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Ambitious Minds
Jay Lawrence
67 episodes
2 weeks ago

The Podcast for Fellow Ambitious Minds!


Welcome to Ambitious Minds, where Jay uncovers the inspiring stories of relatable, ambitious individuals who are all looking to leave a mark in their industry - whether they’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching startups, or reinventing their careers.


Each episode covers key topics such as career growth, entrepreneurship, overcoming impostor syndrome, networking, personal branding, business strategy, and the relentless pursuit of success. Expect raw, relatable insights from rising stars and industry disruptors who are turning their passion into progress.


If you're an ambitious mind looking for career advice, business inspiration, or motivation to take the next step, I hope this show brings you some inspiration and relatability, and helps you see yourself in aspects of these stories.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Entrepreneurship
Business
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All content for Ambitious Minds is the property of Jay Lawrence and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.

The Podcast for Fellow Ambitious Minds!


Welcome to Ambitious Minds, where Jay uncovers the inspiring stories of relatable, ambitious individuals who are all looking to leave a mark in their industry - whether they’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching startups, or reinventing their careers.


Each episode covers key topics such as career growth, entrepreneurship, overcoming impostor syndrome, networking, personal branding, business strategy, and the relentless pursuit of success. Expect raw, relatable insights from rising stars and industry disruptors who are turning their passion into progress.


If you're an ambitious mind looking for career advice, business inspiration, or motivation to take the next step, I hope this show brings you some inspiration and relatability, and helps you see yourself in aspects of these stories.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Entrepreneurship
Business
Episodes (20/67)
Ambitious Minds
#66 – My Wife and I Built a Business Together – This Is How We Made It Work: Joe Fraher

Starting a business is hard.


Starting one with your spouse? That’s a whole different level of risk.


In this episode, I sit down with Joe Fraher, an architect who, alongside his wife Liz, built a boutique design and build firm in Central London, right in the middle of the 2008 financial crisis.


Joe shares the real story behind how they made it work: from opposite views on risk, to navigating financial pressure, managing a growing team, and raising a family at the same time. He opens up about going sober, leading through chaos, and the mindset it takes to grow something meaningful without losing your relationship, or yourself.


This is an honest conversation about ambition, business, marriage, and the messy parts in between.


  • Giving up alcohol to take control of his life again
  • Redefining success beyond money and titles
  • Teaching his children about wealth, risk, and responsibility
  • Balancing love, family, and business without losing either
  • And why the future of construction lies in digital manufacturing and AI


This is a raw and revealing conversation about what it really takes to build something meaningful, and the mindset shifts required to survive it.


00:00 Introduction to Risk-Taking

00:41 Starting the Business Journey

00:57 Architectural Services and Turnkey Solutions

02:08 Challenges and Growth in Architecture

03:29 Navigating Redundancy and Building a Business

07:52 Managing a Growing Team

09:14 The Importance of Risk and Ambition

11:08 The French Alps Project

15:15 Hiring and Team Dynamics

22:25 Education and Career Pathways

29:02 Client Relationships and Long-Term Projects

31:49 Liz's Role in the Business

32:14 The Importance of Listening to Clients

32:44 Emotional Investment in Projects

35:22 Client Profiling and Matching

37:55 Trust and Transparency in Business

38:34 Adapting to Economic Challenges

45:35 Leveraging AI in Business

52:32 Financial Education and Generational Wealth

01:02:55 Leveraging Good Debt

01:03:36 The Pitfalls of Bad Debt

01:05:02 Balancing Risk in Family and Business

01:06:23 Aligning Ambitions with Your Partner

01:09:36 The Future of Work and Personal Goals

01:13:32 Challenges of Entrepreneurship

01:14:44 The Impact of Government Policies on SMEs

01:25:59 Personal Habits for Success

01:30:42 Concluding Thoughts


Discover Joe and Fraher


Website - https://www.fraher.co/


Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/frahergroup/


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joseph-fraher


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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2 weeks ago
1 hour 30 minutes 52 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#65 – Burnout in High Achievers: The Hidden Cost of Ambition with Bradley Green

What does burnout look like for high achievers and ambitious creatives? Celebrity photographer Bradley Green shares his personal story of burnout, mental health, and the cost of relentless ambition.


Brad has built a life many dream of, travelling the world as a photographer capturing icons like Matthew McConaughey and Conor Benn. But behind the lens lies a deeper struggle — the mental and physical toll of pushing too hard for too long.


