The Mic Drop

Ed and Ben are back, and this week things get philosophical - via afternoon tea, motorcycle mishaps, and the furthest humanity has ever travelled from Earth.Ben's suspension saga takes an unexpected turn when a moment of impatience leads him to buy a second motorbike he didn't need, which kicks off a brilliant conversation about how our shrinking attention spans are fundamentally changing the way we make decisions, consume content, and engage with brands. From the three-second rule for video to the F-shaped reading pattern, the guys dig into what it actually means to capture and keep someone's interest in 2026.Ed introduces his concept of the Trust Gap and explains why most franchise brands are essentially asking prospects to go on a blind date. Spoiler: they won't show up.There's also: subtitles vs. dubbing, why we love lawns (it's evolution), Artemis 2's broken toilet, a full bladder as a productivity tool, and Ben's son's name going around the moon.Tracks of the Week:Ed - Venom by Wind Wakerhttps://open.spotify.com/track/6Yj0FdKYs2qgDunRV8AW3t?si=559c946693704454Ben Masters of War by Grandson (originally Bob Dylan, 1963)https://open.spotify.com/track/0EJlSUNoYL931cYAQspN5i?si=e7173fc80f744e1b

They're back! Three weeks late, zero apologies. The clocks have changed, Ben's been angry about it ever since, and Ed offloaded his kids on the in-laws and had a lovely time.We get into:Ed's webinar on franchise recruitment in the AI era and why brands are losing prospects they don't even know they hadBen's vibe-coded CRM that turned 10 leads into 4 meetings (and what that says about attention spans)Why AI might be doing to music what cameras did to painting - hello cubism, goodbye chord shapesAngine de Poitrine: microtonal alien jazz from Quebec that means "chest pain." Which tracks.Enter Shikari's new album and the concept of "moral narcolepsy" (look it up, it's brilliant)President live at the LCR, £45 merch, and a support act dressed like Squid GameSnake jazz. Don't ask. Just listen.TRACKS OF THE WEEKEd: SARNIEZZ by Angine de Poitrine - https://open.spotify.com/track/6iDKiCR13L8Ba6bkK6cqqt?si=0f636791bca146e9Ben: The Flick of a Switch I. by Enter Shikari - https://open.spotify.com/track/6sZQXNlRl4GRKhopNSD3pO?si=3a5a77d2343c438d

Two cars in a month… dolphins getting high… and a franchise awards night that went exactly how you’d expect (i.e. sideways).This episode starts with a harmless catch-up and quickly spirals into:The reality of buying “budget” cars (and why every dodgy one “just runs like that”)Dolphins apparently getting high off puffer fish… and what that says about intelligenceBehind the scenes of the EF100 Awards – presenting, pressure, and post-event chaosWhat actually happens after the awards (hint: sweat, dancing, and poor decisions)Why metal music might actually help your brain focusPokémon cards, Cheeto Charizards, and accidental investmentsTRACKS OF THE WEEKBen – Darwinism by Kubla Khan TXhttps://open.spotify.com/search/Kubla%20Khan%20TX%20DarwinismEd – Colours by Black Pumashttps://open.spotify.com/search/Black%20Pumas%20Colours🔑 TakeawaysSometimes you just need to lean in and enjoy the momentExpect nothing… and you might end up loving itYour brain works how it works—lean into what helps you focusAnd somewhere out there… dolphins are having a better weekend than you

