From Butler to Business Owner, with Ryan Bransome

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Brendan Hall shares his experiences leading a team in the Clipper Round The World Yacht Race.  He discusses the challenges of managing a diverse group of sailors, the emotional realities of leadership, and the importance of consistency and autonomy in team dynamics. Brendan reflects on his early leadership challenges, the pressure of performance, and the critical lesson that a leader's mood can significantly impact the team's morale.  He discusses the challenges of leading under pressure during a dangerous sailing race, highlighting the need for transparency and psychological safety.  Brendan reflects on the emotional toll of leadership decisions and the lessons learned from navigating crises. He also offers insights on creating high-performing teams and the challenges of transitioning to life after such a significant achievement.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… The Clipper Round The World Yacht Race. Managing diverse motivations within a team. Emotional intelligence in leadership roles. Consistency in leadership. The influence a leader's mood can have on team performance. Empowering team members. Letting go of control. Transparency and open communication. Dealing with high-pressure situations. Creating psychological safety. Investing in team members' development. Life transitions after significant achievements.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:37 Clipper Yacht Race 04:51 Team Dynamics and Leadership Challenges 06:32 Realities of Leadership 09:03 Early Leadership Challenges 15:37 Consistency in Leadership 18:32 Team Autonomy 19:54 The Evolution of Leadership 24:37 Dealing with Pressure 30:28 Resilience in Crisis: A Leadership Test 36:24 Creating High-Performing Teams 37:31 Life After the Race  

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Ryan Bransome shares his unique journey from a local government employee to a professional butler, and eventually the founder of U-Crew.  He discusses the challenges he faced, including mental health struggles and the lessons learned from high net worth individuals.  Ryan reflects on the demanding nature of being a butler, the insights gained from working with successful people, and the decision to transition into entrepreneurship.  Ryan emphasises the importance of asking for support, and his aspirations for the future of U-Crew and beyond.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Insights from working as a butler for high net worth individuals. U-Crew and its aim to change the recruitment landscape. How funding is a significant challenge for startups. The importance of networking. Why asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. The importance of being present and enjoying the journey.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:54 From Local Government to Butler Life 06:44 Mental Health 09:55 The Transition to Butler Profession 11:51 Experiences in the Butler World 15:10 Lessons from High Net Worth Individuals 18:41 Risk, Reward, and Business Insights 22:08 Extreme Situations as a Butler 24:09 Deciding to Start U-Crew 26:38 Recruitment Challenges During COVID 31:22 The Funding Journey 37:44 Building a Network 43:28 Future Aspirations 45:31 Personal Reflections  

Summary On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Simon White shares his remarkable journey from leaving school at 16 to becoming a successful entrepreneur in the IT industry.  He discusses his early career, the challenges of building his company Enhance, and the pivotal moments that led to a management buyout.  Simon reflects on the growth of his business, historical moments such as the turning of the millennium, and the transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, emphasising the importance of legacy and team in his entrepreneurial journey.  Simon delves into the complexities of business transitions, particularly focusing on the journey of moving from ownership to a more advisory role.  They discuss the importance of embracing technology, especially AI, as a tool for growth and efficiency in business operations. The conversation also touches on happiness and fulfillment in one's career, emphasising the need for balance and the pursuit of passion in professional endeavors.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Simon White's journey into IT from a young age. Combining business and technology. Management buyouts. Strategic planning when growing a business. Transitioning to an Employee Ownership Trust. Surrounding yourself with capable people. The importance of mentorship. The long-term implications of business transitions. The importance of growth in business. Happiness and contentment are key to success. Finding the right time to step back from your business. Embracing technology such as to solve business problems. Personal fulfillment.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:09 Early Career and Entry into IT 05:54 Building Enhance and the Management Buyout 13:29 Challenges and Growth 21:01 Mentorship 27:07 The Transition to Employee Ownership Trust 34:32 Navigating Business Transitions 39:01 AI in Business 46:59 Embracing AI 50:40 Success and Happiness  