In this episode, we discuss:


  • The signs of burnout in high achievers
  • How to balance ambition with wellbeing
  • The impact of diet, sleep, and media consumption on performance
  • Why even the most successful need to slow down
  • Tools to build a sustainable work-life balance


This raw and honest conversation pulls back the curtain on the Instagram highlight reel, offering real-world advice for entrepreneurs, creatives, and anyone navigating the pressure of constant growth.




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3 weeks ago
1 hour 25 minutes 58 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#64 - The Brand Genius Behind Gymshark - Noel Mack

Sign up to my weekly newsletter Fuel Your Ambition, where I share insights to help you grow your money, business, or career: https://fuelyourambition.substack.com/


In this episode, I sit down with Noel Mack, the Chief Brand Officer at Gymshark, to understand what it takes to build one of the UK’s biggest brands.


Noel offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at how Gymshark has evolved from a scrappy e-commerce startup into a global powerhouse, with physical stores, millions of loyal customers, and a brand identity built on community, authenticity, and relentless ambition.


We explore what it really means to be a Chief Brand Officer, and how Noel’s role is rooted in creating emotional connection, building culture, and obsessing over the customer journey.


Noel also opens up about his unconventional path to the role, his drive to keep growing, and how staying humble and hungry fuels his success. This conversation is just as much about mindset as it is about marketing.


00:34 Defining the Chief Brand Officer Role

01:06 Emotional Connection and Customer Experience

02:18 Community Engagement and Product Development

06:53 The Journey to Gymshark

09:07 Maintaining Core Values

11:47 Customer Obsession and Feedback

19:41 Personal Reflections and Career Path

30:01 Humble Beginnings

31:27 Gym Shark's Work Ethic

34:03 Expanding to Physical Stores

41:09 Ambition and Personal Drive

44:10 Balancing Ambition and Overcommitment

48:42 Future Goals and Personal Ambitions

54:51 Conclusion and Final Thoughts


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 month ago
54 minutes 55 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#63 - How Great Mentorship Can Help You Fulfil Your Potential - Mitch Hahn & Mark Norden

In this episode, Mitch returns for his second appearance on the podcast, but this time, we’re also joined by his mentor and boss, Mark, to get the full story. In the first episode, Mitch shared how Mark played a pivotal role in his career growth. Now, we hear Mark's version of events, offering a unique perspective on mentorship, ambition, and business growth.


Mitch and Mark discuss the key elements of their business success, from strategic planning and setting goals to navigating challenges and leveraging mentorship.


They explore how they transformed a small accounting firm into a thriving business with 77 employees, all while maintaining a focus on personal growth and leadership. Plus, they discuss how spiritual practices like meditation have helped shape their leadership styles and fostered a purpose-driven approach to business.


00:00 Introduction

02:03 The Early Years

04:38 Mark's Journey into Accountancy

07:19 Mitch's Evolution in the Company

13:29 Systemising the Business for Growth

18:36 The Role of Mentorship and Trust

27:05 Scaling the Business and Setting Goals

37:23 Discussing Departure from Dens

38:18 Lockdown Challenges and Learnings

40:30 Transition to CEO Role

44:05 Leadership Styles and Decision Making

51:55 Spirituality and Meditation in Business

56:57 Ambition and Purpose

01:02:17 Supporting Neurodivergent Entrepreneurs

01:04:37 Reflecting on Mentorship and Growth

01:12:04 Concluding Thoughts and Future Goals


Discover Nordens and Mitch


Website - www.nordens.co.uk


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/company/nordens-chartered-accountants-&-business-advisers/


Follow Mitch on LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/mitchhahn/


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 month ago
1 hour 17 minutes 16 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#62 - Investment Mistakes, the UK's Wealth Crisis, and the Exciting Future of Biotechnology with Andrew Craig

Andrew Craig returns for his second appearance on the podcast, and in this episode, we delve into why so many people make investment mistakes—or choose not to invest at all. We also explore the UK’s wealth crisis, discussing its causes and potential solutions. Andrew shares insights from his latest book Our Future Is Biotech, revealing the groundbreaking scientific advancements that could lead to healthier, longer lives.


Join us as we discuss the role of financial literacy, the biotech revolution, and the power of compounding in creating lasting personal and financial growth.


