Business Without BS

EP — Lucy Parker explains why sustainability only works when leaders stop hiding in the castle and start engaging with the real world.Lucy Parker argues that the real challenge in sustainability is leadership behaviour: large companies still operate as if they can stay behind the walls, even though stakeholders now expect open engagement and socially relevant decisions.The conversation covers ESG’s collapse, system‑level change, supply‑chain realities, political headwinds, and how SMEs can act when resources are tight. The focus is practical: decision points leaders face, how to prioritise material issues, and why recalibration is normal rather than failure.What You'll Learn in This Episode:• Decide which sustainability issues actually fall within your remit• Shift from corporate‑centric thinking to socially relevant leadership• Work with competitors without breaching competition rules• Recalibrate sustainability targets without losing direction• Spot where system‑level change is possible in your sectorThis episode is for UK business owners who want clarity on sustainability without noise or posturing.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:0:00 Sustainability without BS begins01:00 Tom’s intro and why leadership matters02:20 Lucy’s role and the social value of business04:40 What leaders still haven’t caught up with07:00 Corporate‑centric vs socially relevant09:40 Who owns responsibility for global problems?12:20 Is ESG dead?16:00 Data, measurement and unbundling ESG20:20 The ESG backlash and political noise25:40 Net zero, realism and recalibration32:10 Supply chains, plastic and system constraints38:40 Consumers, behaviour and plastic reality44:00 Regulation, CSRD and where responsibility sits50:40 System change and pre‑competitive collaboration57:00 Leadership, conviction and next‑gen expectations1:10:00 What SMEs can actually do this weekWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedInTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

Mark argues most SMEs fail at marketing because they misunderstand the customer, the market and the value they actually provide.About this episodeMark Palmer dismantles the modern marketing fog: founders often make stronger marketers than the marketers they hire, most values pages are fiction, and copying competitors is a reliable way to shrink margins.He argues marketing’s core job has not changed: understand the customer, understand the market, then build something worth buying.The conversation covers value propositions, brand positioning, why digital natives miss the bigger picture, how to hire a marketer, where partnerships create real leverage, and why some brands mutate beyond recognition. Practical, direct and grounded in real examples.About the guestMark Palmer is a brand consultant and best-selling author of The Work Smarter Guide to Marketing. He runs Maverick Planet, advising global brands and high-growth UK businesses on positioning and growth. He has shaped brands for Google, Vodafone, Lego, English Cricket and more.Key moments00:00 - Why Facebook profits from scam adverts00:54 - How marketing became fragmented and misunderstood03:55 - How to tell if someone actually understands marketing05:10 - Why founders often outperform hired marketers07:56 - The Unilever brand key and nine-question process09:59 - How Grey Goose changed the vodka market14:45 - Guinness Zero and the rise of low-alcohol positioning16:58 - Why company values drift and lose meaning19:01 - How large platforms get away with poor service22:57 - What startups must prove to investors27:26 - Why most marketers confuse tactics for strategy34:41 - The power and risk of brand partnerships44:53 - Five practical rules every founder should followMentioned in this episodeAirbnb - Example of redefining a market rather than competing narrowlyAperol Spritz - Used to explain category expansion and cultural trendsApple - Case study in consistent positioning and product-led brand buildingBBC - Referenced in discussion on value drift and public trustBen Grubbs - Ex-YouTube leader investing in creator-driven brandsBMW - Example of brand stretch, mutation and positioning disciplineBoeing - Used to illustrate gaps between stated values and behaviourBurberry - Case study on repositioning and over-extensionChannel 4 Paralympics - Example of exceptional brand-buildingDiageo - Later purchaser of Grey GooseGood Good Golf - Creator-led brand built from YouTubeGrey Goose - Demonstrates market reframing and super-premium creationGuinness / Guinness Zero - Example of using consumer trends to repositionHermes / Evri - Renaming after reputation issuesLego - Example of brand stretch from toys to entertainmentLondon Business School - Where Mark teaches foundersMac vs PC campaign - Classic Apple positioning exampleMeta / Facebook / Instagram - Discussion on fraud, values and regulationNatWest - Used to highlight poor customer experienceOpenAI - Values drift examplePimm’s - Seasonal brand trapped by narrow positioningQuickBooks - Clear value proposition caseSerious Fraud Office - Referenced in discussion on corruption patternsSmirnoff / Absolut - Vodka category comparisonsThames Water - Monopoly behaviour and brand issuesTicketmaster - Friction and reputation exampleVirgin Media - Values vs behaviour mismatchFind the guestLinkedIn: Website:Follow Business Without BSWebsite: https://withoutbs.com YouTube: https://youtube.com/@bwblondon Instagram: https://instagram.com/bwblondon X / Twitter: https://x.com/bwb_london LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-without-bs Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/business-without-bs/id1528844106 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6J1YMncmYCLODOKi8A0CFU🎧 Business Without BS - straight talk from people who've actually built things.

Oury Clark partners lay out how new UK property rules reshape renting, leaseholds and development in 2026 and beyond.### About this episodeThree major UK property reforms land at once — renters’ rights, leasehold reform and commonhold — and Jemma and Michael from Oury Clark explain why these shifts change timelines, cashflow and asset planning for founders far more than headlines suggest. The tension: clearer protections for tenants and leaseholders versus increased friction and uncertainty for landlords and developers.They walk through how notice periods, court delays, marriage value abolition, 990‑year extensions, business rates and proposed rent review bans really operate in practice. Founders get a practical read on what to plan, what to expect and what to avoid.### About the guestJemma Hotter and Michael La Fuente are partners at Oury Clark, advising UK and international businesses on property, commercial and regulatory matters. They specialise in translating complex UK real estate rules into practical decisions for founders, investors and operators.### Key moments- [00:00] — Why three reforms hit the UK property system at once.- [02:53] — How renters’ reform redistributes power between landlords and tenants.- [07:00] — Why four‑month notices and court delays reshape landlord cashflow.- [09:57] — New restrictions on discrimination, deposits and bidding wars.- [14:50] — Why yearly rent reviews may trigger annual increases, not stability.- [18:04] — Leasehold explained: value, mortgages and the 80‑year cliff.- [27:00] — How 990‑year extensions and scrapping marriage value change pricing.- [36:05] — Ground rent caps and who loses out when premiums disappear.- [43:01] — Commonhold: how it works, why it never took off and what changes next.- [52:00] — Business rates overhaul and what multipliers actually mean.- [59:02] — Commercial rent reviews and the push to end upwards‑only clauses.- [01:05:43] — Winners, losers and the unintended effects across the market.### Mentioned in this episode- **Doomsday Book** — Historical reference when discussing 999‑year terms.- **Metro / Evening Standard** — Examples of media reporting on rental pressures.- **Valuation Office Agency** — Body calculating rateable values.### Find the guestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/oury-clark### Follow Business Without BSWebsite: https://withoutbs.comYouTube: https://youtube.com/@bwblondonInstagram: https://instagram.com/bwblondonX / Twitter: https://x.com/bwb_londonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-without-bsApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/business-without-bs/id1528844106Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6J1YMncmYCLODOKi8A0CFU🎧 Business Without BS — straight talk from people who've actually built things.

