S2 E41 Part 1 SEASON FINALE w/ Founder & CEO of FounderCatalyst, Sam Simpson

Join host Greg McCallum in part two of this enlightening episode of Founders Unplugged as he continues his conversation with Eisha Armstrong, co-founder and executive chair of Vecteris. Not seen Part One? Catch it here: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/gregory-mccallum/episodes/Mastering-Productization-Strategies-for-B2B-Service-Providers-w-Eisha-Armstrong---S3-E6-P1-e2nsa42 In this segment, they dive into the challenges and strategies of building a strong company culture in a remote world, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and adaptability. Eisha shares her insights on how to maintain team cohesion while working remotely, the significance of fostering a supportive environment, and the necessity of embracing flexibility in today’s work landscape. They also discuss the mindset shifts required for effective leadership and the role of technology in scaling services. Key Highlights: - The importance of building an inclusive company culture in a remote setting - Strategies for maintaining team connection and collaboration - How to navigate the challenges of remote work as a parent and business owner - The impact of mindset shifts on leadership effectiveness - Insights on productization and its role in business growth Whether you’re a business leader, entrepreneur, or simply interested in the evolving dynamics of remote work, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice. Don’t miss Eisha's unique insights and Greg's engaging questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone looking to thrive in the modern workplace. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 01:20 Building an Inclusive Culture Remotely 08:45 Navigating Remote Work as a Parent 15:30 Mindset Shifts for Effective Leadership 22:10 The Role of Technology in Scaling Services 30:00 Insights on Productization Thanks for watching part two of this conversation with Eisha. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time! Follow Eisha here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eishatierneyarmstrong/ Check out Vecteris here: https://www.vecteris.com/ Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg McCallum? Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Join host Greg McCallum in part one of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he converses with Eisha Armstrong, co-founder and executive chair of Vecteris. Dive into the world of productization and learn how B2B service companies can transform their offerings into scalable, standardized products.In this segment, Eisha shares her journey from corporate executive to entrepreneur, discussing the challenges and rewards of building a company focused on helping businesses productize their services. Gain insights into the mindset shifts required for successful productization and the importance of overcoming fear in business leadership.Key Highlights:The concept of productization and its benefits for B2B servicesEisha's transition from corporate life to entrepreneurshipThe role of fear in business decision-makingBuilding a company culture that aligns with personal valuesThe importance of self-reflection and personal growth for leadersWhether you're a service provider looking to scale, an entrepreneur seeking to build a more efficient business model, or simply curious about the intersection of services and products, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Eisha's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in business transformation.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:52 Defining Productization15:29 Mindset Shifts for Productization28:04 Books on Productization34:35 Building Company Culture46:33 Overcoming Fear in BusinessThanks for watching part one of this conversation with Eisha. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on part two. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!Follow Eisha here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eishatierneyarmstrong/Check out Vecteris here: https://www.vecteris.com/Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg McCallum?Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Join host Greg McCallum in part two of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he continues his conversation with Gareth Hawkins, investor and co-founder of BizCrunch. Dive deeper into the dynamic world of entrepreneurship through acquisition and gain insights into the due diligence process that can make or break a deal.In this segment, Gareth discusses the common pitfalls in due diligence, the importance of a well-structured data room, and how BizCrunch is preparing business owners for successful exits. Learn about the challenges of succession planning and the innovative solutions BizCrunch offers to streamline the acquisition process. Gareth also shares his experiences with BlockDojo, a Web3 incubator, and the exciting potential of blockchain technologies beyond cryptocurrencies and NFTs.Key Highlights:-The impact of due diligence on startup valuations-How BizCrunch helps businesses prepare for sale-The role of BlockDojo in nurturing Web3 startups-Insights into the angel investing landscape-Common mistakes founders make with investorsWhether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the world of business acquisitions, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Gareth's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of entrepreneurship.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction01:08 Due Diligence Pitfalls06:42 Preparing for Business Exits14:57 BlockDojo and Web3 Innovations29:37 Future of Blockchain Technologies37:43 Insights into Angel InvestingThanks for watching part two of this conversation with Gareth. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!Follow Gareth here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-hawkins/Check out Block Dojo here: https://blockdojo.io/and BizCrunch here: https://www.bizcrunch.co/Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Join host Greg McCallum in part one of this engaging episode of Founders Unplugged as he sits down with Gareth Hawkins, Investor, and co-founder of BizCrunch, to explore the dynamic world of entrepreneurship through acquisition. In this conversation, Gareth shares his journey from the metal fabrication industry to becoming a pivotal figure in the entrepreneurship space. Discover the intricacies of acquiring businesses, the challenges of succession planning, and the innovative solutions BizCrunch offers to streamline the acquisition process.Key Highlights:-Gareth's career evolution from sales director to co-founder of BizCrunch.-The concept of entrepreneurship through acquisition and its growing importance in the UK.-Challenges faced by small and medium businesses in succession planning and the potential economic impact.-The role of business schools and government schemes in promoting entrepreneurship through acquisition.-Insights into the dynamics of team building and the importance of diverse skill sets in successful ventures.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply curious about the world of business acquisitions, this episode offers valuable perspectives and practical advice. Don't miss Gareth's unique insights and Greg's thought-provoking questions that make this conversation a must-watch for anyone interested in the future of entrepreneurship.Subscribe to our channel for more episodes of Founders Unplugged and stay updated on the latest trends and insights from industry leaders.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction03:09 Gareth's Journey and Career Background06:14 Understanding Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition12:26 Challenges in the UK Market21:07 The Role of Business Education29:10 Turnaround Opportunities in Business36:51 Team Dynamics and LeadershipThanks for watching part one of this conversation with Gareth. Part two will be out in a few days. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you in Part Two!Follow Gareth here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gareth-hawkins/Check out Block Dojo here: https://blockdojo.io/and BizCrunch here: https://www.bizcrunch.co/Want a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇 https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Founders Unplugged: Part Two with Ollie Tiramuragan CollardCheck out part One here: https://youtu.be/qcGxs7IjnKIWelcome back to Part Two of this insightful episode of Founders Unplugged! Our host, Greg McCallum, continues his deep dive with the inspiring Ollie Tiramuragan Collard, an experienced entrepreneur and podcaster. In this segment, they explore more about Ollie's journey, the realities of entrepreneurship, and valuable insights for founders.Episode Breakdown and Chapters00:00 - Introduction02:00 - The Evolution of Founded and Grounded05:00 - The Challenges of Entrepreneurship08:00 - Mental Health and Support Systems12:00 - Collaboration Over Competition15:00 - Future Plans for Founded and Grounded18:00 - The Reality of Business Support22:00 - The Importance of Practical Advice25:00 - The Power of Consistency30:00 - Personal Stories and Struggles35:00 - The Intersection of Sales and Marketing40:00 - Advice for Aspiring Podcasters45:00 - Closing ThoughtsThank you for tuning in to Part Two of this enlightening episode of Founders Unplugged with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard. We hope you found this conversation as inspiring and insightful as we did. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you next time!Follow Ollie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivercollard/Check out the Founded and Grounded podcast hosted by Ollie here: https://www.enterpriseorchard.co.uk/podcastWant a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Founders Unplugged: Part One with Ollie Tiramuragan CollardWelcome to Part One of this exciting episode of Founders Unplugged! In this series, our charismatic host, Greg McCallum, dives deep into the journeys of inspiring entrepreneurs, uncovering the raw and unfiltered realities of startup life. This episode features the dynamic Ollie Tiramuragan Collard, a seasoned entrepreneur and podcaster with over 14 years of experience in the startup ecosystem.Episode Breakdown and Chapters00:00 - Introduction01:30 - Ollie's Background04:00 - Early Influences06:30 - The Podcasting Journey10:00 - The Power of Storytelling12:00 - Podcast Format and Evolution15:00 - Collaboration Over Competition18:00 - The Reality of Entrepreneurship20:00 - The Importance of Mental Health25:00 - Future Plans30:00 - Closing ThoughtsThank you for tuning in to Part One of this enlightening episode of Founders Unplugged with Ollie Tiramuragan Collard. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we dive even deeper into Ollie's insights and experiences. Don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to stay updated on future episodes. Your support means the world to us! Enjoy the episode and see you in Part Two!Follow Ollie here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivercollard/Check out the Founded and Grounded podcast hosted by Ollie here: https://www.enterpriseorchard.co.uk/podcastWant a 1 hour free advisory session with our host Greg Mccallum?Use the link on his LinkedIn profile.👇👇👇👇👇👇👇https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregmacuk/