00:00 The UK's Wealth Crisis: An Overview

00:25 The Biotech Revolution: A New Era

01:06 The Cash ISA Dilemma

01:45 The Impact of Financial Journalism

03:37 The Economic Consequences of Poor Investment

06:57 The Global Wealth Disparity

13:31 The Role of Technology in Wealth Creation

19:56 The Importance of Financial Literacy

32:45 Healthy Eating Habits from Childhood

33:20 Economic Growth and Wealth Creation

34:46 Reflecting on the 1970s Economy

36:54 The Future of Biotech

47:44 Gene Editing and CRISPR Technology

52:08 The Rise of Autism and ADHD

58:45 The Complexity of Human Biology

01:04:55 Discussing Chris Hemsworth and Free Solo

01:05:09 The Importance of Visualization in Extreme Sports

01:05:43 Pushing the Frontiers of Human Capability

01:06:53 The Power of Compounding and Consistency

01:08:49 Exciting Advances in Microbiome and Bioremediation

01:10:05 The Miracles of Precision Medicine

01:12:49 The Abundance of Modern Life

01:15:40 The Importance of Reading and Continuous Learning

01:18:49 The Impact of Podcasts on Personal Growth

01:22:29 Economic Models and Government Intervention

01:26:58 Concluding Thoughts and Reflections


Discover Andrew


Website - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/


YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCME6xVzdcA7q_RfhRaRIkPA


LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcraigpef/?originalSubdomain=uk


Books - https://plainenglishfinance.co.uk/books


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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1 month ago
1 hour 27 minutes 19 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#61 – Building The Silent Disco Company with Toby Burns

What if you could turn a teenage side hustle into a company that runs over 4,000 events a year, without raising a penny of external funding?


In this episode, I'm joined by Toby Burns, founder of The Silent Disco Company - the UK’s leading provider of silent disco infrastructure for parties, weddings, festivals, and corporate events.


Toby shares how he went from entertaining kids at birthday parties to DJing luxury events, and ultimately scaling a business that’s redefining how people experience music and nightlife.


He breaks down the realities of self-funding a company, the importance of sales over branding, and how AI is helping streamline his operations today.


We also dive into lessons on hiring, managing burnout, investing in property, and why every entrepreneur should think about building a business to sell; even if they never plan to.


00:00 Introduction to the Silent Disco Company

01:02 The Journey of Toby Burns

02:51 Innovating in the Event Industry

04:45 The Importance of Sales and Innovation

07:34 Balancing Work and Personal Life

15:00 The Role of Education and AI

24:53 Navigating Challenges and Opportunities

36:16 Always Be Hiring: The Entrepreneur's Mindset

36:41 Balancing Hands-On Work and Leveraged Work

38:05 The Impact of Government Policies on Entrepreneurship

38:40 AI and Automation in Business

39:17 The Burden of Taxes on Business Owners

46:57 The Importance of Owning Assets

53:27 Building a Business to Sell

55:16 The Future of AI and Education

01:00:20 The Silent Disco Experience

01:12:10 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs


Follow Toby


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/toby-burns


Website - https://thesilentdiscocompany.co.uk/


YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@TheEventrepreneur


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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2 months ago
1 hour 15 minutes 45 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#60 – How To Negotiate With Confidence - Nicole Soames

Think negotiation is all about being tough? Think again. In this episode, I sit down once again with bestselling author and top sales coach Nicole Soames to uncover the underrated skills that actually win negotiations - from emotional intelligence to strategic silence.


Whether you're asking for a raise, closing a deal, or navigating a difficult conversation, this episode gives you the mindset, tools, and strategies to walk in with confidence and walk out with results. Nicole shares proven techniques used by professionals to consistently create win-win outcomes - including real-world examples, role-playing advice, and preparation tips that actually work.


Back by popular demand, this is Nicole’s second appearance on the podcast. If you haven’t heard our first episode together, check out Episode 43


00:00 Introduction

01:02 Key Traits of a Good Negotiator

02:48 Understanding the Negotiation Process

04:15 Emotional Aspects of Negotiation

09:40 Preparation for Negotiation

15:47 Strategies and Tactics in Negotiation

35:53 Practicing Negotiation Skills

37:40 The Importance of Practice in Negotiation

38:09 Role Playing and Preparation Techniques

39:52 Everyday Negotiation Opportunities

40:57 Delegation as a Form of Negotiation

44:38 Negotiating Salaries and Pay Rises

51:50 Strategies for Job Offer Negotiations

01:04:11 Emotional Intelligence in Negotiation

01:06:50 Conclusion and Next Steps


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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2 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes 48 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#59 - I Woke Up in Rehab at 15 – 10 Years Later I’d Built a Multi-Million Pound Business - Josh White

Josh White, CEO and Co-Founder of Cano Water, is on a mission to fight plastic pollution with a simple yet powerful idea: providing an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water using 100% recyclable aluminum cans. The goal is simple - to put the planet before profit and make sustainability a new benchmark in the drinks industry.