Dave Birss says you won't be replaced by AI - you'll be replaced by a leader who's been told the wrong story about it.About this episodeDave Birss is back on Business Without BS - author of the Sensible AI Manifesto, co-founder of the Gen AI Academy, and a man who's taught a million-and-a-half people how to use AI without setting their business on fire. He walks Andy and Andrew through what he calls a "corporate poopocalypse" — what happens when you apply AI to a business that hasn't cleaned up its own mess.The episode covers the Sensible AI Manifesto's six points, the CREATE prompting framework, the three Cs for checking AI output, the adequacy trap, why judgment is the most undervalued skill of the next decade, and the practical playbook for rolling out AI across a team without sending the whole organisation into a panic.About the guestDave Birss co-founded the Gen AI Academy with Helena, where they run AI training across governments, the UN, and Fortune 500 companies. He wrote the Sensible AI Manifesto and GPT Junior, the kids' AI book and video course now in over 100 schools. Before all that he spent his career in advertising and creativity, which is where most of his frameworks come from.Key moments[02:46] The Roomba poopocalypse - why AI applied to a dysfunctional business spreads the mess, not the productivity.[05:46] Corporate barnacles - the institutional plaque costing every business 40% in fuel and speed.[08:04] Sensible AI Manifesto Point 1: use AI to augment skills, not to outsource tasks.[09:15] The two-list exercise: tasks that piss you off vs tasks you wish you could do more of. Only the second list is the real opportunity.[12:11] AI slap - 96% of leaders think AI raises productivity, 77% of staff feel buried by unrealistic expectations.[13:48] The adequacy trap - why AI users get stuck at "good enough" and never break through.[22:51] The other five Manifesto points: use data responsibly, support employees, assign AI leaders, keep learning, always add a human layer.[26:40] The CREATE prompting framework — Character, Request, Examples, Adjustments, Type, Extras.[37:59] The three Cs for checking AI output: Confirm, Check, Craft. Why most people skip the third one.[55:14] How business owners keep their thinking sharp: do the work on paper before you open the laptop.[1:01:03] What humans still beat AI at - conceptualisation, creative voice, and judgment. The judgment one matters most.[1:14:17] The line that pisses Dave off: "you won't be replaced by AI, you'll be replaced by someone using AI." His correction is sharper.[1:18:09] The three-stage AI value pyramid — cost cutting → skill amplification → unlocking what wasn't possible before. 80% of companies are stuck on stage one.[1:24:18] How to roll out AI across a team in an afternoon: align with business strategy, declare an AI amnesty, pave the desire lines.Mentioned in this episodeSensible AI Manifesto — Dave's six-point framework for applying AI without breaking your business. Currently being turned into a book.Gen AI Academy - the training company Dave co-founded with Helena, working with governments, the UN and Fortune 500s.GPT Junior - Dave's book and video course teaching kids how to use AI properly, currently in over 100 schools.Perplexity - Dave's preferred AI tool for fact-checking because it gives you the sources.Cal Newport - referenced for the long-form-reading argument and the case that children reading for pleasure is the strongest predictor of life outcomes.Range (David Epstein) - the case for generalists over hyper-specialists; Dave says the book describes him.Yann LeCun - recently left Meta over the limits of next-token prediction; arguing AI needs world models, not just language.Roomba poopocalypse - the family-and-the-dog metaphor that opens the episode and frames the whole thing.Marc Andreessen / lump of labour fallacy — the framing for why we systematically underestimate the new jobs that emerge from disruption.RAF desire lines - the Nissan-hut path-paving story; Dave's metaphor for letting staff show you how AI is already being used.Combinedly - the AI tool Andrew's firm is testing for client-sentiment analysis and email drafting.Find the guestLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davebirss/ Gen AI Academy: https://thegenaiacademy.com/Follow Business Without BSWebsite: https://withoutbs.comYouTube: https://youtube.com/@bwblondonInstagram: https://instagram.com/bwblondonX / Twitter: https://x.com/bwb_londonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-without-bs🎧 Business Without BS — straight talk from people who've actually built things.

Matt Hunt built a 300-million-ball business without a co-packer and without betting on supermarket shelves to do the work for him.About this episodeMatt Hunt is 11 years into building The Protein Ball Company — 300 million balls sold, 14 export markets, 60,000 bags leaving Worthing every day. He's done it by manufacturing himself, hedging with private label and export, and — after Covid wiped out 80% of the business — rebuilding from the bottom up through gyms and coffee shops before going back to supermarkets.Andy gets Matt into the detail: why private label is a hedge not a compromise, what a category buyer actually charges you for shelf space, and the graveyard exercise that Leeds agency Robot Foods ran to strip his branding down to "Ballsy by nature."About the guestMatt Hunt co-founded The Protein Ball Company with his wife Hayley in 2014. He also built OLUVS — the first olives-in-a-bag brand, sold live on QVC and supplied into airline catering with Ryanair, easyJet, Delta and United — and The Great British Porridge Company, which went on Dragon's Den, got offers from all five Dragons, and walked away on contractual terms. He specialises in scaling natural-ingredient food brands without handing control to a co-packer.Key moments[02:46] The single decision that built a 300-million-ball business: manufacture it yourself, don't hand it to a co-packer.[07:04] "No one cares as much as you do" — why outsourcing production leaves your quality in someone else's hands.[14:08] Cash flow is king. Money on the water, 90-day US terms, and why a million in receivables can still put payroll at risk.[24:12] Building from the bottom up — gyms, coffee shops, office blocks (Cafe Nero, Nuffield, HSBC) before Tesco.[27:10] How a category manager kills a challenger brand — the Organic Meltdown vs Lindt story at Waitrose.[36:09] What a shopper decides in two seconds — colour, font, tone, not ingredient claims — and why the agency forced Matt to strip the front of pack.[37:00] The graveyard exercise — Robot Foods' pre-mortem where Matt had to write his brand's obituary, list what killed it, and work backwards to stop it dying.[39:55] Where "Ballsy by nature" came from — anger at the protein-bar category and pride in sourcing the best.[52:34] When to say no to a private-label deal: conflict of interest, bad margin, or it dilutes your own brand. Why it's still 50% of the business.[58:00] Plan A, Plan B, Plan C — why every ingredient now needs three sources, and olives are up 45% in a year.[1:14:00] First-hire advice: keep your day job until the side hustle overtakes it. Hiring an office and staff too early is how you kill the thing.Mentioned in this episodeRobot Foods — Leeds branding agency behind the "Ballsy by nature" rebrand and the graveyard exercise (a pre-mortem: imagine your brand has died, write its obituary, work out what killed it).OLUVS — Matt's earlier brand. First olives-in-a-bag. Supplied into airline catering with Delta, United, Ryanair, easyJet.The Great British Porridge Company — Matt's third brand. Went on Dragon's Den, got offers from all five Dragons, walked away on contractual terms.QVC — where OLUVS sold live; older demographic, urgency-driven, better than people admit.Whole Foods Market — US stockist, 600 stores, private-label arrangement.Cafe Nero, Flying Coffee Bean, Black Sheep Coffee, Nuffield, Virgin Active — the bottom-up placement strategy.Pets Corner — 150-store launch partner for the dog-treat line.Joe Wicks' "Killer Bar" — parody protein bar exposing category additives; tailwind for natural brands like Matt's.Perfect Ted, Trip Drinks — examples of brands that hit the shelf running with the right backing.Stephen Bartlett — cited as the right-person-in-the-right-place factor behind Perfect Ted's scale.Mr Beast — influencer chocolate bar, discussed as a cautionary tale on quality.GLP-1 / Ozempic — why bite-sized dense-nutrition snacks are a growing category.Find the guestLinkedIn: [paste Matt Hunt's LinkedIn URL here — not stored in the Episodes sheet yet] The Protein Ball Company: https://theproteinballco.comFollow Business Without BSWebsite: https://withoutbs.comYouTube: https://youtube.com/@bwblondonInstagram: https://instagram.com/bwblondonX / Twitter: https://x.com/bwb_londonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/business-without-bsApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/business-without-bsSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/business-without-bs🎧 Business Without BS — straight talk from people who've actually built things.