For the first time ever… we’re out in the wild.Recording from a swanky London hotel bar (pub rules still apply), this episode is what happens when you mix franchising, filming chaos, questionable teenage stories, and just enough alcohol to make things… unpredictable.We get into:Behind the scenes of “Franchising’s Got Talent” – from “great idea” to full-blown production madnessWhy filming is never as simple as “just get some footage”Egos, logistics, and the reality of pulling together a multi-camera shootThe first ever Mic Drop Pubcast (and why this might become a thing…)Music, nostalgia, and how Skunk Anansie accidentally helped Ed pass EnglishAnd:Live mic dropsGuest appearancesTakeawaysFilming always takes longer than you think… and involves more chaos than plannedGreat ideas are easy… executing them is where the fun (and stress) beginsCommunity makes the madness worth itAnd most importantly… make time for the fun stuffTRACKS OF THE WEEK: Ed - Video Killed the Radio Star by The Buggles - https://open.spotify.com/track/7o7E1nrHWncYY7PY94gCiX?si=4d273283977b4879Ben - Charlie Big Potato by Skunk Anansie - https://open.spotify.com/track/7FY6MkxmeSt6WSeC0XnY5m?si=a932368497534caaSpecial Guest Natalia - Find Home by Jenny Williams - https://open.spotify.com/track/09BGFqGyf9SdLSa7QZ23zC?si=39a33eb53f2a4d99BEN's LINKSComing soon???

Sun’s out… tempers are not.In this episode, Ed’s on the brink thanks to car chaos, Ben’s fresh from an AI seminar and fully “vibe coding,” and somewhere along the way we discover that orcas might be chatting… or scientists have finally lost the plot.We get into:The real, practical use of AI in business (not just the fluffy “we’re 30% more productive” chat)GEO vs SEO and how people are actually searching now (“best for me” is changing everything)The brutal reality of attention spans (you’ve got about 1.3 seconds… good luck)Why making a 6-minute video feels like filming a feature-length documentaryOrcas apparently speaking English… sort of (this goes downhill fast)It’s part marketing insight, part therapy session, part complete nonsense.TakeawaysAI isn’t the future… it’s already here. Start playing.Content isn’t about volume anymore, it’s about relevance + trust.If you’re not creating, you’re disappearing.And apparently… don’t trust an orca.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Thrash Metal Cassette by Dinosaur Pile-Up - https://open.spotify.com/track/0RhYWcRxUljBv363WhAbtu?si=2782e16c8f36481bBen - Freestyle by Fox Lake - https://open.spotify.com/track/752QBrQ3zOGjCbsXblrMFU?si=63f5b24df1134291BEN'S LINKS:[Tumbleweed]

Ben and Ed bounce from unpredictable British weather to quiz-night confidence, from YouTube algorithms to fast food ads that may or may not be “authentic.” They unpack how social media really works, why dwell time quietly rules your feed, and whether brands like McDonald’s are selling burgers or selling carefully staged relatability. Along the way there’s talk of rhyming orange, $20 matchboxes, post-hardcore music discoveries, and why real human interaction still beats frictionless efficiency.It’s a curious wander through branding, technology and culture, with the usual blend of humour and sharp observation.Because in a world run by algorithms, being human might just be the advantage. 🎤TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Gasoline by Story of the Year:https://open.spotify.com/track/2HOOOhhR7w9gaN5v9kpgHQ?si=5890484b78f34b12Ben - Omen by Phantom Limbs:https://open.spotify.com/track/6rcgXDsSTVJ9o852Xb9PVd?si=b752a9e0fa984d1fBEN'S LINKS:Coming Soon???

In this episode of Mic Drop, Ed and Ben begin with Britain’s favourite pastime, obsessing over the weather, and end up exploring how grey skies affect mood, why nutrition and vitamin D matter more than we think, and how creativity can be a serious business advantage.Along the way: nostalgic detours, cultural reflections through music, the strange power of music videos, and the unforgettable “Dead Fish Butler.” business idea.It’s humour, honesty and creative thinking rolled into one slightly unpredictable conversation.Lean into creativity. Even when it’s raining. 🎤TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - Angel Wings by President:https://open.spotify.com/track/156gjKaMoJgvTRhhD2w5qp?si=6b98b80be1214180Ed - Nightmare Tripping (Feat. Nickleback) by Don Broco:https://open.spotify.com/track/3WzTUJKWd9pEYDepJpWJK1?si=a8543120168d46c6