But Josh’s path to success hasn’t been easy. In this episode, he opens up about his struggles with addiction, ADHD, and being expelled from school, all as a teenager. Despite these setbacks, Josh managed to channel his addictive personality into something positive; building his business, raising his daughter, and helping others who are going through their own struggles.


Josh is one of the most humble, purpose-driven entrepreneurs I’ve had the pleasure of talking to. His commitment to putting others before himself and making a real difference in the world is genuinely inspiring.


00:00 Intro

01:16 Profit vs. Planet: The Harsh Realities of Business

07:33 Personal Battles: ADHD and Addiction as a Teenager

28:04 Finding Purpose: From DJing to Entrepreneurship

46:54 The Harsh Realities of Corporate Power

48:17 Creating a Global Brand

50:29 How You Source Water

56:40 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs with ADHD

01:04:49 The Importance of Mental Health Conversations

01:17:32 Fatherhood and Personal Growth

01:27:43 The Future of Work and Creativity

01:30:00 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Follow Josh


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/joshwhite2201


Cano Water - https://canowater.com/


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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2 months ago
1 hour 30 minutes 53 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#58 - How Understanding My ADHD Supercharged My Brain and Business - Xenia Muether

Xenia Muether is an entrepreneur who’s turned her ADHD diagnosis into a superpower for her business.


Leaving the corporate world behind, Xenia built her own niche marketing agency. She talks about the challenges she faced, from overcoming self-doubt to navigating the most difficult year for her business.


Xenia also opens up about her ADHD diagnosis in her 20s and how this helped her better understand her brain, tap into its strengths, and develop a leadership style that works for her. She discusses her strategies for managing ADHD and using it to her advantage in business.


Xenia also shares advice for companies looking to market the brand, including how understanding generational differences - especially for Gen Z and Gen Alpha - is key to successful marketing strategies. Plus, she discusses why having a clear target audience is crucial and how working with challenger and impact brands helped shape her approach.


00:00 Introduction 

01:03 Personal Background and Career Beginnings

01:45 Transition to London and Career Growth

03:19 Realising the Need for Change

05:01 Starting the First Agency

07:52 Expanding into New Markets

09:19 Working with Challenger and Impact Brands

12:30 Full-Service Marketing Strategies

14:16 Importance of Target Audience Analysis

19:18 Platform-Specific Marketing Approaches

22:43 The Rise of AI in Marketing

26:50 Generational Differences in Marketing

30:32 The Demand for Authenticity

37:55 Balancing Convenience and Privacy

39:52 Cultural Differences and Personal Reflections

41:11 Ambitions and Overcoming Barriers

46:19 Balancing Business Operations and Growth

46:38 Time Management Strategies

47:20 Delegation and Team Trust

49:51 ADHD Diagnosis and Impact

52:11 Harnessing ADHD as a Superpower

55:59 Challenges of ADHD in Daily Life

01:05:25 Navigating a Tough Business Year

01:08:06 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Imposter Syndrome

01:14:32 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

01:24:07 Future Ambitions and Business Growth


Follow Xenia


Wonderwork - https://www.wonderwork.digital/


Pink Orange - https://www.pink-orange.co.uk/


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/xenia-muether



Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3 months ago
1 hour 27 minutes 12 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#57 - Puresport CEO Reveals How They're Disrupting the Supplement Industry - Daniel Temm

Do you know what's really inside your supplements?


Daniel Temm is the CEO of Puresport, a leading supplement and hydration brand.


In this episode, Dan shares how his background in sports shaped his business and leadership mindset, the importance of community, and the brand's mission to combat quick fixes through quality and authenticity.