EP 416 - What if your biggest business risk isn’t the market .. but your own assumptions?Former RAF Wing Commander Marcus Dimbleby reveals how leaders can use red teaming, applied critical thinking and pre-mortems to dramatically increase strategy success rates.We cover:Why most business plans failThe hidden danger of unchecked assumptionsHow to run a red team session (even in a small company)The “pre-mortem” technique that exposes fatal flawsHow to build real psychological safetyIf you lead a team, run strategy or make high-stakes decisions — this episode will change how you think.Follow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 415 with guest co-host Andrew Craig.Fundraising isn’t a numbers game, it’s a targeting problem.In this episode, Shipshape VC founder Daniel Sawko explains why startups waste hundreds of hours pitching the wrong investors, how “zombie funds” distort the market, and why blasting your deck to 10,000 investors destroys focus.We unpack information asymmetry, interest rate impacts, UK vs US capital markets, and how founders should actually build investor relationships.If you're raising seed, Series A or beyond, this is your real-world fundraising masterclass.Key themes:Startup fundraising strategyVenture capitalRaising seed fundingHow to raise money for startupVC mistakesUK startup funding crisis, investor targetingFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 414 - Dodge Woodall reveals how he mortgaged his family home during the 2008 financial crisis to launch what became the 30,000-person Bournemouth 7s Festival.From growing up above a pub to building and scaling multiple businesses, this is a raw masterclass in risk-taking, resilience, and real entrepreneurship.We cover:• Why entrepreneurship is an extreme sport• Risk addiction and betting everything• Scaling a festival brand without investment• Why most people shouldn’t start a business• The power of phone calls over emailsIf you’re serious about business, leadership, or starting up - this episode is essential viewing.Follow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 413 - The UK’s new Employment Rights Act is being framed as a major step forward for workers.But what happens when stronger protections collide with the realities of hiring, risk, and running a business?In this episode, we sit down with leading employment lawyers to unpack the biggest changes: from the reduction in unfair dismissal thresholds to new restrictions on “fire and rehire,” and longer tribunal timelines.For large corporations, these shifts may be manageable.For SMEs - which create the majority of UK jobs - the implications could be far more significant.We explore the unintended consequences of well-meaning policy:Will businesses become more cautious about hiring?Does reducing flexibility increase risk?And could this ultimately impact job creation?This is a grounded, practical conversation about how employment law works in the real world and what both employers and employees need to understand as the rules change.Chapters:00:00 New Rights - Big Risks01:51 Meet Oury Clark's Employment Law Experts02:07 Is It Good or Bad03:15 Why This Act Exists04:45 Top Changes Overview05:03 Unfair Dismissal Cut06:17 Tribunal Deadlines Extended07:20 Sexual Harassment Duties08:40 Fire and Rehire Ban10:48 Redundancy Rules Tighten12:21 Fair Work Agency Powers13:23 April Changes Rundown14:50 Unfair Dismissal Deep Dive17:36 Hiring Gets Harder19:44 Contracting and EOR Rise28:34 Tribunals Backlog and ACAS32:03 AI Fuels More Claims36:59 Compensation Cap Removed42:09 Any Upsides to Reform44:25 Fire and Rehire Explained45:12 Fire and Rehire Basics46:04 Five Fair Dismissal Reasons46:57 SOSR and Business Change50:38 New Rules and Restricted Variations53:23 Tribunals and Enforcement Delays54:42 Performance Management Reality56:47 Protected Conversations Explained01:01:21 SSP Changes and Sickness Absence01:05:20 Occupational Health and Return Plans01:07:57 Sexual Harassment Duties Expand01:14:51 Practical Steps Before April01:19:14 Growth Concerns and Global Competition01:24:29 Myths Rapid Fire01:25:45 Final Thanks and Sign OffFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 412 - How far should UK employers go when it comes to looking after staff?In this episode we break down the real cost of being a “nice” employer - from UK statutory sick pay (SSP) and full sick pay policies to employee benefits, pensions, flexible working, and permanent health insurance (PHI).With major UK employment law changes coming, SMEs face difficult trade-offs:Is full sick pay worth the payroll cost?Does unlimited holiday actually work?Can generous benefits create legal risk?Are employers responsible for employees’ long-term wellbeing?Featuring insights from Oury Clark's employment lawyer Jessica Bass and financial adviser Freddie Pattenden, this episode is a practical guide for SME founders, directors, and HR leaders navigating sick leave, compliance, retention, and post-COVID workplace expectations.If you run a UK business and want to balance competitiveness, fairness, and sustainability - this one’s for you.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Caring Without Going Broke00:57 Meet the Experts01:27 What Staff Really Want03:38 Compliance Value Competition05:28 PHI Income Protection Debate11:22 Post Covid Flex and Mental Health15:36 Legal Minimums Sick Pay Changes21:54 Morality Consistency and Flex26:15 Being Nice Can Backfire29:10 Structuring Benefits and Contracts32:09 Unlimited Holiday Pitfalls32:51 Unlimited holiday pitfalls34:50 Perks arms race37:07 SMEs vs big firms38:35 Pension basics explained39:43 Qualifying earnings trap42:41 Pensions and retention47:17 Salary sacrifice demystified54:43 Self employed pension gap55:06 Death in service cover57:15 Private healthcare reality59:19 Tailoring PMI benefits01:03:00 Managing premium increases01:04:43 Virtual GP and AI support01:06:16 Avoiding Benefit Red Herrings01:08:14 Flexible Benefits Allowance01:11:20 Renewals and Underwriting Traps01:13:47 Flexible Working Rights01:15:33 Office Returns and Discrimination01:19:49 Mental Health Boundaries01:21:46 Best Benefits and Compliance01:27:10 Business or BS Quiz01:27:55 Maternity and Paternity Debate01:34:28 Wellbeing Apps and Final WrapWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 411 - Most families don’t just feel grief when someone dies - they feel anger.Anger about the mess, the debt, the confusion, and the things nobody sorted out.In this episode of Business Without BS, we have the conversation most people avoid - but absolutely shouldn’t.We talk about what actually happens if you die without a plan, why love isn’t flowers and chocolates, and how a few uncomfortable decisions can completely change your family’s future.This isn’t about being wealthy. It’s about being responsible.We cover:What happens if you die without a will (and why modern families are hit hardest)Why unmarried partners are often left with nothingLife insurance: what it really does, how cheap it can be, and when it matters mostPowers of attorney and the nightmare families face without themBusiness owners, shares, and the chaos nobody plans forWhy “I didn’t get round to it” is one of the worst legacies you can leaveThis conversation is uncomfortable, but it might be the most loving thing you ever do for the people you care about.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 The Importance of Wills and Life Insurance01:14 The Consequences of Not Planning Ahead02:05 Meet the Experts: Financial and Legal Advisors02:37 Understanding Wills and Intestacy Rules09:49 The Importance of Communication and Regular Updates12:34 Life Insurance: Protecting Your Loved Ones22:29 Power of Attorney: Ensuring Your Wishes Are Honored37:47 Understanding Income Protection39:16 The Importance of Life Insurance39:53 Building Financial Security41:17 Starting the Conversation on Wills44:21 Choosing the Right Executor47:01 Navigating Probate and Inheritance Tax51:47 Managing Digital Assets01:06:08 Final Thoughts on Financial PlanningWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 410 - Tax Without BS returns with a fiery but surprisingly hopeful breakdown of the November 2025 UK Budget. Andy, Jemma and Emma from Oury Clark sift the good, the bad, and the “are-you-kidding-me?” of Britain’s latest fiscal planFrom scale-up salvation and EIS boosts, to SME heartbreak, Mansion Tax grumbles, pension puzzles, and the four-year foreign-income free-for-all.It’s the only budget reaction that’ll make you laugh and rethink your life insurance.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Andy's Episode Synposis02:29 Business Tax Positives05:37 Funding Gaps and EIS14:18 Business Rates and SME Challenges18:16 Inheritance Tax and Business Property Relief23:58 Impact on SMEs and Entrepreneurs33:12 Understanding Business Rates34:04 Personal Taxes Overview34:16 Employee Ownership Trusts Explained37:54 Income Tax Threshold Freeze38:55 Salary Sacrifice and ISA Changes40:08 Financial Literacy and Investment Advice43:44 Mansion Tax and Property Levies48:42 Tax Avoidance vs. Tax Evasion55:48 Foreign Income and Gains Regime01:00:32 Final Thoughts and Budget ReflectionsWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebook

EP 409 - What happens when you strip away phones, comfort and pretence? Therapist Jerry Hyde - often called “the most dangerous therapist in the world” - and filmmaker Mai Hua explore the raw truths of mental health, vulnerability and masculinity.Released for World Mental Health Day, the conversation dives into why modern life keeps us disconnected, how radical retreats (no phones, no showers, no distractions) transform people, and why real healing means breaking the rules.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Jerry Hyde is called “the most dangerous therapist”How radical retreats challenge comfort, technology and egoThe link between phones, distraction and mental health declineWhy vulnerability is strength in therapy and relationshipsHow group therapy transforms masculinity and human connectionIf you’re interested in mental health awareness, therapy, and breaking free from modern distractions, this episode offers unfiltered insights and challenges conventional thinking.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Jerry Hyde and Mai Hua00:40 Introducing Jerry and Mai01:52 Exploring Masculinity and Vulnerability04:03 The Power of Retreats05:44 The Impact of Technology on Mental Health06:27 The Importance of Human Connection08:50 Challenges of Modern Parenting18:53 Understanding ADHD and Trauma32:24 Gender Dynamics and Therapy45:25 Therapy as a Lifestyle Choice45:52 Challenges of Couples Therapy47:02 The Art of Self-Inquiry47:41 Collaborative Conflicts48:09 Gender Differences in Therapy57:44 Cultural Perspectives on Therapy01:03:02 Making a Man: The Documentary01:05:42 The Importance of Vulnerability01:23:12 Therapy and Group Dynamics01:25:17 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 408 - What happens when British charm collides with German order in the workplace?In part 4 of our Business Without Baggage series, we speak to professor and senior partner at GTK Germany - Manfred Klein - who breaks down the surprising differences - and hidden similarities - between the UK and Germany’s business cultures.From awkward handshakes and endless small talk to rigid agendas and direct feedback, discover why British and German colleagues often clash in meetings, negotiations and everyday work.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why German efficiency and precision frustrates British colleaguesHow British politeness and vagueness confuses German teamsThe truth about work - life boundaries in Germany vs the UKWhy Germans trust process while Brits trust personalityHow cultural differences can make or break international business dealsIf you’re doing business with Germany, managing international teams, or just curious about cross-cultural communication, this conversation is packed with real-world insights and a few laughs.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Business Without Baggage part 3 - Germany00:43 Meet Manfred - A Legal Heavyweight01:16 The Importance of Formality and Punctuality02:20 Setting and Following an Agenda04:53 Work-Life Boundaries in Germany17:05 Direct Communication and Feedback29:14 The Role of Hierarchy and Family Businesses39:25 Social Security and Employee Expectations40:54 Understanding German Employee Benefits41:25 Work-Life Balance in Germany42:05 Challenges in the German Health and Pension Systems42:54 Maternity and Parental Leave Policies44:01 Declining Birth Rates and Social Security46:26 Immigration and Cultural Integration48:05 German Cultural Traits and Business Etiquette49:15 Economic Challenges and Quantitative Easing50:25 Direct Communication and Efficiency in Germany57:00 Business Collaboration Between Germany and UK59:16 Ease of Doing Business in Germany01:09:00 Common Mistakes When Doing Business in Germany01:11:03 Visa and Property Ownership in Germany01:13:50 Andy Wears German Carnival Outfit01:15:19 Business or Bullshit quiz!01:18:04 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 407 - What does it really take to build a food empire from scratch? We're giving our chat with John B Stapleton - serial entrepreneur, investor, and co-founder of the New Covent Garden Soup Company and Little Dish a re-run to remind us about the hard-won lessons behind his multi-million-pound successes.From inventing the UK’s fresh soup category to mentoring today’s challenger brands, John shares his insights on:Why resilience beats a “genius idea” every timeHow to raise investment when the market is stacked against youThe truth about failure - and why it’s the best teacher for entrepreneursBootstrapping until you “know what you’re doing”The entrepreneurial ego: small “e” vs big “E”Whether you’re launching your first startup or scaling towards exit, this episode is packed with real-world advice on how entrepreneurs really win - and why sometimes failure is the very thing that sets you up for millions.Perfect for founders, investors, and anyone navigating today’s uncertain business landscape.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with John Stapleton 00:40 John's Background and Achievements01:19 Current Business Climate and Challenges04:22 Investment Strategies and Advice12:45 Mentoring and Advising Startups14:25 Mission Ventures and Investment Platforms18:17 Entrepreneurial Traits and Success24:43 The Birth of Lamborghini25:22 The Cult of Entrepreneurial Personality26:29 The Value of Failure28:51 Consumer Insight and Resilience30:05 The Fresh Soup Revolution34:21 Quickfire - Get To Know John41:26 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 406 - Economist and tax strategist Oriana Morrison pulls doesn't hold back in our chat about the UK economy, HMRC, tax avoidance, and inequality.Founder and CEO of ECNMX and trusted advisor to world champion athletes and entertainers, Oriana Morrison explains why HMRC is “shameful,” how tax is used as social engineering, and why Britain risks losing its top talent to fairer systems abroad.From the realities of sportswashing in Saudi boxing to the politics of envy driving the UK’s broken tax system, Oriana shares blunt insights you won’t hear from politicians, even or accountants.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why Oriana Morrison calls HMRC “shameful”The hidden truth about tax, fairness and inequalityHow sportswashing in Saudi boxing really worksWhy Britain risks a Latin American-style economic collapseHow tax myths are driving talent and wealth out of the UKIf you want to hear about the future of Britain’s economy, the truth about tax and HMRC, and what it really means for athletes, creatives, and entrepreneurs, pull up a chair and press play.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Oriana Morrison01:30 Sportswashing in Saudi?04:09 Economic Realities of Sports Consumption09:33 Oriana's Role and Expertise14:01 Tax and Economic Policies16:57 HMRC: Challenges and Criticisms 26:50 Global Economic Perspectives42:28 Insider Trading and Ethical Dilemmas42:54 Navigating Client Relationships and Global Networks43:37 Oriana's Story: The Band Fallout46:32 Legal Battles and Partnership Laws53:11 Lessons Learned and Client Challenges59:42 Social Media vs. Tax Advice01:04:48 Quickfire - Get To Know Oriana01:08:49 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!01:17:10 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 405 - Is Italy an entrepreneur’s dream or a business nightmare compared to the UK? In part 3 of our Business Without Baggage series, Andy speaks with corporate lawyer Marco Pistis about the cultural and legal contrasts between doing business in Italy and the UK.From relationship-driven deals to bureaucracy that stifles scale, Marco explains why British companies often struggle in Italy - and what they can learn from its unique, trust-first culture.What you’ll learn:Why relationships and trust matter more than rules in ItalyThe North-South divide: how culture, punctuality, and payments differHow family-run businesses dominate the market - and what that means for outsidersWhy bureaucracy and employee protection laws slow scalingHow UK businesses can avoid costly mistakes when entering ItalyWhere the real opportunities lie: Milan, the mid-market, and creative industriesPerfect for entrepreneurs, investors, and advisors looking to navigate UK - Italy business differences.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Business Without Baggage #3 Italy00:41 Meet Marco Pistis: The Insider's Perspective01:38 The Emotional Approach to Business03:50 Friendship and Business in Italy10:25 The Importance of Punctuality and Flexibility16:10 Hierarchy and Family Businesses23:20 Employee Expectations and Labour Laws26:07 Cultural Cues and Misunderstandings29:15 Cultural Taboos: Money and Religion29:54 Negotiating Business Deals in Italy31:56 The Importance of Food in Italian Business33:34 Challenges and Stereotypes in Italian Business34:34 Setting Up Business in Italy: Banking and Bureaucracy37:50 Tax Benefits and Wealthy Expats in Italy48:36 AI and Cultural Communication49:58 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!50:22 Wrap UpWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 404 - Can improv and humour make you a better leader - and even grow your bottom line? Neil Mullarkey (Comedy Store Players co-founder with Mike Myers, seen on Whose Line Is It Anyway and Austin Powers) shows how improv’s “Yes, And” mindset, listening with intent, and affiliative humour boost leadership, sales, creativity, and team culture.We unpack practical tools Neil teaches at London Business School and in boardrooms across 25+ countries: running better meetings and Zooms, building psychological safety, using Pixar-style “plussing,” navigating change, and why funny people make better leaders.What you’ll learn:How improv drives creativity, collaboration, and faster decisionsThe difference between affiliative vs. dis-affiliative humour (and why banter can backfire)Listening with intent: the leadership meta-skill that wins deals and trustRunning high-energy meetings (in-person & remote): chat prompts, quick polls, and participation hacksWhy “Yes, And” beats rigid scripts for sales, client work, and stakeholder buy-in*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Neil Mullarkey01:20 Neil's Journey in Comedy and Improv05:42 The Birth of Comedy Store Players08:12 Improv Techniques and Their Applications19:13 Improv in Business and Leadership24:05 Effective Meeting Strategies32:31 Innovative Meeting Strategies33:35 The Role of Improv in Leadership36:07 Handling Resistance and Transformation41:45 Humour in the Workplace47:32 Improv Skills for Personal Growth56:27 Quickfire - Get To Know Neil57:54 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!businesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected]