Ben and Ed start with Valentine’s Day and quickly abandon all structure.What follows is a deep dive into the 10,000-hour rule, why productivity doesn’t always feel productive, and whether true skill can actually be replicated in business or if some things just refuse to be systemised.Along the way: obscure world championships, the strange beauty of niche sports, YouTube rabbit holes, and the joy of getting good at something most people overlook.Then it pivots to music nostalgia. Why certain eras hit harder. How old songs are finding new life. And whether “new” is ever really new.It’s part business lesson, part cultural time machine, part chaotic group chat.Sound bites include:“I tolerate you.”“You can’t replicate that.”“New isn’t always better.”TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Even if it kills me by Papa Roach:https://open.spotify.com/track/4xxRw27PBdTfIRLpC2FJRh?si=e00b898c33c94d01Ben - Free by Twin Atlantic:https://open.spotify.com/track/3cYT3kt33eBGVvNsZ7M13I?si=1dfa8e83b6774409BEN'S LINKSHybrid Picking - https://www.instagram.com/reel/DTeCqyfADyX/?igsh=N3hqZWlhOGJ1NHRsReel Big Fish - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZIPSxOC3154Book - Outliers: The Story of Success:https://amzn.eu/d/03Smc4Y8Metalcore on Mandolin: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDfJ03In6oEP.S. I love listening to the mandolin playing by the way Natalia ;) (ED)

In this episode of Mic Drop, Ed and Ben wander from alcohol-free living and lifestyle resets into culture, branding, and why the things we think we won’t like often teach us the most.They unpack the unexpected grip of Bridgerton, what it reveals about desire, connection, and escapism, and why dismissing popular culture is usually lazy thinking. From there, the conversation pivots into business, trust, and identity. Especially why sounding polished isn’t the same as being memorable.BrewDog becomes a case study in brand imperfection. Loud, divisive, impossible to ignore. Proof that if everyone sounds the same, no one gets remembered. The episode also explores leadership blind spots, the Peter Principle creeping into organisations, and why owning mistakes builds more trust than pretending you don’t have any.They round things off with music chat and including some Sexy Metal.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - Antimatter by Silent Planethttps://open.spotify.com/track/1Chjeu7itQhIgeL1HpVDuN?si=1faddc38deba4bd4Ed - I'm Eighteen by Alice Cooperhttps://open.spotify.com/track/3YU9X8ryOR20beT7wOlDIJ?si=8609874e29b94c58

January feels heavy. Motivation dips, routines wobble, and everything somehow costs more than it should.In this episode of Mic Drop, Ben and Ed talk candidly about the January blues, mental health, and how planning, movement, and community can make the toughest month more manageable. From honest weight-loss struggles to the unseen stress of event planning, this is a real conversation about keeping momentum when energy is low.They then turn their attention to franchise exhibitions. With footfall falling and trust harder to earn, they question whether expos are still serving the people they’re meant to. Are they too transactional? Too expensive? Too focused on leads over relationships?The conversation explores trust-building, interactive experiences, franchising as supported self-employment, and why the industry needs to feel more human if it’s going to grow. Along the way, there are detours into ghost cities, music culture, collaboration over competition… and an unexpected morning train party.Honest, reflective, and unapologetically real.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Bad Habits by Chainska Brassika:https://open.spotify.com/track/3r9Ic9eomv28KYCZihiijZ?si=00b0f21b7d1d46b5Ben - Mmm Bop by StyleShift AI:https://open.spotify.com/track/0gvxGhLvaW1m7stt9fQ0Vg?si=d691cbbb95fe4158

In this episode of Mic Drop, Ben and Ed start with a snack debate and end up talking about the future. Along the way, they cover cultural differences, orchestra trips, the strange magic of music composition, and real-world insights from the franchise space.They dig into what’s changing in marketing, why engagement and trust-building content matter more than ever, and how creativity cuts through in a crowded market. Then it’s crystal-ball time: predictions for 2026, AI, recruitment, and why most future-gazing means nothing unless you actually take action.TRACKS OF THE WEEKEd - Drag Me by From Ashes to New:https://open.spotify.com/track/459NVRkYEftpuwkmSH1U1H?si=2808186c6b844d26Ben - MHITR (Semi Automatic) by Hedex:https://open.spotify.com/track/11Gypesywvx4AnUeYxeLaY?si=30b03a7b86314851BEN'S (And Ed's!) LINKS:Volume playlist on Spotify