00:00 Trailer

01:11 Early Life and Sports Journey

04:02 Transition from Sports to Business

09:38 Founding Pure Sport and Early Challenges

10:24 The Impact of COVID-19 on Pure Sport

12:44 Building a Brand and Team Dynamics

15:07 The Importance of Sports in Business

23:45 Pure Sport's Core Values and Mission

26:02 The Rise of Pure Sport Run Clubs

32:15 Authenticity in Marketing and Product Development

41:58 Transitioning from Player to Coach

42:24 Empowering the Team

42:53 Self-Awareness and Delegation

45:14 Future Goals for Pure Sport

46:31 Building a Brand with Emotional Connection

52:59 Innovating with Creatine Gummies

57:19 Personal Ambitions and Impact

59:17 The Importance of Social Connection

01:01:59 Global Aspirations for Pure Sport

01:07:06 The Role of Personality in Leadership

01:10:38 Encouraging Health and Wellness

01:14:18 Authentic Community Building

01:16:46 Conclusion and Future Outlook


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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3 months ago
1 hour 17 minutes 51 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#56 - The Realities of Running a 9-Figure Business: The Highs and Lows of Being a CEO and Entrepreneur

Is being a CEO really worth the stress?


In this week's episode, I'm joined by Mark McDermott, Co-Founder and CEO of ScreenCloud, a thriving SaaS business generating 8 figures in annual recurring revenue (ARR). We discuss the realities of being a CEO and entrepreneur, exploring the real challenges, emotional highs, and personal growth that come with leading a successful business.


The conversation covers crucial topics such as the loneliness of leadership, handling criticism, and the pressure of maintaining a strong facade for both your team and customers.


We also explore the reality of raising funds, the moments that tested his resilience, and the personal strategies used to cope with stress and maintain mental health. From the emotional toll of investor pitching to the challenges and rewards of driving innovation in the digital signage industry, this episode offers an honest look at the day-to-day demands of being leading a successful business.


Ideal for:


  • Aspiring CEOs and entrepreneurs
  • Business leaders scaling their companies
  • Innovators in the SaaS and tech industries
  • Individuals interested in resilience, mental health, and leadership
  • Those seeking to understand the day-to-day realities of running a successful business


Timestamps:


01:32 The Loneliness of Leadership

07:10 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs

14:30 The CEO's Role

20:03 The Importance of In-Person Interaction

25:45 Adapting to Remote Work and AI

29:14 The Importance of Clock Speed in Business

34:46 The Origin Story of ScreenCloud

37:30 Challenges and Solutions in Digital Signage

48:50 Expanding to the US Market

53:43 Raising Angel Investment

57:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt and Pressure

01:01:37 The Journey of Mastery

01:03:40 Fitness and Personal Growth

01:09:42 Balancing Work and Personal Life

01:11:25 Mental Health and Coping Strategies

01:17:14 Future Plans and Mentorship


Discover Mark


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mhmcdermott


ScreenCloud - https://screencloud.com


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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4 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes 31 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#55 - Dodge Woodall: What Nobody Teaches You About Building a Business

Dodge Woodall is a serial entrepreneur, host of Eventful Lives podcast, and the founder of the Bournemouth 7s Festival, a 30,000-attendee event dubbed the “Glastonbury of sport.”


From selling club tickets at age 10 to remortgaging his family home to fund a vision no one believed in, Dodge shares raw, unfiltered lessons on starting, scaling, and surviving as a founder in the events industry.


00:00 Trailer

02:27 Growing Up in a Pub & Learning Business Early

07:21 How Uni Sparked a Club Promotion Empire

16:49 The Birth of Bournemouth 7s Festival

19:20 Behind the Scenes: The Reality of Festival Building

27:41 Leadership Style: Freedom, Trust & Gen Z

31:42 Selling Viper 10: Lessons from Building a Brand

36:42 Remortgaging the House: Betting It All on a Dream

43:38 Burnout in the Nightlife Business

44:27 Scaling a 7-Figure Festival Business

45:38 Straight Talk: Advice for Aspiring Founders

47:23 How AI is Reshaping the Entrepreneurial Landscape

48:25 Freedom over Money: Building a Business That Fits Your Life

51:27 The Realities of the UK Economy for Entrepreneurs

59:41 What’s Happening to British Culture?

01:00:35 Surviving the Pandemic as a Business Owner

01:02:25 Taxes, Debt & the Pressure of Entrepreneurship

01:20:29 Leaving a Legacy & Building with Purpose

01:23:40 Final Thoughts & Reflections


Follow Dodge


Website - https://dodgewoodall.com 

LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/dodgewoodall 

Podcast - https://open.spotify.com/show/2pOyCAyEi3nZq6rd77FbP9?si=344383d6fdcf42e6 

YouTube - https://youtube.com/c/DodgeWoodall 

Links: https://linktr.ee/DodgeWoodall 


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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4 months ago
1 hour 24 minutes 17 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#54 – EXPLAINED: Gary Stevenson vs Daniel Priestley on Diary of a CEO | Breaking Down Wealth Inequality

In this episode, two finance professionals discuss the viral debate between Daniel Priestley and Gary Stevenson on The Diary of a CEO.