Founders Unplugged - Part Two with Paul HetheringtonCheck out Part One of this conversation here: https://youtu.be/a6CNZariEVYWelcome to Part Two of this episode of Founders Unplugged! Join our host, Greg McCallum, as he continues his engaging conversation with Paul Hetherington, a seasoned Vistage Chair and non-executive director. Founders Unplugged is a podcast where we explore the journeys and insights of successful founders and business leaders, providing listeners with valuable lessons and inspiration.Episode Breakdown:00:00 - Introduction01:07 - Paul's Journey and Role at Vistage (Continued)05:36 - Offshore Solar and Legislative Changes (Continued)Paul delves deeper into his involvement with Offshore Solar Limited and the engineering challenges.14:05 - Understanding the Role of a Non-Executive Director (Continued)20:59 - Differences Between Consultants, Advisors, and NEDs (Continued)28:41 - The Loneliness of Leadership (Continued)33:16 - Helping Founders Solve Problems (Continued)43:20 - The Format of NED Roles (Continued)51:38 - Paul's Background and Career Journey59:51 - Transition from Sales to Customer Services1:12:23 - The Importance of Communication1:30:29 - Remote Work and Company Culture1:50:36 - Nurturing Entrepreneurial Spirit in Companies1:54:48 - Pursuing an MBA as an Adult LearnerThank you for tuning into Part Two of this insightful episode with Paul Hetherington on Founders Unplugged. We hope you enjoyed the conversation and gained valuable insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to the forefront. See you in the next episode!Follow Paul here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhetherington/Check out Vistage here: https://vistage.co.uk/