Ben and Ed kick off the New Year with trademark Mic Drop banter, sharing reflections on Christmas, culture, and the strange language of New Year’s resolutions.They explore why resolutions so often fail, the psychology behind goal-setting, and why discipline, accountability, and systems matter more than motivation. The conversation weaves through health and fitness, business and franchising realities, learning from people who’ve gone before you, and accepting that nobody really has it all figured out.There’s also a detour into space exploration, big thinking, and the music that fuels focus and personal growth, before closing with a Mic Drop moment that cuts through the noise and encourages listeners to stop overthinking and just start.New year energy, minus the clichés. 🎙️TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Baiana by Nia Archives:https://open.spotify.com/track/7B0gxo0jQCy5Lk93RIODAC?si=8408b1f7d8874341Ben - Fistful of Steel LIVE by Rage Against the Machine:https://open.spotify.com/track/1mS0YNKvhysjSCjPCdOG2N?si=ad430a13cbf74d29BEN'S LINKSHe's started off the year lazy and hasn't even provided any recommendations!

LISTEN AFTER EPISODE 20For episode 20 of The Mic Drop podcast Ben and Ed were due to get each other a gift and open it live in front of each other on the podcast.Ben's gift for Ed didn't arrive on time, probably cause he ordered it from Temu or somewhere like that, so Ed recorded the opening of the gift in this very short clip.Merry Christmas everyone and have a great festive break!See you in the New Year!

Christmas has arrived and so has peak Mic Drop chaos.In this festive special, Ed Purnell and Ben Brookes crack open their Christmas traditions, from gift-exchange anticipation and family rituals to the very serious business of Christmas dinner.Expect strong opinions on roast potato quantities, porchetta devotion, carvery logic, and why Brussels sprouts deserve more respect. There’s talk of festive desserts, tiramisu twists, chocolate orange bread and butter pudding, and the music that soundtracks Christmas Day from first drink to final plate.Along the way, things derail into ducknapping accusations, cracker jokes, Peter Andre surprises, and the kind of festive banter that only Christmas can justify.It’s light-hearted, food-obsessed, nostalgic, and full of gratitude as Ed and Ben celebrate their 20th episode and thank everyone who’s been part of the Mic Drop journey so far.Pull up a chair, loosen your belt, and press play.XMAS PLAYLISThttps://open.spotify.com/playlist/2i5mmiMrwMW8RkR1jDOYXZ?si=-7u3NG09QTS1eiEn07PPBg

This episode sprints through busted mindsets, franchise recruitment madness, people-pleasing chaos, shopping disasters, and why Christmas music charts make absolutely no sense anymore.There’s a festive music quiz, confessions from Spotify Wrapped, and a detour into how music supervisors secretly control your emotions. Plus: unexpected gratitude, winter delusion, and the occasional useful insight.It’s loud, loose, festive-feral energy. Classic Mic Drop.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - I don't want to set the world on fire by The Ink Spots:https://open.spotify.com/track/777zXDJpBufzttU4AJ2dGO?si=f9d79a49e31b4b1eBen - Heavy Lies the Crown by Machine Head:https://open.spotify.com/track/6ZJAJyyWzGyLbvCn6o0ybb?si=6ef79fb44aa4408cBen's Links:Kevin Bloody Wilson Song - https://open.spotify.com/track/4qheQSem1woVNBM7y7YLCy?si=cb8bf5e617ea451fBlue Monday - Coming Soon???