With wealth inequality at the forefront of global discourse, is a wealth tax really practical? We unpack and explain their clashing views on economic freedom, taxation, and government policy.


We explore the most controversial solutions to narrowing the wealth gap and discuss some bold ideas such as a 100% inheritance tax, a land value tax, and taxing unrealised gains,


We also look at the impact of AI, globalisation, and property prices on the economic landscape—and what it all means for the future of wealth creation and distribution.


00:03 Debate Breakdown: Daniel Priestley vs. Gary Stevenson

01:39 Key Points of Agreement and Disagreement

04:05 Economic Freedom and Entrepreneurship

04:29 Wealth Inequality and Taxation

11:00 Global Economic Policies and Their Impact

17:05 Profit Shifting and Consumption Tax

32:07 Inheritance Tax and Wealth Distribution

35:46 Unlocking Unrealised Gains

36:34 100% Inheritance Tax and Its Implications

38:39 Property Prices and Housing Crisis

42:30 Why Gary is Wrong about the History of Property Ownership

44:05 The Truth About the UK Under High Taxation

49:41 Land Value Tax as a Solution

01:00:58 Quantitative Easing and Inequality



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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4 months ago
1 hour 10 minutes 16 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#53 - How Smart Entrepreneurs Are Using AI to Scale Faster!

Is AI Going to Disrupt Your Job or Help You Scale Your Business Faster? In this week’s episode, I’m joined by Phil Chell, founder and CEO of Hera Waterproofing and Chiron AI, to talk all things AI, entrepreneurship, business growth, and how tech is reshaping the way we build successful companies.


Phil shares what it really takes to build a profitable business in a saturated market. We explore how AI is helping founders reduce startup costs, streamline operations, and scale faster than ever. He breaks down the importance of cash flow management, how to land your first customer, and the value of leveraging your network to grow.


We also get into the personal side of entrepreneurship - dealing with stress, maintaining work-life balance, and learn what Phil risked to go from corporate life to the freedom of building something of his own.


00:00 Trailer

01:05 Freedom and Loneliness in Business

03:43 The Catalyst for Change: Leaving the Corporate World

05:17 Starting a New Business

08:56 Innovative Approaches in the Construction Industry

12:04 Integrating AI: Transforming Business Operations

21:38 Financial Literacy and Business Planning

25:28 Cash Flow Management: Why Cash Is King

32:44 Defining Success in Business

33:47 Investment and Growth

36:46 Valuing a Tech Business

37:54 Hiring and Company Culture

40:47 Personal Reflections on Success

46:38 Managing Work-Life Balance

52:41 Ambition and Mentorship

01:02:39 Final Thoughts and Advice


Discover Phil


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/philchell


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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5 months ago
1 hour 5 minutes 43 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#52 - How to KEEP More of Your Money - Smart Financial Moves for Millennials with Lawrence Bearman

Are you earning more but still feeling like you don't have any extra income in your bank account each month? We often assume that a bigger pay check guarantees financial security, but without the right strategy, lifestyle inflation, tax inefficiencies, and poor financial planning can quietly erode wealth.


This week, I'm joined by Lawrence Bearman, a financial advisor specialising in helping high-income Millennials keep more of their hard earned cash. We discuss how to manage wealth, optimise tax efficiency, and avoid the common money pitfalls high earners face.


Expect to learn:


02:03 Lifestyle Inflation: The Hidden Trap

03:15 Understanding Expenditure

04:42 The DIY Investor Dilemma

06:14 The Value of Financial Advice

13:29 Common Financial Challenges for High Earners

15:51 Tax Efficiency Strategies

18:57 Property Investment vs. Renting

23:05 The Emotional Side of Financial Planning

30:16 Finding Financial Balance

31:35 Avoiding Lifestyle Creep

33:39 End of Tax Year Planning

34:44 Understanding Pensions

39:41 Lawrence's Best Investment

45:26 Social Media for Financial Advice

49:59 The Role of AI in Financial Planning

55:04 Summary of Financial Tips


Discover Lawrence


LinkedIn - https://uk.linkedin.com/in/lawrence-bearman


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast



NOTE: The information provided in this podcast is for educational and informational purposes only and should not be considered financial, investment, or tax advice. Any opinions expressed are those of the guest and host and do not constitute recommendations for specific financial decisions.


