeHow Patagonia can be put on a pedestal, and how they want to 'knock the pedestal away'The importance of curiosity to be successful Patagonia's founder Yvon Chouinard, his manifesto for work culture 'Let My People Go Surfing', and his decision to give away his business for the benefit of the planetThe moment Yvon announced this decision to the company, and where Alex was...Patagonia's vision of a circular economy and the decisions they make to champion thatThe huge campaign Patagonia supported to protect the River Vjosa from 260 dams and keep it as the last remaining free flowing river in EuropeHow he feels our economic paradigm needs to change - you can't have infinite growth on a finite planetHis criticism of the word 'consumer' and 'consumerism'Alex on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-beasley-60bb2723/Visit: patagonia.comRob on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

One + All make children's school uniforms, brilliant quality ones too. When you dig beneath the surface at One + All though, you'll find a seemingly never ending list of 'little bit radical' changes and initiatives. 100% employee owned, certified B Corp, pay differential limits, certified carbon neutral...the list goes on and on. It wasn't always like this though, the man that sent One + All on its journey to being a more radical business is Donald Moore. In this conversation he discusses:How he's proud of 'not being very bright' as it has led him to keep things simple in businessHis distaste for traditional economics and business schoolsHow he's always viewed getting fired as inevitable The moment in the wake of the 2008 financial crash triggered a complete shift in company strategy towards a people-centred approachHow the shift increased profits five fold as well as customer and colleague satisfactionEmployee ownership and how it worksHow to prevent your business from ever being sold against your wishesHis campaigns against 'fat cats' and executive payHow they approach 'reward' at One + All, giving proportionally more benefits to the lowest paidHow supporting their team with financial wellbeing set them up to cope with the cost of living crisisHis campaigning on poverty and how misunderstood the issue is, including by B Corp companiesThe reality of poverty in the UK today, from children pretending to eat at school, to the surprise items that are the most shopliftedHow all employers should pay the real living wage, but also take an active interest in what their lowest paid are dealing with on a daily basisHow he hates the term 'HR'Donald on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-moore-26235521/One + All: https://oneandall.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

We love snacks! Especially in the UK, where 97% of us snack at least once a day. Over half of us snack 5 times a day! On a mission to transform the way we snack in public spaces and workplaces, Healthy Nibbles was founded by Sara Roberts, our guest today. A fiercely impressive entrepreneur and leader, she discusses:How her early life was full of radical moments, including moving to New Zealand as a child and a tragic bullying incident which disrupted her school yearsHow she dealt with frustration and resentment in her early yearsHow she went slightly off the rails and stopped clubbing by the time most people were starting…Learning to have empathy for her bully, and leading with empathy as an adult Building a truly diverse team around values Her husband of 30 years and business partner of 20How the idea for Healthy Nibbles came to her in a hospital ward whilst her father was receiving cancer treatment The unique customer experience of buying and eating a healthy snack at a Healthy Nibbles site The exciting features of a Healthy Nibbles machineThe holistic approach to eating well at work and the need for more educationThe ‘Wellbeing Windfall’ for employers that prioritise their team sleeping well and eating wellHow to save £2,000 per annum per employee through healthy snacking How to achieve ‘High Performance’ with ‘High Safety’ Health and wellbeing as a strategic imperative Her tips for moving forward with a programme of well-being and avoiding a ‘tick box’ exercise Sara on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraeroberts/Visit: https://www.healthynibbles.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

One of the biggest emitters in our world is the internet. In this episode we speak to Richard Kenny, MD of Interact. Interact are a real David in a world of Goliaths, developing some of the most innovative approaches to reducing the energy consumption of the world's data centres. They recently beat Microsoft to the award for Energy Impact at the Data Centre Design awards. Rich is down to earth and full of great stories in this conversation. We discuss:Buying, rebuilding, and selling his first computer aged 9Becoming one of the first professional MMA fighters in the UK and how his experience influenced his later careerThe importance of 'controlling the controllable'His studies and early career in international development and poverty alleviationTechbuyer's ethos around refurbishment and the circular economyTheir breakthrough in disproving Moore's law - that computer chips do not double in performance and efficiency every two yearsThe data centre industry's blind spot for their own hardware and the efficiencies that can be created by optimising and reconfiguringHow the streaming of music hit 'Despacito' used the same energy as 4 African nationsWhether you should consume data on 4g, 3g, WiFi, and how many photos you should be takingHis optimism for the future driven by innovative technologyHis love of his home county of Yorkshire and the burgeoning tech sector that's growing thereHis wish for political change through getting more diverse people into powerHow the most important jobs are not remunerated as such in his viewFollow Rich on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-kenny-6b46a250/www.techbuyer.comRob on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

In the mid-80s, Guy Singh-Watson left his cushty job as a management consultant to return to his roots (quite literally) as a he ploughed a few acres of his parents' farm and started growing organic vegetables. Over the 30 years since, Riverford Organic Farms has grown to become the most recognisable name in organic produce in the UK, turning over £100m + per year. The list of 'little bit radical' aspects to Guy and Riverford is extensive, from pioneering 'direct-to-consumer' veg boxes in the 90s, to becoming an employee owned business, to being a proud B Corp. A famously self-assured and opinionated figure, Guy doesn't hold back in this interview where he covers:How his childhood on a farm encouraged him to think creatively, practically, and entrepreneuriallyHis parents' radical ideas on farming and the world which influenced himHis very unusual 8th birthday presentHow he continues to become more radical as he gets older and is determined to challenge what he sees as terrible governanceHis views on Boris Johnson, Jacob Rees-Mogg and the Conservative governmentFrom milking cows, to opening the New York office of a Management Consultancy within a year of graduatingThe early days of RiverfordHis hideous experience selling to supermarkets andThe 'freaks from the fringes' who inspired him to switch to a direct-to-consumer modelThe community-led marketing approach which grew the business in the early daysHis dislike of the word 'professional' and how he reveres 'competence' How capitalism needs to be regulated and his admiration for the B Corp movementHow the 'customer is not always right'Riverford's environmental policies and his frustration with over-focus on plasticsThe importance of fully understanding how your product fits into your customers' livesEmployee ownership and his motivations for handing over ownership of Riverford to its employeesWhether every business could be employee-ownedHis desire for a political shift to re-distribute wealth to those who need it mostOur need to reclaim the sense patriotism and collectivism that founded the NHS and the welfare stateKeep up with Guy's latest blogs on 'Wicked Leaks' https://wickedleeks.riverford.co.uk/author/guy-singh-watson/Visit the Riverford website: https://organic.riverford.co.uk/Rob on linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-warren/Want to appear? Email: [email protected]: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠

Thank you so much to everyone who has listened to 'A Little Bit Radical' so far, we're frankly overwhelmed with how well it's going! We have more of the good stuff in season 2 with more big names in business who do things differently. Including:Guy Singh-Watson - RiverfordAlex Beasley- PatagoniaKatie Wilson - Octopus EVsWai Foong Ng - MatchableDonald More - One + AllSara Roberts - Healthy NibblesRich Kenny - Techbuyer and InteractAnd many many more!Visit: ⁠standingongiants.com⁠