Ben and Ed return with a festive, tech-tinged episode that swings from nativity-play chaos to AI confusion, with plenty of music, franchising, and existential pondering along the way.They kick things off with holiday greetings and a rant about battling modern AI tools, before diving into weather woes, school performances, and the universal parenting experience of having no idea what role your child is supposed to be playing.Their Spotify Wrapped reveals surprising listening habits, forgotten tracks, and the slow death of the full-album experience. From genre rabbit holes to shared musical memories, the duo explore why music still shapes how we connect: online, offline, and in business.The conversation shifts into the world of franchising and content, including how podcasts help build trust, why people crave authenticity, and the idea of creating a very real, very awkward “Franchise Unwrapped”. They also touch on culture, community, and how shared experiences even in virtual reality can strengthen relationships.It’s a warm, funny, wandering conversation about tech, creativity, connection, and the strange things that make us human. And yes: everyone does need a podcast.TRACK OF THE WEEK:Ed - In my mind by The Amazonshttps://open.spotify.com/track/0Exl4jdJFmiztWnvXr5nHZ?si=d44eeb416af54abfBen - 2step3fun4llowing by ISCREAM NEVER GROUNDhttps://open.spotify.com/track/0yUUObUT5XJSAsVtLLol6A?si=7d489b821dbb4a1bBen's Links:The Secret of Secrets by Dan Brownhttps://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1787634558/ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cso_cp_apan_dp_KK6DCDFMTK87C8HK5SEG

Ben & Ed are back with an episode that blends franchising insight, music nostalgia, and festive chaos in classic Mic Drop style.This week, they break down their experience judging the Elite Franchise 100, the rise of children’s services in the industry, and why strong branding and real human connection still make all the difference in franchise recruitment. They also touch on cat care franchises, filming days, and what McDonald’s can still teach everyone.On the music side, the duo pay tribute to the legendary Steve Cropper, share their latest musical discoveries, and go head-to-head in a Christmas music quiz. Plus, they explore unusual festive traditions from around the world — including Japan’s famous Christmas KFC.It’s a fast-paced mix of franchising, storytelling, and soundtrack moments, wrapped up with practical takeaways and a few unexpected rabbit holes.TRACK OF THE WEEK:Ben - Fall for You by the Autumn Fireshttps://open.spotify.com/track/5tweBKGxflWcvmhJfPi5I2?si=9286d69a48c84940Ed - Heavyweight - KMotionZ, Arr Dee & Riko Danhttps://open.spotify.com/track/3v5zBPtf296IiVc1uiv5No?si=667d4a02b9014883

This week on Mic Drop, Ben and Ed swap stories from the battlefield of daily life — from mechanical meltdowns to podcasting mishaps. They open up about the impact of charity initiatives, specifically the shoebox campaign bringing smiles to children who need it most.The conversation drifts through waves of nostalgia, revisiting old nightclub memories and the weird tricks that age plays on the mind. Music soon takes over as the duo debates songwriting simplicity, the emotive power of vocals, and the fact that you can basically write any rock song with four chords if you believe in it hard enough.With humour, warmth, and just a touch of chaos, this episode reminds us that sometimes the best moments happen between the lines — in the pauses, the laughter, and the unscripted surprises.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Black Tears by Imelda May:https://open.spotify.com/track/29BQ4ugLAaXIqqu8f1gNUj?si=cabddd2b1b9b4619Ben - Wondering Why by The Red Clay Strays:https://open.spotify.com/track/1HbzxLqpNVPdiBXvpC7Ovb?si=2a7c6f78aa544a6aBen's Links:Teams4uhttps://teams4u.com/Natalia Shvarts - https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0G3JL1NRM?ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0WGMK273ZR8S4Y45TJM0&ref_=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0WGMK273ZR8S4Y45TJM0&social_share=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_0WGMK273ZR8S4Y45TJM0&bestFormat=true4 Chordshttps://www.google.com/search?kgmid=/g/1q5jghc5r&hl=en-GB&q=4+Chords&shndl=17&shem=damc,shrtsdl&source=sh/x/kp/osrp/m5/1&kgs=0191bd72abaaf279&utm_source=damc,shrtsdl,sh/x/kp/osrp/m5/1