EP 403 - AI is being sold as a miracle productivity tool​, but is it actually killing our ability to think? We revisit our conversation with AI expert, author​ and speaker​ David Birss who explores the hidden dangers of generative AI - from outsourcing imagination to the slow erosion of human originality.We explore the myth of AI productivity​, unpacking why most companies are implementing AI the wrong way, why “adequacy” is replacing excellence, and how the obsession with productivity is leading to burnout rather than breakthroughs. David explains his Sensible AI Manifesto, showing why businesses must use AI to augment skills, not automate talent.From ChatGPT in the workplace to the risk of Gen Z losing brain power, this episode covers the biggest questions around AI:Is generative AI replacing excellence with adequacy?How can AI increase output without destroying originality?What are the real risks of AI for business, education, and society?Could AI be weaponised - and are governments already falling behind?Essential listening​ if you’re searching for the truth about AI in business, creativity, and the future of work. *For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with David Birss00:43 Meet David - AI Expert and Innovator01:41 The Sensible AI Manifesto: Origins and Purpose03:24 AI in Business: Misconceptions and Realities04:16 The Impact of AI on Productivity and Workload10:17 The Future of AI: Risks and Ethical Considerations17:29 AI in Warfare and Global Security25:41 Training and Education: The UK vs. The US34:10 The Importance of Effective AI Prompting37:30 David's Multifaceted Career: Music, Comedy, and AI43:11 Spotting Opportunities in Technology44:03 Embracing AI and Art44:47 Developing Effective AI Prompts46:59 Challenges and Misconceptions in AI49:05 Dealing with Change and Innovation50:55 The Importance of Human Potential59:04 Quickfire - Get To Know David01:07:12 !Business or Bullshit Quiz!businesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 402 - Is the UK stock market dying or is it the biggest bargain in global investing? This week we welcome back investor and author Andrew Craig who argues that British equities are deeply undervalued and overlooked by international investors. From political uncertainty to structural challenges, Craig explains why the UK is seen as “on sale” - and why that could be a once-in-a-generation opportunity. We pack market misperceptions, long-term risks, and where savvy investors should be looking now. Essential listening for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone questioning the future of the UK economy.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Andrew Craig01:29 The Decline of the UK Stock Market06:08 Impact of Passive Investing on the Economy11:07 IPO Market Challenges13:01 The Role of Equity Markets in Innovation and Growth17:31 The Vicious Cycle of Economic Policies22:38 Global Comparisons and UK Economy Future34:45 The Importance of Entrepreneurial Wealth Creation38:03 The Impact of Amazon on Society39:30 The Role of Wealthy Individuals in Society41:33 Government vs. Private Sector Efficiency44:39 The Future of Technology and Innovation50:00 Challenges in the UK Infrastructure and Economy58:54 QUICKFIRE - Get To Know Andrew01:02:22 !BUSINESS or BULLSHIT QUIZ! 01:11:16 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 401 - Recent UK government changes to trust law could have major implications for wealth protection, estate planning, and business ownership. In Tax Without Bullshit pt. 2, Andy sits down with Oury Clark tax experts Jeremy Coker and Emma FlorentinLee to break down what the new rules mean, who they affect, and how to decide if a trust is still worth it. From common myths to practical strategies, this episode explains how trusts work in the UK, why they’re not just for billionaires, and how changing legislation could reshape their future. Essential listening for business owners, financial advisors, and families looking to safeguard assets.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*00:00 Tax Without Bullshit pt.2 - UK Trusts02:49 History of Trusts03:41 Structure of Trusts04:14 Types of Trusts and Their Uses09:03 Tax Implications and Misconceptions21:34 Global Perspectives on Trusts24:51 Trustees and Beneficiaries25:13 The Role of Trusts in UK Tax Residency26:36 Offshore Trusts: Myths and Realities28:53 Excluded Property Trusts Explained31:09 Complexities of Foreign Trusts41:58 Living Trusts and Their Implications45:57 Trusts in Business and Family Planning51:15 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 400 - Is confidence the real reason men succeed more in business - or are women holding themselves back? Entrepreneur and Dragons’ Den success story Rachel Watkyn OBE joins us to share her unfiltered take on gender, ego, and the hidden dynamics behind success. From male “peacocking” and the confidence gap to the barriers facing female founders, she challenges what we think we know about business, identity, and leadership.Rachel opens up about her personal journey through childhood trauma, serious illness, and tackles big cultural questions - from the rise of modern gender ideology to the impact of dating apps, hookup culture, and why loneliness is becoming a silent epidemic among Gen Z.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Rachel Watkyn OBE01:34 Meet Rachel: A Journey of Resilience02:43 Quickfire - Get to Know Rachel05:16 Rachel's New Venture: Tackling Loneliness00:00 The Reality of Loneliness in Modern Society12:44 Personal Stories and Overcoming Adversity17:06 Gender Bias in Venture Capital Funding29:18 Changing Gender Roles and Societal Norms31:42 A Family's Complex History32:16 Unraveling Relationships and Secrets33:33 Impact of Social Shame34:37 Cultural Differences in Expression35:29 A Troubling Incident36:29 Childhood Challenges and Resilience37:03 Managing Stress and Wellbeing39:18 The Importance of Conversations43:18 Navigating Modern Challenges46:36 Business Insights and Advice49:40 Business OR Bullshit Quiz!58:49 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 399 - July's guests - Lucy Parker, Mark Field, Victoria Dunford, and Luis Gosalbez - discuss and debate the legitimacy our BOB quiz cards - drinking at lunch, corporate away days, in-office fitness classes, and universal basic income to equal paternity leave and corporate gifting all make the shortlist!Chapters:00:00 Business or Bullshit QUIZ00:55 Debate: Drinking at Lunch04:49 Corporate Away Days: Business or BB?06:38 In-Office Fitness Classes08:54 Universal Basic Income Discussion12:16 Equal Paternity Leave14:01 Corporate Gifting: Business or BS?businesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 398 - Spain looks like a dream for startups: sunny, affordable, and full of talent. But beneath the surface, founders face a slow, fragmented system that often blocks growth instead of enabling it. In this episode, lawyer, founder and managing partner of Metricson Luis Gosálbez explains why Spain’s business environment frustrates entrepreneurs, from endless bureaucracy to region-by-region politics and a risk-averse culture that kills momentum. Whether you're launching in Spain or expanding into Europe, this is what they don’t teach you in school - but should.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Business Without Baggage #2 - Spain's Hidden Business Rules00:19 Meet Luis Gosalbez01:36 Regional Differences in Spanish Business Culture08:15 Business Etiquette and Payment Practices09:25 Family-Owned Businesses and Hierarchies11:15 Impact of Historical and Political Context13:48 Collaborative vs. Individualistic Business Approaches16:35 Challenges of Employment Laws20:51 The Importance of Personal Connections29:21 Cultural Taboos: Money and Religion30:00 The British Perspective on Money32:51 Building Spanish Business Relationships34:21 Navigating Bureaucracy in Spain37:20 Banking and Financial Regulations43:45 Living and Working in Spain44:54 Special Tax Laws and Incentives47:27 Buying Property in Spain49:41 Show and Tell: A Taste of Spain51:43 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 397 - In Moldova, thousands of disabled children and adults remain unseen - hidden away by a system that offers them little support. In this episode, Andy speaks to humanitarian and social entrepreneur Victoria Dunford, founder of MAD-Aid, who is fighting to bring dignity, inclusion, and opportunity to those left behind. From transforming hospitals to changing laws, discover how one woman is challenging stigma and building a future where no one is invisible*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Victoria Dunford 01:24 Quickfire - Get to Know Victoria01:36 Victoria's Early Career and Challenges05:10 The State of Healthcare in Moldova08:00 Founding MAD-Aid and Early Efforts14:12 Changing Legislation and Social Impact17:49 Fundraising and Building Trust20:15 The Ukraine Conflict and Moldova's Future21:45 Business and Charity Partnerships22:52 Building Connections23:17 The Benefits of Donating to Charity23:29 Challenges and Changes in Charity Regulations24:41 Transparency and Trust in Charitable Donations26:28 The Importance of Grassroots and Big Charities26:43 Encouraging Heartfelt Donations27:33 The Role of Charity Commissions29:11 Fundraising and Donor Engagement33:08 Healthcare Systems in Moldova and the UK37:44 MAD-Aid's Goals and Ambitions40:27 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Founders43:56 Challenges and Misconceptions in Charity Work44:47 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 396 - Are supermarkets controlling more than just prices? global food expert Mark Field reveals the hidden secrets of the food industry, exposing how Big Food shapes what we eat, drives up costs, and impacts sustainability. Learn how corporate power influences your choices - and what it means for the future of food.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Mark Field00:57 Meet Mark: A Food Industry Leader01:43 Quickfire - Get To Know Mark02:00 Mark's Career Journey and Insights07:46 The Impact of COVID-19 on Prof Consulting12:36 Global Trends in the Food Industry15:19 Challenges and Innovations in Food Logistics18:54 Brexit's Impact on the UK Food Industry23:27 British Farming and Seasonal Produce27:25 Vertical Farming and Future Technologies27:41 Energy Costs vs. Output in Food Production28:19 Future of the Food Industry by 205029:44 Changing Food Preferences and Social Eating30:56 Global Food Diversity and Supermarket Trends37:10 Sustainability and Business Growth in Food Retail42:34 AI's Role in Food Industry Transformation48:44 Advice for Entering the Food Industry50:32 Challenges and Opportunities in Food Retail54:06 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 395 - Can big business actually change the world or is it all just PR? Andy speaks to Lucy Parker, Senior Advisor at Brunswick and co-author of The Activist Leader, on why CEOs need to stop playing it safe and start thinking like activists. From Gordon Brown’s task force to boardrooms at Maersk and Walmart, Lucy shares how companies can bridge the gap between profit and purpose, and why the future belongs to leaders with a backbone.