Summary On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed podcast, Lee Butler from Town & Country Communications shares his journey from initially not considering joining the family business to becoming a key player in its evolution. He discusses the challenges of working with family, the importance of adapting to industry changes, and the significance of building strong client relationships.  The conversation also touches on the vision for the future of the business and the significance of family relationships, particularly in the context of parenthood and personal success.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Lee Butler's initial journey into the family business. Balancing family dynamics with business relationships. The evolution of service in the communications sector. Adapting to technological changes. The importance of building strong client relationships. Transitioning ownership in a family business. The importance of having fun is essential in relationships and business. The value of patience.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Town & Country Communications 00:58 Lee's Journey into the Family Business 02:59 Family Dynamics in Business 06:04 Evolution of Town & Country's Services 08:49 Technological Changes 12:03 Surviving Market Shifts 14:55 Building Strong Client Relationships 21:02 Involving Siblings in the Business 23:50 Transitioning Business Ownership 27:09 Lessons from the Management Buyout Process 34:27 Balancing Roles and Responsibilities 37:50 Personal Growth 40:14 Flexibility and Balance 45:27 Vision for the Future 51:10 Quickfire Insights  

In this episode, Warren interviews Anders Hildebrand from Anglo American Oil Company, who shares his entrepreneurial journey from Sweden to the UK, the challenges of starting a business in a competitive market, and the evolution of his company into a family-run business.  Anders discusses the importance of customers, the dynamics of working with family, and the future of sustainable fuels in the industry. He emphasises the need for trust, delegation, and the significance of maintaining a passion for the business.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Anders business journey in the UK after moving from Sweden. The financial struggles of starting a business. How the support of family can be crucial in taking risks and making business decisions. Building relationships in the racing industry. The importance of customer satisfaction over profit. Flat organisational structures and how it promotes equality among employees. The rise of electric vehicles. Family dynamics. Creating a legacy for future generations within the family.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Anders 06:11 From Oil to Racing Fuels 12:50 Navigating Early Years 21:57 Family Dynamics in Business 32:20 From Entrepreneurial Spirit to Family Business 37:34 Sustainability and the Future of Fuels 43:48 Dreams and Aspirations  

In this episode, Warren Munson interviews Yvonne Guerineau, author of People In Their Element, about the complexities of communication and relationships in the workplace.  They explore the reasons behind communication breakdowns, the impact of assumptions and biases, and the importance of self-awareness.  The conversation also touches on leadership styles, the challenges of growing organisations, and the significance of consistency in communication.  Yvonne introduces the SAFER principles as a framework for understanding and improving communication dynamics. If you’re a business leader looking to improve your communication skills, you won’t want to miss this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast!   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers…   Assumptions we make when communicating with people. The importance of self-awareness. How to be consistent as a leader. Prioritising relationship-building as a leader. The SAFER model. Understanding biases. Understanding individual and group dynamics. How to create a supportive environment.     Chapters 00:00 Coming Up 00:30 Introduction 00:58 Understanding Miscommunication 02:54 Assumptions and Biases 06:12 Self-Understanding 09:08 Leadership Styles 12:01 The Impact of Growth on Communication 14:52 Consistency in Communication 17:49 Navigating New Leadership Dynamics 21:06 The SAFER Principles of Communication 29:14 Understanding Personality and Circumstances 30:13 Emotion in Business 35:15 Group Dynamics 38:37 Effective Managers 42:19 Differences in Relationships 47:05 Diverse Interactions 51:47 Communicating Future Plans  