In this episode of Mic Drop, Ed Purnell and Ben Brookes wade into the wild world of ticket reselling, music history, and Trademark Branding — because where else would you get that combo?From the chaos of dynamic pricing to the soulful influence of blues on modern music, the pair explore how culture, business, and creativity constantly collide. They dive into why authentic branding matters, how music genres blend into something new, and why legislators are finally cracking down on resellers who ruin the fun for real fans.Packed with humour, personal stories, and a few unexpectedly profound moments, this episode proves that whether it’s concerts, franchises, or the blues… everything is better when you keep it real.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - Fear by NFhttps://open.spotify.com/track/3HfKlhohNNTLIv2t9uvmzz?si=60fabad6f819401aEd - Hide Away by Freddie Kinghttps://open.spotify.com/track/2bV2rAslNR4CjjG8CuEQhZ?si=baf6248333774f0aBen's Links:Empty today :D

Ben and Ed are back after Ben's ridiculously long holiday!Good news is they're armed with stories, sarcasm, and a few questionable dance moves from a Tina Turner musical. Cam belt updates and holiday recovery quickly evolves into a deep dive into the British Franchise Association Conference, exploring how networking, supplier relationships, and human connection keep the franchising world spinning.They do get stuck into music though covering AI-generated music to the future of content and creativity. The duo debate whether machines can really groove, why face-to-face beats feed-to-feed, and how visuals can transform storytelling. It’s a blend of business insight, creative reflection, and musical chaos — proving once again that franchising isn’t just about systems; it’s about people, rhythm, and keeping the lights on when AI takes over the stage.🎵 Featuring:BFA Conference highlights and networking wisdomThe rise (and rhythm) of AI in music and businessLessons from supplier partnerships and creative projectsA surprisingly emotional take on Tina TurnerTRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Numb by Sleep Theory :https://open.spotify.com/track/4aoQieyuKhiKwgukgJTg6n?si=17a6670b2810495cBen - Reign of Darkness by Thy Art Is Murder:https://open.spotify.com/track/7eDtl2KToh99gXNRRfuY9l?si=191ba0f78385459cBEN's LINKS:Science Book:https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1789294800/ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_EPPKXY89D7RPW1B74PM8

This week, Ben and Ed zigzag through a wonderfully odd mix of topics from the absurdity of customer service to the mysterious logic of daylight savings time. They chat about conquering public speaking fears, why sleep might just be the ultimate business hack, and how planning beats panic every time.Somewhere between tales of botched heists, a “bag of snakes” incident, and Ben’s 18-year milestone at Agency Express, the conversation drifts into the rhythms of music, business, and life...proving once again that good chats don’t always need a plan, just a decent brew and a sense of humour.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - Throne of Want by Cenobia https://open.spotify.com/track/3Hrdh8vuUbeCK6bFkd4HZX?si=c3a03b9f889c47b0Ed - Darker Still by Parkway Drivehttps://open.spotify.com/track/37O5phPvMfJZBIscgXlw4a?si=fa3507debb394f1f

From heated debates over waffles vs. pancakes to rants about customer service and reflections on getting older, this episode serves up a mix of humour, heart, and heavy riffs.The pair dive deep into the golden age of pop culture, crispy pancakes, dial tones, and the soundtracks that defined a generation. Expect talk of Limp Bizkit, iconic film tunes, and the surprising link between music, mental health, and franchising.Somehow (don’t ask how), the conversation also lands on lead generation, community building, and why nostalgia might just be the best marketing tool of all.Join us for a rollercoaster ride of chaos and advice.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - Making love to Morgan Wallen by Limp Bizkit https://open.spotify.com/track/7Ki2fTfTdDhqY2AY8muY5z?si=c877507e4c3c4d00Ed - Hi Ren by Ren https://open.spotify.com/track/0FLwYQoXvX8q5iRZnFX59u?si=35df1f5a54c04de8