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Lucy Parker01:19 Andy's Intro03:04 Quickfire - Get To Know Lucy09:47 Lucy's Current Role at Brunswick10:25 Big Business Addressing Societal Issues14:27 Challenges and Misconceptions About Big Business22:44 Big Businesses Making a Positive Impact28:19 The Role of Regulation and Policy in Business35:11 The Future of Business and Societal Change44:51 Developing a Sustainable Mindset45:35 The Role of Leadership in Sustainability45:59 Challenges and Responsibilities of Modern Business49:16 The Complexity of Global Issues49:40 The Journey Towards Net Zero51:02 Transparency and Accountability in Business01:07:33 The Importance of Data in ESG01:13:40 Activist Leadership in Business01:23:18 The Power of Storytelling in Leadership01:26:12 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 394 - This week Andy meets Bernard Savage who leads professional services business development consultancy - size ten and half boots.We have a wide running chat about how AI means that now, more than ever, professional services firms need to embrace sales. Luckily it’s also going to free up their time to do it.I’m not sure he persuaded Andy that sales wasn’t a dirty word. But we definitely buy into his rallying call that if you just do the same things as everyone else, then, well you are not going to stand out and your business will die.Straight talking advice indeed.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Bernard Savage01:19 Andy's Views on Bernard04:02 Quickfrie - Get to Know Bernard06:33 The Reality of Professional Services12:45 Networking and Business Development21:17 Client Relationships and Commerciality25:15 Evolving Business Development Strategies25:53 Impact of AI on Professional Services26:24 The Dominance of London in Professional Services27:41 The Importance of Client Relationships30:28 The Role of LinkedIn in Professional Networking33:06 Regional Differences in Professional Services35:33 Northern England: Challenges and Opportunities48:38 Balancing Authenticity and Professionalism51:24 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 393 - June's BOB quiz lineup sees Elizabeth Varley from the Department of Business and Trade, Silent Disco Company founder and CEO Toby Burns, and ex-Special Forces author and speaker Sarah Furness tackle topics including climate change, office nap pods, AI-created content, team-building exercises, and mandatory lunch breaks. Strap in!Chapters:00:00 Introduction to the Business or Bullshit Quiz00:42 Climate Change: Business or Bullshit?04:21 Office Nap Pods: A Good Idea?06:29 AI Created Content: Boon or Bane?09:43 Team Building Exercises: Effective or Awkward?13:20 Mandatory Hour-Long Lunch Breaks: Yay or Nay?businesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 392 - This week we meet Sarah Furness, whose self described superpower is being “just enough of a bitch”. If you want to know what she means by that, stop reading and start listening.Sarah was the first female helicopter pilot to lead special forces missions in Iraq.These days she is bringing battlefield hardened insights to business problems, helping leaders to create healthy behaviours and environments in threatening or stressful situations.It’s a wide ranging conversation, covering everything from gender roles and sexism to mindfulness under extreme pressure and something called disco leg. But our main focus was on psychological safety and why it is important in the military and business.As Sarah says, “The only way we can learn from a mistake is if we talk about it, and we can’t talk about it if you’re punished for it”.The bit about disco leg is right at the end, if you want to skip to that to find out what it means.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Sarah Furness01:16 Andy's Intro02:33 Quickfire: Get to Know Sarah07:53 Sarah's Journey: From Military to Mindfulness17:05 The Power of Mindfulness in High-Stress Situations24:47 Learning from Failure: Military Insights for Business31:14 Creating an Optimum Environment for Psychological Safety32:02 Encouraging Bravery in Leadership32:13 Vulnerability in Leadership34:28 Navigating Shame and Self-Compassion38:01 Self-Awareness and Inner Work in Leadership43:48 Gender and Leadership: Moving Beyond Stereotypes49:47 Customer-Centric Business Practices52:20 Lessons from Military Leadership01:01:16 The Importance of Humor and Camaraderie01:02:25 Top Tips for Founders and Entrepreneurs01:06:06 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 391 - This week we are joined by Toby Burns, immersive events pioneer and the man behind Silent Disco.He has some quite spicy things to say about how the UK treats entrepreneurship and flags an innovation that he would love to see the UK copy from China.Yep, we should copy China.You’ll have to listen in to find out how and why. But you will also get some real nuggets of business wisdom (in handy catch phrases). Such as “innovate or evaporate”, “diversify or die”.Most importantly, if you want to create continued success you need to create a great customer experience at every touchpoint.Let us know what you think in the comments.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*00:00 BWB with Toby Burns01:16 Andy's intro to Toby01:58 The Silent Disco Business Model03:57 Toby's Early Career and Family Business07:02 Customer Service and Business Philosophy14:16 Property Investments and Business Strategy16:55 Innovations and Future Plans30:16 The Turning Point: Scaling a Business31:01 Innovating in the Entertainment Industry32:52 Customer Service and Business Processes39:14 The Impact of Taxes on Business48:11 Navigating the COVID-19 Crisis54:15 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs01:03:12 Toby's Ultimate Party Line-Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 390 - Something a little different this week. We took BWB on the road to meet James Duckenfield, CEO of Glass Pharm and tour their state of the art facility for growing pharmaceutical grade cannabis.We learnt a lot of fascinating stuff - including that the only way that you are likely to die from cannabis, certainly medical cannabis, is if someone accidentally drops a ton of it on your head.Furthermore, this remarkable growing system is not just leading the way for growing medicinal cannabis, but its carbon negative approach and techniques are breaking new ground for horticulture in general.Listen in and learn.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB Live at Glass Pharms00:47 Andy & Medical Cannabis01:43 The UK Cannabis Conversation02:57 Tour of Glass Pharms Facility06:44 Cannabis Cultivation Techniques13:24 Regulations and Licensing18:59 Product Demonstration and Quality Control24:39 BWB with James Duckenfield CEO25:51 Medical Cannabis in the UK27:12 Public Perception and NHS Policies28:06 Cannabis and Chronic Pain29:31 Cannabis and Mental Health30:33 Global Cannabis Policies31:16 Personal Experiences with Cannabis32:28 Challenges in the Cannabis Industry33:09 The Endocannabinoid System35:24 Regulatory Hurdles42:01 Future of Medical Cannabis49:33 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 389 - This week we meet Elizabeth Varley. As founder and former CEO of Tech Hub she has played a pivotal role in shaping London’s Tech scene. In her role with the UK Government’s Global Entrepreneur Program she continues to influence our start and scale up business culture today.As you’d expect she has a lot of hot tips for founders, some of which we weren’t expecting. Such as “undergoing therapy will make you a better leader”.Fantastic chat from someone who is able to come at your business growing pains in unexpected ways.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Elizabeth Varley01:26 Andy's intro to Elizabeth02:18 Elizabeth's Early Career and Lessons Learned09:28 Elizabeth's Role in the Global Entrepreneur Program13:13 Challenges and Opportunities in Global Expansion21:41 Brexit and Its Impact on Entrepreneurs23:55 Fostering the UK Ecosystem24:22 International Investment Trends26:27 Opportunities in Sustainability27:56 The AI Hype and Reality29:23 Journey to Becoming a Deal Maker32:34 Founding Tech Hub38:53 The Importance of Therapy for Founders44:44 Advice for Entrepreneurs47:43 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 388 - May's quiz round up sees Daniel Priestley and Fernando Sordo Madaleno play the game to see if they think Brexit, Crowdfunding, Lobbying, Client Lunches, Paying for Top Talent and Diversity Quotas and are business or just complete tosh!*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Business or Bullsh*t00:53 Meet the Guests: Daniel Priestley and Fernando Sordo Madaleno01:18 Brexit: A Mexican Perspective03:05 Architectural Challenges and Talent05:08 Lobbying and Government Collaboration08:13 Angel Investing08:50 Flexible Working in Architecture09:41 Crowdfunding and Diversity Quotas11:35 The Importance of Client Lunchesbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 387 - We’re going back to the future this week with the excellent Akshat Rathi and his optimistic take on climate change.Akshat is a Bloomberg Senior Climate journalist, and the author of Climate Capitalism: Winning The Global Race To Zero Emissions.We spoke to him about his book, and:Why climate solutions investment needs to be made in the developing world and emerging markets to help them move away from coalWhy he felt it was so important to tell positive stories to help accelerate the fight against climate changeAndWhy he abandoned the idea of being a scientist (after getting a PhD) to become a storyteller in order to make a bigger positive impact on the worldAs you’d expect from someone who writes for Bloomberg, he’s very balanced and very astute.He’s happy to concede that climate change isn’t the only crisis facing humanity, but if we don’t fix it, it’ll make the others a whole lot worse. You can’t help feeling more positive after spending time in his company, so give it a go. *For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Akshat Rathi00:49 Andy's Intro to Akshat01:53 The Importance of Climate Solutions02:23 Challenges in Climate Journalism07:23 Success Stories in Climate Action11:16 The Role of Governments and Big Businesses12:43 Akshat's Journey and Passion for Climate Journalism18:36 Global Investment in Climate Solutions28:19 Practical Steps for SMEs29:43 Economic Realities in India30:01 Air Conditioning Around the World30:41 Career Reflections and Journalism34:06 Work Culture and Balance38:40 Social Media and Its Impact42:32 Greenwashing and Corporate Responsibility45:10 Quickfire - Get To Know Akshatbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 386 - This week we revisit our chat with Thomas Robson Kanu, who pivoted from a top level premier league and international football career into entrepreneurship, setting up family business the Turmeric Co.Based on a formula that he and his father developed to aid his recovery and pain relief (he was pain free in six weeks of consistent consumption) Thomas is now taking the same drive that fuelled his paying career into business.We talk about:Why so many superficially healthy drinks on our shop shelves contain so little nutrition and so much sugar that you might as well have a coke and enjoy itWhy it is so difficult to get natural remedies into the mainstream (hint, it’s to do with moneyAndWhy f**king up every day is the route to successIt’s a fascinating chat especially when you hear the drive and ambition for the Turmeric Co to emulate the global success of health drinks from a previous century (yes, we are talking about Coca Cola).