You should always consult a qualified financial advisor before making any investment, tax, or financial planning decisions. Investments can rise and fall in value, and past performance is not indicative of future results.



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5 months ago
58 minutes 31 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#51 – Is the Corporate Career Dream Over? What Graduates Should Do Now with Peter Wood (The Graduate Guide)

This week, I sit down with Peter Wood, co-founder of The Graduate Guide, to discuss the biggest challenges facing university graduates in today’s job market.


With AI, automation, economic downturns, and the decline of traditional corporate careers, graduates are questioning whether a 9-to-5 job is still the best path.


We explore why the graduate job market is so challenging, how to stand out in a competitive job market, the importance of personal branding on LinkedIn, and how to leverage social media for career success.


Peter also shares his journey from history student to startup founder, offering insights on networking, breaking free from societal career norms, and finding opportunities beyond traditional corporate jobs.


If you're a student, recent graduate, or considering a career change, this episode will give you practical strategies to future-proof your career, land better job opportunities, and navigate today’s evolving job market.


00:00 Trailer

01:08 Challenges Facing Graduates

02:03 Navigating the Job Market

03:48 The Graduate Guide Mission

05:12 Corporate vs. Entrepreneurial Paths

08:04 Advice for Non-Traditional Career Paths

09:10 Building a Personal Brand

21:26 The Role of AI in Recruitment

35:56 The Power of Personal Branding

38:41 Building Your LinkedIn Presence

41:50 Balancing Career and Personal Life

45:47 Overcoming Social Pressure and Cringe

56:14 The Journey of Building a Business

01:00:20 Joining the Entrepreneurial Community



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5 months ago
1 hour 7 minutes 12 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#50 – How Launching a Podcast Taught Me to Think Like an Entrepreneur

In this 50th episode milestone, I’m pulling back the curtain on what I’ve learned from the last 12 months launching and growing this podcast - and how these lessons apply to starting any business.


From dealing with imposter syndrome to experiencing the benefits of consistency and building a personal brand. I’ll also share the costs of podcasting, why networking is a superpower, and the real struggle of staying focused when opportunities are everywhere.


Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a content creator, or just someone who wants to level up, these 10 lessons will save you time, money, and frustration as you build your own path to success.


Expect to learn:


00:00 Introduction

01:21 Celebrating 50 Episodes: A Year in Review

02:21 Lesson 1: The Importance of Getting Started

04:02 Lesson 2: Embrace Imperfection and Progress

10:02 Lesson 3: Consistency is Key

11:54 Lesson 4: Managing Work-Life Balance

17:17 Lesson 5: The Power of Networking

22:48 Lesson 6: Dealing With Imposter Syndrome

28:30 Lesson 7: Building Your Personal Brand

36:51 Lesson 8: The Challenge of Staying Focused

40:39 Defining Success and Ambition

50:41 Lesson 9: The Cost of Running a Podcast

58:53 Lesson 10: The Reality of Burnout

01:08:08 Final Thoughts and Key Takeaways


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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5 months ago
1 hour 11 minutes 17 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#49 - How to Grow & Exit a Successful Shopify Business – 5 Steps to Double Your Profit with Dan McClen

Dan is an e-commerce expert who turned his Shopify side hustle into a £5 million revenue business. In this episode, he reveals how he scaled his company, maximised profitability, and ultimately exited successfully.


The 5-Step Formula to Doubling Profit:

Most Shopify store owners focus on traffic and ads, but Dan shares his proven strategy for increasing profit margins - giving you more cash to reinvest in customer acquisition.


Accountant’s Guide to Running a Profitable Business:

With his finance background, Dan breaks down how to structure your business for sustainable growth, so you’re not just making sales—you’re building a long-term success story.


What Happens After a Successful Exit?

As an ambitious entrepreneur, what do you do after selling your business? Dan reflects on his journey and shares what he’d do differently if he started again.


Whether you're launching a store, scaling to six or seven figures, or planning your exit, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Don’t miss this masterclass in e-commerce success!


01:39 From Corporate Career to Entrepreneurship

02:07 Why Entrepreneurship?