In this episode, Ben and Ed take the scenic route from champagne debates and cam belt updates to the bigger stuff that really matters: how we think, feel, and function differently.They explore how neurodiversity shapes creativity, motivation, and the way we connect with others—especially in franchising. From training and recruitment to exhibitions and community, the conversation highlights why embracing different minds isn’t just good for people, it’s good for business.And of course, because it’s Ben and Ed, there’s a detour into ska music—its rebellious roots, cultural impact, and the way music can lift moods, build belonging, and keep us moving forward (even when the cam belt doesn’t).It’s thoughtful, funny, and just a little bit offbeat - exactly how we like it.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd - Destroy Me by President - https://open.spotify.com/track/5sdqwzp1kSHHqTFsyfhrZW?si=da701041a8cb49ffBen - Play Some Ska by Random Hand - https://open.spotify.com/track/61uH7qBeQqVGfnCK26OQ8L?si=776cfeb935ea4ebdBONUS TRACKMoonlighting by Maromaro - https://open.spotify.com/track/3wMyxsZByy8BDYSwv6ZvF0?si=91287ca0c1854468

Episode 10 is here! 🎉 Ed and Ben celebrate with stories of parenting chaos, kids’ bizarre food preferences, franchising milestones, and why community events like Franchise Socials matter. They also wander into music - chatting one-hit wonders, consistency, and how the grind of business mirrors the charts.Oh, and then there’s the Ben song. Don’t ask us to explain here - you’ll just have to listen. (Even Ben thinks Ed might have lost the plot with this one…)

We might only have two fans (hi Natalia, hi Imi), but that’s not stopping us. In this episode, Ben and Ed spiral through parenting woes, dodgy playlists, the questionable future of franchise exhibitions, and whether robots could actually do a better job than most salespeople.It’s part franchising chat, part tech speculation, part music nostalgia and entirely proof that having only two fans doesn’t mean we don’t have opinions. Strap in for a mix of jokes, tangents, and the occasional useful insight.p.s. Yes there is a Cam Belt updateTRACK OF THE WEEKEd - I'd Love to change the world by Ten Years After - https://open.spotify.com/track/7n3WO6ESKS1uCI9fgkGs66?si=904caeaf292740c8 Ben - Hypocrite by Alien Weaponry - https://open.spotify.com/track/5N4le0lqX1HNZ2OhnEae2k?si=8f4afdb129404f53

Ben and Ed jump from parenting snack wars to Coachella lineups, exploring how sound effects, music sampling, and business strategy all connect. From the Wilhelm Scream to supply chains, this episode proves the sum is always greater than the parts.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen:Violent Nature by I Prevailhttps://open.spotify.com/track/4wG1qk65XGBixayITnktbO?si=8fb8620f3bee44f9Ed:Closing Time by Jaya and the Cathttps://open.spotify.com/track/1fq3E88liHvERbof2fGtqP?si=df9f2a79c3b843d9BEN's LINKS:The "Amen Break"https://youtu.be/NkU4hsaFglU?si=wQ_jdOmTZptdyzc7Play with the playback speed. At 0.75 you've got hip hop classics. At 1.25 you've got DnB. At 1.5 it's a happy hardcore track.Amen Break examples:https://youtu.be/mXz_-AXBoT8?si=dkO1yqFP_WtGOLTBMetal comedian is Luke Severeid:https://youtu.be/oLMs-tU61rA?si=gyicpxchdcHLgC6T

In this episode Ben and Ed explore a variety of themes ranging from personal anecdotes to profound societal concerns. They discuss the implications of AI, the Fermi Paradox, and the potential future of civilisations, all while weaving in humour and cultural references. The dialogue reflects on the unpredictability of life, the nature of technology, and the mysteries of the universe, creating a thought-provoking and entertaining experience for listeners. They also delve into the world of music, discussing iconic albums, the surprising success of pop punk and female artists, the evolution of new metal, and modern collaborations in the music industry. They also share personal anecdotes and life lessons, emphasising the importance of seizing opportunities and exploring new experiences.TRACK OF THE WEEKEd End of you by Poppy, Amy Lee & Courtney Laplante: https://open.spotify.com/track/0PsFsv5xUyX06ZhIEtFkeA?si=c4621c8b30374f5fBen Troubled by Bedford:https://open.spotify.com/track/0VXcSeYdipJNDqPBLABjh8?si=77ef67b94f2e448c

