Secret Leaders

Timo Boldt's journey to turning Gousto into a billion-dollar company is a remarkable tale of resilience. Despite facing rejection on Dragons' Den, Timo founded Gousto in 2012 from his one-bedroom flat with a vision to revolutionize home cooking using technology and data. Today, the meal kit delivery service delivers over 1.5 million meals each month, showcasing significant growth potential in a ma...

In this episode, we dive into the unique business model of Sam Harris, a philosopher, neuroscientist, and best-selling author who’s redefining how to make millions—by charging nothing. We break down how Sam has built a thriving platform by offering his content for free, while giving his audience the option to support his work through voluntary contributions. Learn the psychology behind this bold s...

In this video, Spencer Matthews shares the life-changing experience of running 30 marathons in 30 days. He opens up about the intense physical and mental challenges he faced, revealing how pushing his body to the limit reshaped his mindset and transformed his life. More than just a personal challenge, Spencer reflects on how this feat has shifted people's perceptions of him—allowing him to inspire...

In this video, we break down what might just be Elon Musk's greatest week yet! From unveiling groundbreaking new products like the Tesla Cab and the futuristic Tesla Robot, to a jaw-dropping SpaceX launch where Musk helped to save stranded the astronauts!

In this gripping interview, former Financial Times editor Lionel Barber reveals the secrets behind billionaire Masayoshi Son and shares chilling details about his unforgettable encounter with Vladimir Putin at the Kremlin. Lionel offers exclusive insights from his new book 'Gambling Man,' diving into his time spent with Masa Son and recounting some of his most impactful interviews as editor of the...

In this episode, we dive into the stories of the ultra-wealthy who’ve quietly built empires and amassed fortunes, all while staying under the radar. From groundbreaking industries to niche businesses, these individuals have become some of the richest people in the world. Discover the incredible businesses they’ve built, the secrets to their success, and how they’ve managed to stay off the mainstre...

Imagine traveling the world with nothing but a backpack, turning your passion for discovery into a business empire, and selling it for $115 million.  That’s exactly what Tony Wheeler, co-founder of Lonely Planet, did.  In this captivating interview, Tony shares how he and his wife Maureen went from writing travel guides on kitchen tables to creating one of the most iconic travel brands in history....

In this episode, we’ll break down exactly how to set up a marketplace business in just 41 minutes.  You’ll learn what a marketplace business really is, key strategies to get it off the ground, and the roadblocks you're likely to face.  I’m sharing my personal journey of building a marketplace, the wins, the losses, and everything in between.  Whether you're thinking of starting your own or just cu...

In this exclusive interview, WeTransfer founder Damian Bradfield shares the story behind his 9-figure exit and breaks down how he built a brand that millions of people around the world trust every day.  Damian reveals the real strategies he used to scale WeTransfer from a simple idea to a global sensation—PLUS, he drops actionable tips you can use to build and sell your own brand. ——————— Sign up...

Today, we're diving into the latest controversy surrounding Mr Beast's new Lunchly product—a kid-focused meal kit that’s stirring up some serious discussions. As influencers turn their young fans into customers, are they crossing the line? Join entrepreneurs Dan Murray-Serter and Chris Donnelly as they dissect how Mr Beast, with his massive reach, is reshaping the food landscape for kids. Is this...

Nadhim Zahawi uncovers the secrets of working in government as he gives his hot take on Boris Johnson, the pandemic, and his feelings about the Partygate and Matt Hancock scandal! He also dives into the challenges of navigating Covid-19, sharing candid insights about the highs and lows of decision-making in a crisis. Zahawi reveals how his experience building a billion-dollar company played a cruc...

Alright, WTF is Oracle and why is it worth a massive $457 billion?  In this video, we dive into how Oracle became the backbone of the internet. Spoiler: 97% of companies would crumble without it. From powering your favourite apps to securing your data, Oracle is the silent force keeping the digital world running. But what even is it? Let’s break it down for you.  ________________ Sign up to Wise B...

