Swim Against The Tide

In this conversation, Ollie Raison, Co-Founder of F1 Arcade, shares his journey from a DJ and comedian to a pioneer in the social entertainment industry. He discusses the evolution of competitive socialising, the birth of his unique concepts like WiffWaff Brothers and Bounce, and the importance of keeping your audience engaged and entertained - emphasising the significance of creating enjoyable ex...

In this episode of the podcast we meet Ollie Marshall, MD of Maplin Electronics, as he shares his journey from studying computer science to leading the well-known electronics brand.  He discusses how he has managed the brand from a high street retailer to direct-to-consumer seller, navigating big change to their business model during COVID-19.  Ollie Marshall discusses the positive integration of...

In this conversation, Paul Turton, CEO of Pact Coffee, shares his journey from corporate roles to leading a smaller, but much more agile coffee business. He discusses the success of Pact Coffee in the specialty coffee market, emphasizing their technological advantages, customer-centric approach, ethical sourcing practices and their unending commitment to direct trade. Paul emphasizes the significa...

This conversation explores the 60-year history and evolution of Linwoods Health Foods, founded by John Woods, who shares his journey from a small family business to a health food powerhouse and passing over the baton to his son Patrick. The discussion highlights the importance of innovation and sustainability in the business, as well as the transition of leadership to the next generation. The conv...

In this episode we meet Will Lee, CEO of Clearpoint Recycling and he shares his journey from working in the car industry to founding his own recycling business. He discusses the challenges and opportunities in the recycling market, the impact of changes in China on the global industry, and his reflections on success and business philosophy. Will emphasises the importance of passion over profit and...

This week, Steve Henry meets Sam Flintham-Ward, a fractional marketing director with a diverse career spanning many industries, including hospitality, events, and marketing for brands like Sipsmith and plant-based food company This. Sam shares insights from his journey, stressing the importance of adaptability, stakeholder management, and the evolving landscape of marketing in the food and beverag...

In this episode, Anthony Karibian discusses his entrepreneurial journey, sharing his experiences from founding Euroffice to launching bOnline, the amazing provider of phone and digital services for small businesses. He discusses the challenges faced during the dot-com bubble, the importance of focusing on small businesses, and the innovations in VoIP technology and AI integration that are transfor...

In this episode we meet Michael Edwards, Managing Director of Explore Worldwide, the small group adventure brand. He shares his journey in the travel industry, from professional flounderer (you'll hear why) to being involved with the evolution of sustainable and immersive travel experiences. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity, customer loyalty, and the challenges of navigating a competit...

In this engaging conversation, Steve Henry hosts Andrew Fishwick and Tom O'Toole, who, although unlikely bedfellows, share their entrepreneurial journeys in the hospitality and construction sectors and how they came together over a love of great coffee. They discuss the impact of COVID-19 on their respective industries, the importance of adapting to changing consumer behaviors, and the significanc...

In this conversation, James Wright shares his extensive experience in the drinks industry, detailing his journey from working with major brands like Red Bull and Corona to his current role as CEO at Wrexham Lager. He emphasises the importance of community engagement, the rich history of Wrexham Lager, and the strategic planning necessary for brand growth. He shares his  thoughts on how the success...

In this conversation, Neil Bartholomew, MD of Kcom's retail division, shares his journey from a working-class background in South Yorkshire to leading a telecommunications company. He discusses Kcom's rich history, its evolution in the broadband market, and the challenges it faces from larger competitors. Neil emphasises the importance of customer experience, innovation, and adaptability in a rapi...

In this conversation, Lucy Barbor shares her journey from working in media agencies with some of the World's biggest brands to recently launching her own consultancy - We Are Masterplan. She emphasises the importance of strategic thinking in businesses, the role of marketing as a real growth engine, and the differences between challenger brands and market leaders and how their position in the mark...

This week we meet Brad Cummings, the co-founder of Tiny Rebel Brewery. He shares his journey of building a successful craft beer brand in a competitive market from home brewing in the bedroom, to building one of the most successful beer brands on the market. He discusses his background of growing up in a big, noisy family, to the passion that drove him to start the brewery. He explains about the i...

In this conversation, Dom Dwight, Director of Strategy, Insight, Innovation and Diversification at Bettys and Taylors, shares his journey with taking the national treasure that is Yorkshire Tea to No.1 in the UK. He shares how his love of Leeds, post his university studies, and the local food scene saw him land at Yorkshire Tea's HQ in Harrogate over 14-years ago. In explaining how they got to "Le...

In this conversation, Narinder Khattoare shares his experience in the peer-to-peer lending market and his journey as the Chief Executive of a lending company. He discusses the unique aspects of their business model, such as lending against property, and the challenges they face in a competitive market. Narinder emphasises the importance of building trust and relationships with borrowers and invest...

Jason Howlett, the Global Chief Executive of GivEnergy, shares his story and the mission of the company. GivEnergy is a renewable energy company that focuses on energy storage and software solutions. They aim to make a difference by offering products that help the grid, maximise self-generation, and increase energy independence. The company is unique in its approach, prioritising data security and...

In this week's episode of Swim Against the Tide, we meet Alex Saint, co -founder of thriving travel brand Secret Escapes. He discusses his journey of building a successful luxury hotel booking platform, sharing insights into the unique business model that offers exclusive deals to its members, the challenges of navigating different European markets, and the importance of ensure your brand has an u...

Graham Beales, CEO of Hip Pop, a range of kombucha and healthy soft drinks, discusses his journey and the brand's success in the market. The conversation covers topics such as personal growth, the importance of enjoying the drink whilst also reaping health benefits, the changing consumer demand for healthier options, and the challenges of distribution. The brand aims to provide refreshing, flavour...