In this episode of The Mic Drop, hosts Ben Brookes and Ed Purnell discuss their recent experiences, including Ed's travels across Europe and the impact of age on hangovers. They delve into the art of drinking, share their favourite music, and reflect on the importance of living life to the fullest. The conversation highlights how music can enhance experiences and the significance of pursuing one's passions. They also share their 'Track of the Week' and conclude with personal reflections on life lessons learned through travel and experiences.

Ed and Ben discuss various personal anecdotes, the importance of consistency in habits, reflections on music and culture, the role of education in career paths, and insights into interview techniques and recruitment. They also explore the significance of physical connection in relationships and share their music preferences, culminating in a discussion about the impact of small changes in life and work.

In this episode, Ed Purnell and Ben Brookes engage in a lively discussion that spans various topics, including the Elite Franchise 100 judging process, the quirky trend of sausage vending machines in Germany, and the challenges of ticket scalping in the music industry. They explore the implications of dynamic pricing and bots on ticket sales, share their tracks of the week, and reflect on the importance of structure in business and being present in the moment. The conversation is filled with humor, anecdotes, and insightful commentary on the intersection of music and business.

Ben and Ed discuss the ups and downs of parenting, the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne following his passing, and the impact of the Osbournes on his career. They explore the evolution of heavy metal, the recent Coldplay controversy, and the blurred lines between personal and professional life in today's society. The conversation also touches on the potential of AI in music and concludes with mic drop moments about the importance of rest and the idea that it's never too late to start again.Track of the week:Ed - Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne : https://open.spotify.com/track/7ACxUo21jtTHzy7ZEV56vU?si=5a7844de47994d8eBen - Mama, I'm Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne: https://open.spotify.com/track/0S3gpZzlT9Hb7CCSV2owX7?si=90f1e3a6da9a4d73

In this episode, Ben and Ed explore various topics ranging from the intersection of music and franchising to the importance of political engagement among youth. They discuss the implications of drilling into ancient ice, the significance of understanding franchisee motivations, and the challenges of attracting younger generations to the franchising industry. The conversation also touches on personal reflections, the Peter Principle in business, and the importance of learning from failures. Additionally, they share their tracks of the week, highlighting nostalgic pop punk and a new masked band called President.TRACK OF THE WEEKBen - In the name of the father by President - https://open.spotify.com/track/3xQSG1eYo06kXI3JkPKllf?si=70eeaa4d77c54023Ed - The Separation of Church and Skate by NoFX - https://open.spotify.com/track/6TLeWFWcnGO84nNvI0HSmA?si=d7e534d8e22d46d8

Mic check, 1, 2….. is this thing on?Join Ed and Ben, two self-confessed extrovert introverts who connected via the world of franchising, for a directionless meander through music, business format franchising, and general waffle.   This week we introduce the Mic Drop – a brand-new podcast promising no editing, no filtering, and no obvious direction, but quality chat guaranteed*. We share our tracks of the week, talk about the need for authenticity in business and discuss how podcasts are changing the way we reach people. So, put your hands in the air, throw up your devil horns, or simply sit back and relax whilst we fill your eardrums with aural delights. *no warranty of chat quality implied or givenTrack of the week:Ed - No Believer by Sakoya : https://open.spotify.com/track/0vtixSxhUg9lZswJQib8Dh?si=0c0fb7cbe33b4afdBen - Program by Chase & Status: https://open.spotify.com/track/5xI6XC2Qc3eez4lbbIMZzF?si=a07fc23b12a04898