In this episode, we sit down with Daniel Priestley, the guy who knows how to turn ideas into money. He’s dropping his ultimate playbook on how YOU can build a successful business and hit that first $10K – no fluff, just real talk.  Want to know how to make real money and crush it in the business world? This episode is packed with actionable tips, mindset hacks, and strategies that anyone can apply...

In this episode, Dan and ​⁠Chris share their rollercoaster 30+ year journey in the world of business. From wild, unexpected moments like making hires over drinks, to unforgettable experiences like meeting the Queen, and landing some of the world’s most prestigious luxury brands, including Bugatti. This episode is packed with jaw-dropping stories and valuable insights. Tune in for an inspiring conv...

Discover how entrepreneur Simon Squibb is taking the world by storm with his unique approach to business. With billions of views on TikTok and over a million YouTube subscribers, Simon is breaking all the rules by investing in total strangers, helping them achieve their dreams. In this episode, we dive into Simon’s inspiring mission, his strategy for generating viral content, and why he believes t...

We’re taking a short production break while we prepare for the next season, but while we’re preparing, we want your feedback on the show and what you want us to cover. Fill out this form to let us know what you want to hear from us on the next season of Secret Leaders and check us out on YouTube  Thank you for your suggestions and for listening 

What happens after that coveted exit? What does life look like for a founder who's achieved what so many others are striving for? Today, we're diving deep into that very question with Timothy Armoo, a serial entrepreneur who sold his influencer marketing company, Fanbytes, in a multi-million pound deal at the age of 27. But this isn't a story about how to build and sell a successful startup - it's...

In the world of entrepreneurship, we dream about the BIG EXIT.   We talk about mergers, acquisitions and IPOs…  But there's one exit strategy that's often whispered about Selling to private equity.  Today, we're pulling back the curtain on this mysterious world with someone who's not only been through it, but has come out the other side a fan. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications...

Dominic McGregor was riding high as the co-founder of Social Chain, a social media agency that exploded from scrappy startup to global player in just a few short years. But as the company grew, so did Dom's drinking problem - until it all came crashing down. In this conversation, Dom shares the inside story of his battle with addiction, from the red flags he ignored to the moment he hit rock botto...

Imagine building a company from the ground up, pouring your heart and soul into it for years, only to reach a point where you realise it's time to step aside as CEO.  How do you know when it's the right time? How do you navigate that transition while setting the company up for continued success? And what comes next for you as a founder? These are the crucial questions we're diving into today with...

The first time Christian Angermayer took psychedelics in 2014, it changed the trajectory of his life. Nearly a decade later, he has become one of the most influential voices in the world of biotech, crypto, and anti-aging. People look to him for guidance on the next big thing, they invest in his ventures hoping to be a part of something groundbreaking, and they listen to his bold ideas about pushi...

Andy Brown, a seasoned leadership coach, shares his journey as a founder of a once-thriving marketing agency. He reveals how the business's rapid growth and his own ambition led him down a path of loss of focus and personal burnout. As the company took on more clients and expanded its services, Andy found himself stretched thin, trying to be involved in every aspect of the business. His belief tha...

Scott Galloway, serial entrepreneur, NYU professor, and author of "The Algebra of Wealth," shares his hard-won insights on building lasting, meaningful wealth as a founder. Scott and Dan discuss the key components of his wealth-building philosophy: focus, stoicism, time, and diversification.  He dives deep into the practical strategies behind each pillar, sharing personal anecdotes and counterintu...

What does it take to bounce back from a business blunder that nearly costs you everything?  Ask Joel Primus, the Founder who went from a mortifying moment on Dragon's Den to a multi-million dollar exit - and then found himself on the brink of bankruptcy when a global pandemic hit. Joel takes us behind the scenes of ill-fated underwear launch that left him red-faced on national television and scram...

Discover the Secrets to Becoming "Unstressable" with Mo Gawdat and Alice Law Former Google X executive Mo Gawdat and stress management expert Alice Law share their revolutionary approach to thriving under pressure. Mo and Alice challenge the notion that stress is inevitable for success. They explore the far-reaching impacts of chronic stress, practical strategies for building resilience, and the t...