03:16 Starting the Business

07:56 Scaling and Hiring

15:56 Understanding Unit Economics

19:00 5 Step Formula to Double Your Profit

47:33 Lessons Learned

48:29 The Waitlist Strategy

49:05 Balancing Profit and Growth

53:51 The Importance of Customer Experience

58:24 Resilience in Business

01:07:39 Future Ambitions and Projects


Discover Dan


Website - https://hellotmrw.io/


LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-mcclen


Double Your Profit Cheat Sheet - https://hellotmrw.io/pages/double-your-profit


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast




Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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6 months ago
1 hour 13 minutes 47 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#48 - The TRUTH about Entrepreneurship & Why Most Businesses FAIL - Anthony O'Brien, Managing Director of Profici

In this episode, entrepreneur Anthony O'Brien shares his experiences and challenges in building a successful business. He discusses the importance of surrounding yourself with a strong team, the concept of a fractional C-suite, and the struggles of managing cash flow and staff. He also talks about his personal motivations, the impact of ADHD on entrepreneurs, and the need for adaptability in business. Key takeaways include the value of hiring people better than oneself, the significance of failure as a learning tool, and balancing personal life with business demands.


01:31 The Concept of Fractional C-Suite

06:30 Delegation and Building The Perfect Team

08:23 ADHD and Entrepreneurship

16:14 “The Hardest Year Of My Life”

20:02 Common Issues in Growing Businesses

32:49 Revenue vs. Profit: The Age-Old Debate

33:39 The Entrepreneur's Ego and Revenue Obsession

36:40 Challenges of the Current Year

37:52 Adapting to Change: Pivot or Perish

39:04 The Role of Luck in Business Success

41:09 Balancing Business and Personal Life

52:01 The Fear of Failure as a Motivator


Discover Anthony


Website - https://profici.co.uk/


LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/anthony-obrien/


Podcast - https://profici.co.uk/profici-podcast/


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast




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6 months ago
1 hour 1 minute 9 seconds

Ambitious Minds
#47 - What Men Don’t Talk About (But Should) - Adam Smith, co-founder of A-Game and High Performance Coach

Adam is the co-founder of A-Game and coaches high achievers to improve performance across multiple areas of their lives.


Adam share his own journey, from hitting absolute rock bottom, to building a successful business and helping others to achieve the same.


In this conversation we discuss simple strategies to improve your personal performance and relationships. We explore why many men suffer in silence, and discuss how better communication is the answer, but most importantly, how to do this effectively! 


Adam also provides tips for how men can listen to their partners, something that many of us struggle with, which will lead to a happier and healthier relationship.


This was a pretty powerful episode and I’m so grateful to Adam for sharing his personal journey, but also providing some actionable takeaways for others to make small improvement in their lives.


Expect to hear:


03:49 Struggles with Validation and Comparison

08:34 Hitting Rock Bottom

14:04 Rebuilding and Finding Purpose

18:56 Starting a Business

26:25 The Power of Small Habits

30:14 Challenges and Growth in Business

41:10 Effective Communication

46:30 How To Listen To Your Partner For a Better Relationship

47:52 The 'Empowerment Dynamic'

55:54 The Power of Helpful Thoughts

01:03:15 Finding Purpose and Fulfilment

01:12:14 Practical Steps for Personal Growth


Discover Adam


Website - https://agameconsultancy.com/


LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-smith-high-performance-coach/


Instagram.- https://www.instagram.com/agameconsultancy/


Get In Touch


LinkedIn - www.linkedin.com/in/jay-lawrence-5a4b3357/


Website - ambitiousmindspodcast.com


Instagram - www.instagram.com/ambitiousmindspodcast



Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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6 months ago
1 hour 23 minutes 53 seconds

Ambitious Minds

The Podcast for Fellow Ambitious Minds!


Welcome to Ambitious Minds, where Jay uncovers the inspiring stories of relatable, ambitious individuals who are all looking to leave a mark in their industry - whether they’re climbing the corporate ladder, launching startups, or reinventing their careers.


Each episode covers key topics such as career growth, entrepreneurship, overcoming impostor syndrome, networking, personal branding, business strategy, and the relentless pursuit of success. Expect raw, relatable insights from rising stars and industry disruptors who are turning their passion into progress.


If you're an ambitious mind looking for career advice, business inspiration, or motivation to take the next step, I hope this show brings you some inspiration and relatability, and helps you see yourself in aspects of these stories.


Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.