Founders Unplugged - Part One with Paul HetheringtonWelcome to Part One of this episode of Founders Unplugged! Join our host, Greg McCallum, as he sits down with Paul Hetherington, a seasoned Vistage Chair and non-executive director, to dive into the world of leadership, entrepreneurship, and business strategy. Founders Unplugged is a podcast where we explore the journeys and insights of successful founders and business leaders, providing listeners with valuable lessons and inspiration.Episode Breakdown:00:00 - Introduction01:07 - Walking Meetings and Personal Growth03:36 - Paul's Journey and Role at Vistage05:36 - Non-Executive Director Roles07:57 - Getting Involved with Vistage14:05 - Offshore Solar and Legislative Changes20:59 - Understanding the Role of a Non-Executive Director28:41 - Differences Between Consultants, Advisors, and NEDs33:16 - The Loneliness of Leadership43:20 - Helping Founders Solve Problems51:38 - The Format of NED RolesThank you for tuning into Part One of this engaging episode with Paul Hetherington on Founders Unplugged. Stay tuned for Part Two, where we continue our conversation and delve deeper into Paul's experiences and insights. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow entrepreneurs and business enthusiasts. Your support helps us bring more inspiring stories to the forefront. See you in the next episode!Follow Paul here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhetherington/Check out Vistage here: https://vistage.co.uk/

FounderCatalyst is delighted to offer a 10% discount for listeners of Founders Unplugged. Get your discount here: https://2ly.link/1zDIJWelcome to Founders Unplugged, the podcast where we dive deep into the minds of successful entrepreneurs and investors. In this episode, host Greg McCallum sits down with Phil McSweeney, a seasoned angel investor and startup advisor, to discuss his journey, insights, and advice for aspiring founders. Tune in to hear Phil's thoughts on the startup ecosystem, the importance of finding the right advisors, and the challenges of raising funds.In this second part of the conversation, we discuss:1:00:00 - Start of Part 2 - Switching gears to the startup ecosystem1:01:09 - The need for investment in deep tech and long-term projects1:03:41 - Hybrid approaches to funding deep tech1:07:10 - Timing and strategies for seeking VC money1:09:21 - Exceptions in early-stage VC funding1:10:20 - The "circus" of the startup ecosystem1:12:27 - Breaking down the circus: Founders, investors, and advisors1:20:42 - Navigating the startup circus1:25:01 - Educating founders and offering pro bono advice1:29:28 - What investors look for in exciting ideas1:31:36 - Examples of disruptive innovations and market trends1:35:08 - Avoiding "me too" ideas and focusing on future-shaping innovations1:37:03 - The state of AI investments1:39:45 - Phil's primary interest in MedTech1:43:43 - Selling health tech to the NHS1:47:05 - Key attributes to look for in an advisor1:53:27 - Understanding advisor motivations1:54:44 - Phil's next book project1:57:11 - Parting words and final thoughtsLearn more about Phil and his services at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-mcsweeney/Check out AngelThink and buy Phil's book here: https://angelthink.co/Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this content valuable!

FounderCatalyst is delighted to offer a 10% discount for listeners of Founders Unplugged. Get your discount here: https://2ly.link/1zDIJIn this episode of Founders Unplugged, we have the pleasure of sitting down with Phil McSweeney, an accomplished Angel Investor and the Founder of AngelThink. AngelThink is Phil's initiative aimed at helping more founders raise funds and succeed in their entrepreneurial journeys. Through his book, "Angel Think," and his mentorship, Phil shares valuable insights and strategies for navigating the investment landscape.In Part 1 of our conversation, we delve into Phil's background and explore the following key topics:1:04 - Phil McSweeney introduces himself2:23 - Phil's mission to help exceptional founders3:42 - What motivates Phil McSweeney5:00 - Non-executive director (NED) roles explained9:34 - Phil's favorite aspects of his work10:55 - Writing and promoting "Angel Think"12:47 - The importance of understanding how angels think17:11 - Challenges of cold outreach22:40 - Networking and building relationships27:06 - Building a network of investors30:49 - The importance of patience in fundraising33:28 - Challenges of finding the right networking events37:17 - Tips for asking for investor recommendations40:29 - The importance of social skills in networking44:21 - Identifying future leaders and CEOs48:10 - Key qualities of successful founders52:28 - The importance of team in early-stage startups56:25 - Leadership qualities and assembling a teamLearn more about Phil and his services at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-mcsweeney/Check out AngelThink and buy Phil's book here: https://angelthink.co/Part 2 is out on Wednesday!Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this content valuable!