Zeal Talk with Jane Slimming

In this episode, we catch up with Chris Rabbitt, founder of Meeow – the world’s first 24/7 video networking platform. Chris fills us in on the highs and lows of founding a business during the Covid-19 pandemic and how Meeow has become what it is today. We discuss angel investing, the importance of working in hospitality, and how it’s never easy to find the domain name you want!

In this episode, we have the pleasure of welcoming Alex Beardsley, Managing Director of ABL Business. She lifts the veil on commercial finance, offering a fresh perspective for SMEs navigating the complex world of money. Her take on the state of play post-2008 financial crisis is both eye-opening and informative, serving up motivation for business owners everywhere to ‘just do it.’ Alex shines a l...

In this episode, we unravel the remarkable story of Viv Parry, a woman whose journey from art school dropout to serial entrepreneur has more twists than a garden hose. Her sheer determination through struggle, unemployment, grief, and motherhood is at the same time candid, visceral, funny, and awe-inspiring. Punctuated by life lessons, Viv shares her unending faith in human decency, the importance...

And we're back! In this episode, we chat with Greg Caiger, Regional Director for Small Business Banking in the North for HSBC. Imparting over 18 years of wisdom, Greg reveals how his team helps small businesses think big and cross borders. So if you're a startup looking to borrow or a visionary with an idea worth sharing, this one's for you. We discuss the funds available exclusively t...

In this episode, Alex Craven, co-founder of The Data City shares the reality of jumping into business and what happens when selling doesn't quite go to plan. We discuss the importance of going big, giving back, and having a vision beyond money. Forget the illusion of control, set your direction, and hold on. Don't miss it!

In this episode we speak to founder and entrepreneur turned business sounding board Phil Fraser, who shares his wisdom from building one of the UK's leading online gaming sites. From risking it all to winning big, Phil's advice is the kick up the backside you've been waiting for. This a truly insightful pep talk for business owners everywhere. Spoiler alert; just f*****g do it. –  Phil Fraser...

This week, we speak to the endlessly enterprising Tracy Fletcher, who gives us the lowdown on leading teams and her eclectic career spanning banking and recruitment to fintech and charity. She reveals the real meaning of workplace culture, her female role models, and the power of cocking up. We also discuss Smart Works, and the inspiring work they do to help vulnerable women get back into work. Le...

We did say AMA, and you didn't disappoint. Jane fields your questions, from the deep to the ridiculous.  We discuss career highs, personal lows, life-changing lessons, and the laws of the biscuit cupboard. Don't miss it!

In this episode, Sarah Hex, Business Development Director at Arrow Global* shares the unexpected truth about funding. From getting investment ready to building a tribe around you as a key to success. We discuss the challenges that founders face and the importance of critics on your startup journey. Don’t miss it! *at the time of recording, Sarah worked for Mericia Asset Management.

In this episode, we speak to James Walker, founder of adult tricycle startup Jorvik Tricycles. He reveals how his father's struggle with Parkinson's disease led to a three-wheeled revival and a multi-million £ business. We discuss the overthinking trap and how failure paves the road to success. Turn it up!

And we’re back! In episode five of Zeal Talk, we chat with Lisa Lister, Founder of business growth consultancy Progress Marketing. She reveals the catalyst that kickstarted her journey, the risks of standing still, and the art of delegating. We discuss what to do when grenades hit the plan and the best-kept secret of having fun. Don’t miss it! Remember to send any thoughts, feedback, or questions...

In the fourth episode of Zeal Talk, Alex Willcocks, Co-founder of agency Engage introduces All in. Leeds, discussing the changing trends of the city's creative sector and nurturing the next generation of talent. He also reveals what it's like to live in the shadow of a famous pancake inventor and why he once listened to the same song for 7 hours. From breaking bones to tickling tortoises, and how...

In the third episode of Zeal Talk, Emma Hollis, Managing Director of Pyramid8 recruitment goes spiritual. From the laws of attraction and ghostly encounters to manifesting the people (and shoes) you need in your life. Back on earth, we discuss advice for budding entrepreneurs and the secret to acing an interview. From shamanic meditation and waking up laughing, to Stephen Spielberg's unlikely rout...

In the second episode of Zeal Talk, Simon Bollon, Managing Director of Boutique Media Communications opens up about the realities of being plugged into the rat race. And the cost of not switching off. He discusses the need to let go of control and play people in their best position, as well as reaching the ripe old age of 40. From selling fake aftershave in the playground to trading it all in to l...

In the first episode of Zeal Talk, Jane follows resounding advice from her extensive professional network not to make this podcast about her by appearing as the first guest on the show. She discusses the necessity to grow through new experiences, being fired as a kangaroo, breaking an entire bathroom, challenging inequality, and more.