Zeal Talk with Jane Slimming

In this episode, we speak to Paul Taylor, Director of Creative Space. Paul speaks to us about his unlikely journey from working in IT to becoming the business owner and investor he is today. We discuss living the dream, wearing Primark, and when to buy someone else a coffee.

In this episode, we speak to Kieran Innes, Founder of Stribe & Tootoot. Kieren talks to us about his passion for creating apps that empower the people that use them. We chat hard work, being tenacious, and beating the bullies with technology.

In this episode, we speak to Isaac Harmer, Co-founder & CEO of Everlink. Isaac talks to us about his journey from a sales environment to creating his own sonar-based technology company. We discuss naivety, learning from your mistakes, and the importance of bringing sales and tech together.

In this episode, we speak to Charlotte Nichols, Founder of Harvey & Hugo. Charlotte speaks to us about her long-standing PR business and the trials and tribulations of being a business owner in 2024. We discuss the media, challenging your opinions and wanting to re-write the law.

In this episode, we speak to Joe Armitage, Founder of KOMZZ. Joe talks to us about his journey from French graduate to setting up his communication consultancy, as well as his ambition for the future. We discuss living abroad, breaking the rules, and the importance of following your own path.

In this episode, we speak to Zandra Moore, CEO & Founder of Panintilligence. Zandra speaks to us about her first steps as a sales director and how her need for greater work/life balance led her to where she is today. We talk fish & chips, the value of data, and just how valuable a co-founder can be.

In this episode, we speak to Mark Walsh, CEO & Founder of Kwizzbit. Mark talks to us about his journey from fashion & journalism graduate to founder of a thriving tech platform and how going to the pub inspired a great idea. We discuss bingo, a love of magazines, and making the most of your network.

In this episode, we speak to Jodie Hill, Founder of Thrive Law. Jodie talks to us about her time as a barrister and then solicitor, and how a desire to change how law is practiced led to her starting a firm on her terms. We discuss silly wigs, being discovered on TikTok, and understanding your mental health.

In this episode, we speak to Catherine Thristan, Director of External Engagement at Leeds University Business School.  Catherine speaks to us about her time in Tokyo, Dublin & London and the path that led to her becoming a pivotal part of Leeds University’s Business School offering. We talk about speaking Japanese, working for the next generation, and the importance of the university experienc...

In this episode, we speak to John Readman, Founder of ASK BOSCO. John talks to us about his unusual journey from being a disgruntled Air Force pilot to setting up a business on a mission to make data work. We discuss Wakey Wines, a love of cycling, and aiming to do good with technology. External Links: Ride25 https://www.ride25.com/

In this episode, we speak to Jermaine Benjamin, Co-founder & Director of Boost Talent Jermaine speaks to us about his experience growing up in inner-city Leeds and how climbing the corporate ladder led him to start his own recruitment business with an ethical focus. We talk about playing “the game”, finding a role model, and being comfortable in your skin. External Links: Ahead Partnership htt...

In this episode, we speak to Success & Leadership Coach, Barbara Nixon. Barbara speaks to us about her role in removing the blocks that hold businesses back – no matter where they are in their journey.  We discuss picking the right coach, navigating the corporate maze and not liking your own voice.

In this episode, we speak to Andrew Cooper, Chief Executive of LeedsBID. Andrew talks to us about the important role he plays in improving Leeds city centre with LeedsBID – from street cleaning to animating public spaces. We talk Monopoly, keeping everyone happy, and what it takes for a city to thrive.

In this very special episode, we celebrate Zeal’s 14th birthday by speaking to some of our superstar members of staff. We talk about their time at Zeal, their very different journeys that lead them here and learn a few things we didn’t know in the process! A big thank you to Pam, Mike, Charlotte, Ben, Olivia, Simon & Annie for featuring on this episode.

In this very special episode, we celebrate Zeal’s 14th birthday by speaking to some of our superstar members of staff. We talk about their time at Zeal, their very different journeys that lead them here and learn a few things we didn’t know in the process! A big thank you to Emil, Jen, Jack, Ella, Becca & Emmanuel for featuring on this episode.

In this episode, we speak to Michael Crinnion, CEO of Mind Body Goals and creator of the Luma³ breathing companion. Michael speaks to us about his personal mental health journey and how it inspired him to release his inner inventor. We discuss managing anxiety, asking for help, and why it's so crucial that we all take time to breathe.

In this episode, we speak to Daniella Wainwright, Founder of Wainwright Consulting – a consulting firm that offers part-time Financial Director services. Daniella reveals how to get your company finances organised and the freedom that comes with setting up your own business. We also chat about binning the jargon, burying your head in the sand and the importance of leaving work before 7pm.

In this episode, we talk to Amy Pierechod – Lawyer & Corporate Partner at Gordon’s LLP. Amy talks to us about her specialism; working with Angel Investors, and what it's like to be thrown in the deep end with high-growth businesses. We discuss the importance of growth, finding the facts, and what to do when your dog is basically your child.

In this episode, we speak to Lisa Shepherd, Co-founder of The Biskery – a Leeds-based bakery specialising in branded and customised biscuits. Lisa talks to us about following your passion and trying to be patient when it comes to chasing your dreams. We also talk home comforts, scaling at your own pace, and the love that inspired it all.

In this episode, we speak to Anna Ashford, Head of ALT Legal – a law firm that strives to bring a modern and accessible approach to SMEs & founder-led businesses. Anna speaks to us about the necessity of good legal support and the importance of understanding the bigger picture in the world of law. We also talk flexible working, the need for more investment in female founders, and how we bring...

In this episode, we speak to George Fairhall, Founder & CEO of WAC – a powerful app that’s changing the face of hourly paid work through smart features that empower the user. George speaks to us about her experience of balancing higher education with hourly paid work and how key experiences inspired her to make the change she wanted to see in the world. In this laugh-out-loud episode, we talk...

In this episode, we speak to Sam Simpson, CEO of FounderCatalyst – which supports founders as they navigate through the early-stage fundraising process. A self-described “accidental entrepreneur” Sam talks us through the twists and turns that guided him from computer science graduate to angel investor and CEO of his own business. We discuss the investment landscape, the fear of making the same mis...

In this episode, we speak to Liam Wright, CEO & Founder of Exodus – a business on a mission to create renewable energy solutions for the social housing market. Liam talks to us about his unorthodox route into becoming a founder, from humble beginnings in the world of engineering to a growing interest in tech that sparked the trajectory he’s on today. Having overcome a serious illness himself,...

In this episode, we speak to Ian Todd, CEO & Founder of SalesLynk – which is the only SaaS sales solution for cyber security professionals. Ian speaks to us about his journey into the world of cyber security, from working in the sector in its infancy to starting his own business that bridges the gap between professionals and their clients. We discuss being relentless as a founder, how crucial...

In this episode, we talk tactics with Charlie Beech, professional rugby player & founder of Front Row Support. He talks business development, the importance of outreach, and how there is a life for athletes after sport. His unique perspective as both a professional athlete and business owner gives an insightful look into the world of sport and its relationship with the corporate world. Charlie...