*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Thomas Robson-Kanu00:32 The Birth of The Turmeric Company01:52 Andy's Intro 02:10 Thomas's Journey from Football to Entrepreneurship04:20 Challenges and Rewards of Professional Sports07:53 The Power of Natural Remedies16:01 Launching a Health Brand25:27 Clinical Studies and Health Benefits34:11 The Importance of Health and Nutrition35:41 Challenges in the Juice Industry37:12 Manufacturing and Shelf Life39:42 Business Growth and Strategy43:39 Consumer Trends and Functional Beverages52:32 The Reality of Juice Products58:18 Quickfire - Get To Know Thomas01:03:07 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 385 - Our guest this week is Fernando Sordo Madaleno, a third generation architect working in the family firm Sordo Madaleno.  Originally from Mexico City, Fernando is now based in London, spearheading the firm’s expansion as an international architecture studio.As well as discussing life in the family business we had a fascinating chat around architecture, the built environment.Fernando has a beautiful philosophy of architecture, that is should try and combine three things. A deep, well researched, understanding of the context and culture that the building is going to be in especially if you are coming as an outsider. Why great buildings should always be designed to the human scale (yes he does explain what that means), and how great architects should always try and think of ways to push the brief so that projects can have a positive impact on the communities that they exist in.He also mentions that the client is sometimes right. Which is nice.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Fernando Sordo Madaleno01:18 Meet Fernando03:09 Quickfire - Get To Know Fernando05:51 Fernando's Current Projects and Vision07:12 The Essence of Sordo Madaleno08:11 Human-Centric Urban Planning12:12 Challenges and Inspirations in Architecture18:06 The Unique Character of Mexico City21:59 The Legacy of Sordo Madaleno24:57 The Value of Good Architecture28:31 Local Efficiency and Quality28:49 Innovative School Design29:40 Community-Centric Architecture32:10 Global Influence of Mexican Architecture37:22 Challenges of International Expansion42:15 The Role of AI in Architecture46:11 Balancing Client Needs and Architectural Vision57:08 Advice for Aspiring Architects and Entrepreneurs59:29 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 384 - This week Daniel Priestley discusses how we build a new role for Britain post Brexit (yes, we dropped the B-Word in 2025). Basically Britain faces a choice between being that, a lapdog for the US or the sixth best Scandinavian country.The way he says it, it makes sense. Particularly when he is talking about how hard it is now to grow a business with “escape velocity” in the UK these days.Serial entrepreneur Daniel also talks us through:The importance of personal brand and why it is replacing geography in business decision makingHis 7-11-4 model for growing your personal brandHow AI is here to supercharge small businesses (and rightsize large ones)He also said that long-form podcasts are AI resistant. Which is lucky.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Daniel Priestley01:17 Meet Daniel 02:16 Daniel's Entrepreneurial Journey03:40 The Rise of Personal Brands in Business06:46 AI's Role in Business and Employment12:35 Daniel's Current Ventures and Business Insights19:22 The UK's Business Environment and Future Prospects41:37 Entrepreneurial Spirit in the UK42:52 UK vs. US Business Landscape45:48 The Role of AI and Technology in Business48:34 Future of Education and High-Velocity Careers59:38 Strategies for Attracting High-Value Clients01:03:31 Failures and Lessons in Entrepreneurship01:05:14 The 7-11-4 Rule for Building Relationships01:13:26 Quickfire - Get To Know Danielbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 383 - Jonathan MacDonald is back on the show and keener than ever to get you interested in Ethical Tech.We discuss why now, more than ever, people need to be given the tools, and moral frameworks to inform their interactions with increasingly opaque technology. How things like social media are seemingly set up to keep us amused, distracted and rob us of our critical thinking faculties and what that means for humanity in the long term.Jonathan isn’t an anarchist in a tin foil hat (or a cryptoevangelist in a blonde wig come to that) but he is very compelling on why we need to question whether Big Tech algorithms and the people who control them actually have our best interests at heart.He’s pretty convinced that they don’t, or at least don’t care about us beyond what we can do for them. Which is why he has set up SELF - a personal privacy filter - and also ETHICS TV to help people discuss, understand and control their own moral choices around tech.We also chat about the Roman Empire and its attitude to analogous situations. We know plenty of you like to think about that kind of thing quite a lot.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Jonathan MacDonald02:23 Meet Jonathan03:18 The Mission: Alternative Future for Technology04:44 Humans Are Batteries05:05 The Reality of Free Services05:58 The Normalisation of Surveillance06:29 The Impact of Social Media on Society07:33 The Coercion of Media and Politics08:37 The Evolution of SELF: Personal Privacy Filter09:50 The Demand for Privacy in AI Tools10:50 The Future of Privacy: Self-Sovereign Mechanisms11:47 The Physicality of Data Privacy12:37 The Ineffectiveness of GDPR13:09 The Dark Side of Data Exploitation14:53 The Post-COVID Awareness Shift34:02 Ethics in Technology37:28 The Problem with Modern Democracy39:18 The Importance of Critical Thinking39:58 The Role of Media in Critical Thinking42:30 Education and Critical Thinking46:15 Ethical Issues in AI and Media46:41 The Dystopian Future of AI53:37 Building Ethical Technology01:04:36 Personal Reflections and Advice01:11:08 Quickfire - Get To Know Jonathanbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 382 - April's quiz round up sees Alex Edmans, Anand Menon and Psyfer play the game to see if they think Brexit, Labour Government, GDPR, Crowdfunding, Lobbying Client Lunches and are business or just complete tosh!*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Is it Business or Bullsh*t?00:45 Brexit01:37 Labour Government03:18 GDPR04:16 Crowdfunding05:25 Lobbying07:48 Client Lunchesbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 381 - This week we talk to Alex Edmans about how you make decisions in a world full of misinformation. Alex is a Professor of Finance who has written and spoken extensively about subjects such as ESG (why those three letters don’t belong together) and why cognitive, rather than demographic diversity is a better indicator of business success.He’s managed to do all that without getting cancelled, because his findings and talking points are guided by objective data rather than opinion. Though we do discuss how data itself can be misleading.So if you want to know why too much diversity can be a bad thing, then dive in.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Alex Edmans01:15 Synopsis02:07 Meet Alex - Professor of Finance03:54 Challenges in Assessing Cognitive Diversity08:08 The Role of Academics in Real-World Impact18:00 Confirmation Bias and Its Impact on Decision Making30:36 The Nuances of Diversity and Inclusion35:22 The Evolution and Challenges of ESG Reporting39:20 The Burden of Reporting40:31 The Problem with Standardised Metrics42:16 Regulation vs. Market Demand43:21 SMEs and Purpose-Driven Business44:52 The Complexity of ESG48:29 Governance: A Historical Accident01:11:40 The Importance of Financial Literacy01:13:22 Quickfire - Get to Know Alex01:17:50 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 380 - This week we're trying a cultural experiment - to start an occasional series called Business Without Baggage that helps people understand the nuances of doing business across different cultures. To kick us off, we invited accomplished French corporate Lawyer and expert on cultural intelligence Olivier Lopez onto the show.  We asked him to explain the nuances of doing business with the French and also got some expert hints about how different cultures operate around the world.We chatted about how you can trace many of France’s cultural instincts and attitudes back to  a revolutionary spirit, the application of logic and an abiding need to feel Liberté, Egalité et Fraternité in all of their dealings as well as finding a balance in life.We also put these attitudes in a wider cultural context - amazingly a lot of it is to do with food, but not in the way you think. But we do have some fine wine and lovely cheese along the way.We’d love to do more in this occasional series, so if you want to talk about what it’s like to do business with your fellow country folk (even if you’re only from Yorkshire) get in touch. You’ve got a lot to live up to on the food front mind.