On this special episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson reflects on the highlights of 2024, sharing snippets and insights from our favourite episodes.   The episode is divided into themes including entrepreneurship, family businesses, adventure and resilience, and employee to business ownership - showcasing the diverse businesses and experiences of the guests.    From Jeff Mostyn's entrepreneurial beginnings to the dynamics of family business with Jimmy’s Iced Coffee, these conversations highlight the challenges and triumphs faced by business leaders.    This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Insights on Entrepreneurship The Trials and Tribulations of Family Businesses Inspiring Stories of Adventure and Resilience Employee to Business Ownership Journeys    Chapters   00:00 Introduction 00:55 Entrepreneurial Insights from Jeff Mostyn 05:24 Matt Fleming's Ownership Story 10:32 Business Challenges with Rupert Holloway 14:47 The Importance of Reputation with Paul Meyer 18:54 Family Business with Liz Lean PR 22:36 Family Business Stories with Jimmy’s Iced Coffee 27:54 Preparing for the Atlantic Rowing Challenge 31:33 Cycling Continents with James Benson King 36:28 The Power of Kindness with Mark Darcy 42:06 Employee to Business Owner with Adam Lewis 45:28 Joint Leadership with Rubicon People 50:33 Resilience Under Pressure with Keith Reilly  

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson interviews James Benson King, also known as the Biking Viking on social media.  James shares his inspiring journey from overcoming a heart condition as a child, to embarking on adventurous cycling trips around the world.  He discusses the pivotal moments that led him to leave a successful career at JP Morgan to pursue a life of adventure.  Throughout the conversation, James emphasises the importance of resilience, ownership, and setting goals - drawing parallels between his experiences on the road and lessons applicable to business.  He also shares insights on how to bring adventure into everyday life and the significance of celebrating successes along the way.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Overcoming health conditions. How the fear of missing out can encourage adventure. Ways to deal with setbacks in life. How goals are crucial for success in business. Chunking tasks. The importance of embracing the journey. Having a positive mindset. Doing things that scare you. How planning for adventures can enhance the anticipation of joy. Finding joy in everyday life.   Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:24 Heart Condition 05:44 From Corporate to Adventure 10:34 Alaska to Argentina 17:16 Lessons from the Road 25:28 Ownership and Setting Goals 30:48 Celebrating Success and Adjusting to Reality 37:13 Adventure in Everyday Life 40:32 Future Adventures  

In this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, the team at Evolve, Warren Munson, David Mutton, and Becky Phillips, reflect on the key themes and changes in business throughout 2024.    They discuss the impact of AI, profitability challenges with the new budget, and the importance of employee engagement.    The conversation also covers insights for those looking to start a business, strategies for growth and leadership, and success stories from their Ignite, Thrive and Optimise services.   As they look ahead to 2025, they emphasise the need for strategic planning, self-care, and building trust within teams.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers…   AI in business. Profitability challenges. What to think about when starting a business. Dealing with hybrid working environments. Adapting to the next generation of employees. Success stories from clients. Reflection on past achievements. Setting realistic yet ambitious goals. Building teams. The importance of self-care.     Chapters   00:00 Reflecting on 2024 05:10 Starting a Business 10:02 Growth and Leadership 15:13 Success Stories 20:00 Planning for 2025 30:06 Looking Ahead 40:03 Advice for Business Leaders  

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Keith Reilly shares his remarkable journey with Alfatronix, one of the UK’s leading manufacturers in power converters and USB and wireless chargers. Keith talks about his transition from an employee to the managing director and owner.   He discusses the challenges faced during the financial crisis, the evolution of their products, and the importance of British manufacturing.   Keith discusses the emotional aspects of stepping back from day-to-day operations and the significance of defining success in terms of providing value to others.   This episode is invaluable for anyone in business, as Keith talks about the importance of being hands-on, succeeding under pressure, and how to improve employee relations.   This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers…   How to transform a lack of direction into success. The influence of Japan on the manufacturing industry. How beings hands-on can improve a company. How British manufacturing can compete on a global scale. The importance of mentorships. How to improve employee relations. The difficulties of managing by email. How crisis management can lead to unexpected success. The importance of delegation as a leader. How financial stability leads to personal growth and exploration.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction 01:50 Early Career with Alfatronix 05:08 Becoming Managing Director 10:41 Financial Crisis 13:37 Product Evolution 20:41 British Manufacturing 22:35 Leadership and Mentorship 27:51 Proud Moments and Dark Times 31:57 Leadership Challenges 39:14 Transitioning Leadership 52:49 Future Aspirations 01:00:19 Success in Business