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Olivier Lopez01:00 Special Episode: Business Without Baggage01:29 Meet Olivier - Legal Expert and Negotiation Teacher02:16 The Path to Becoming a Lawyer04:58 Cultural Identities in French Business08:42 Regional Differences Within France14:34 Negotiation Tactics Across Cultures42:52 The Role of Lawyers in Business46:45 Invoice Payment Practices in France47:51 Hierarchy and Flat Structures in French Business49:13 French Cultural Values: Equality and Rebellion51:17 Engaging a French Audience: Expectations and Preferences56:04 Collaborative vs. Individualistic Work Styles59:30 Financial Support and Equality in France01:03:57 Setting Up a Business in France01:09:51 French Cultural Nuances and Business Practices01:26:02 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 379 - Our guest this week is artist and bitcoin evangelist Psyfer. He wants to get you all high on the Hope-ium that Bitcoin (not any other crypto-currencies, they are all Sh*tcoin apparently) are the way to end inequality and injustice. We weigh up the pros - it’s decentralised and accessible to everyone.The cons - it’s a scary mystery to most people that feels like a scam.And the revolutionary - how bitcoin challenges the existing power and wealth structures of governments, corporations and the obscenely wealthy (although they could all just buy bitcoin)So, are Bitcoiners just getting high on their own supply or will it change the world? Get Psyfer-delic with this week’s episode. Turn on, tune in and find out!*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Psyfer02:05 Meet Psyfer - Art and Financial Rebellion02:35 The Mystery and Security of Bitcoin05:50 Bitcoin vs. Other Cryptocurrencies08:26 The Future of Money: Bitcoin's Potential13:28 Economic Implications of Bitcoin Adoption27:57 Public Services and Private Markets33:45 Responding to Technological Change34:17 The Flexibility of Remote Work34:44 Using Bitcoin in Everyday Transactions35:27 The Inclusive Bitcoin Community36:22 Finding and Joining Local Bitcoin Meetups37:31 Tax Implications of Bitcoin Transactions38:42 Bitcoin's Role in Global Economics39:40 The Future of Money and Bitcoin46:45 The Problem with Fiat Money56:49 Quickfire - Get to Know Psyfer58:44 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 378 - Political scientist Anand Menon joins us this week to talk about the good, the bad and the downright ugly of the choices facing the UK in a rapidly changing world. We discuss how we all need to redraw a mental map of the “Western Alliance” as a result of the Trump administration, how the UK government is walking a diplomatic tightrope between the US and the EU and why their positive drive for growth could get derailed by events outside of their control.Anand brings evidence, rather than opinion and ideology to the table. Which helps navigate emotionally charged issues such as whether immigration is good for the economy, and why the net immigration numbers are set to fall (hint, it’s nothing to do with small boats).We even managed to have a sensible conversation about Brexit, the pros, the cons, the winners and the losers who are likely to pay the highest price for it. It might not be who you think.As Anand says, “people tell us, that the reason that they listen to us is that they don’t know what we are going to say”*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Anand Menon02:21 Meet Anand03:14 Brexit's Psychological and Political Impact03:32 Trump's Influence on Global Politics09:06 UK's Immigration System: Challenges and Changes21:25 Economic and Social Consequences of Brexit34:48 Historical Reflections and Trade Realities36:57 Brexit's Timing and Globalisation Challenges38:02 Political Nuances and Public Opinion38:55 Future of UK-EU Relations44:13 UK's Global Role and Diplomatic Strengths47:14 Think-Tank Insights and Regulatory Challenges57:42 Quickfire - Get To Know Anand01:02:20 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 377 - March's quiz round up sees Ben Askins, Alex Depledge MBE and Brad Burton play the game to see if they think GDPR, Angel Syndicates, Crowdfunding, Client lunches and ChatGPT are business or just complete tosh!Chapters:00:00 Welcome to Business or Bullshit Quiz00:57 GDPR02:26 Angel Syndicates04:13 Crowdfunding06:07 Client Lunches07:01 Chat GPT08:42 Digital Nomadsbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 376 - Our guest this week freely admits to have totally made up the idea of the UK having a #1 motivational speaker (to be fair, it’s not a chart rundown show we would watch anyway).Brad has some interesting things to say about how getting your belief and your attitude right is the key to success. He also has practical tips on how to create that optimism, find peace, and live more in the now. The last two involve turning off your phone.Crisps, Maltesers and wizards also get a mention.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Brad Burton01:14 Meet Brad; Resilience and Reinvention03:38 The Power of Belief in Business08:37 Living in the Present: Letting Go of the Past12:36 The Impact of Digital World on Modern Life18:06 The British Moat: Self-Belief and Humility24:35 Chasing Dreams: When is Enough, Enough?26:33 Finding True Happiness27:26 The State of Society and Business27:52 Challenges of the Modern Economy31:09 The Benefits Trap34:35 The Importance of Mindset38:50 Work-Life Balance and Business Success46:08 Quickfire - Get To Know Bradbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 375 - The conversation ranged far and wide with Alex Depledge, CEO of Resi and newly coined “Tech- Sis”.  It took in her frustrations that no-one wants to have a long term conversation, how the short term news cycle is killing politics and why increasing polarisation is killing informed debate and damaging society.She came out to bat for the Labour government in general - we should give them time - and Rachel Reeves in particular for her willingness to stand behind a decision, even if it is unpopular. She did not come out to bat for bats, people who play the victim and using regulatory sledgehammers to crack walnuts.  If you like your opinions strong and your laughter infectious, listen in.FACT CORRECTION - Alex stated that the UK Electric Grid energy wastage is at 40% which may have been true at the time of recording. Most recent figures show that it is nearer 10%.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Alex Depledge MBE03:29 Alex's Current Role and Responsibilities04:54 Challenges in the Housing Sector05:57 Energy Efficiency and Renovation06:49 Fragmented Construction Industry16:11 Government Policies and Long-term Solutions19:21 Labour Party's Approach to Business and Economy27:57 *Andy's Key Takeaways* 30:34 Regulations and the Role of Bats34:20 The Impact of Private School Attacks34:51 Understanding the Worker's Rights Bill35:13 Probation Periods in Employment37:11 Planning and Business Efficiency38:29 The Housing Crisis and Council Incentives39:22 Environmental Regulations and Development40:16 The Importance of Company Policies44:12 Diversity of Thought vs. Quotas48:49 *Andy's Key Takeaways*52:31 The Immigration Debate54:14 Challenges of Modern Employment58:27 Quickfire - Get To Know Alex01:05:03 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 374 - This episode is probably not for everybody, in fact it’s probably not for 99.55% of people.  But if you are a non-dom, know a non-dom or just want to understand what a non dom actually is then this is the episode for you.I guess if you’ve ever wondered what happens when a bunch of tax law experts hijack a podcast studio - and one of you might have done - you’ll probably also want to give it a listen.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 Tax Without Bullshit - Special Episode01:22 Meet the Tax Experts02:53 Understanding Non-Dom Status04:03 Changes in Tax Rules from April 5th06:59 Implications for Non-Doms and Foreigners08:33 New Tax Opportunities and Simplifications18:54 Temporary Repatriation Facility (TRF)23:06 Understanding the TRF and Its Implications24:55 Attracting Foreigners to the UK27:06 Inheritance Tax: Rules and Strategies33:20 Excluded Property Trusts: A Deep Dive37:31 Practical Considerations and Future Planning43:19 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 373 - This week we sit down with Jon White, a professional kayaker, engineer, business leadership coach and occasional rock climber, who would probably be doing none of those things if he hadn’t lost his right arm and both legs stepping on an I.E.D. in Afghanistan in 2010.Jon is fascinating on how calm acceptance (and the royal marine value of humour in the face of adversity) helped him avoid PTSD.  He’s very clear that his personal approach might not work for everybody but we think that there is a lot to learn from his calm, understated approach to life.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Jon White03:02 The Afghanistan Conflict Explained07:56 Life After Injury: Rehabilitation and Resilience24:41 The Importance of Mindset and Humour33:10 Rehabilitation and Adaptation36:13 Innovations in Prosthetics37:17 Personal Journey and Challenges38:56 Business Ventures and Leadership41:59 Engineering and Adaptation48:28 Philosophies on Life and Leadership54:31 Quickfire - Get To Know Jon01:05:42 Wrap Upbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark

EP 372 - Our guest, Ben Askins, is pretty convincing when he says that being green is one of, if not THE biggest commercial opportunity of the century.  Ben is a serial entrepreneur, now scaling Green-Tech start-up Gaia, so he knows his onions. Our chat gets stuck into culture wars, and culture warriors, and why we need to get our heads out of short term political point scoring and into the long game.  Us, the media, everybody.He also makes a very good point that you can’t make being a politician a thankless job, with terrible pay and still expect the best and brightest to apply to run the country.*For Apple Podcast chapters, access them from the menu in the bottom right corner of your player*Spotify Video Chapters:00:00 BWB with Ben Askins02:29 Ben's Background and New Venture - Gaia03:29 Gaia's Role in Environmental Regulation05:57 The Importance of Biodiversity Net Gain07:08 The Marketplace for Natural Assets13:38 The Future of Green Tech and Energy Efficiency23:47 Ben's Journey in Digital Marketing25:48 Building a Personal Brand on Social Media28:34 The Challenges of Being a Boss and Entrepreneur32:58 The Unappealing Job Dilemma33:56 Social Media in Politics34:58 Engagement Groups and Media Manipulation36:59 The Complexity of Political Debates37:10 Monetising Hobbies and Job Satisfaction38:02 The Need for Honest Political Communication45:32 The Challenges of Running a Government50:21 Climate Change and Green Technology57:14 Quickfire - Get To Know Benbusinesswithoutbullshit.meWatch and subscribe to us on YouTubeFollow us:InstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterFacebookIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - [email protected] is powered by Oury Clark