In this delightful episode, we welcome Oli "The Choc" Dunn, a third-generation chocolatier who has transformed his family's traditional business into a modern chocolate experience. Oli shares how he initially resisted joining the family business but ultimately discovered his passion for chocolate artistry and creative presentation.
Key Takeaways:
- The Power of Play in Business: Oli explains how embracing his inner child and surrounding himself with nostalgic items like Batman memorabilia sparks his creativity in chocolate making.
- Follow Your Inspiration: One of Oli's most powerful philosophies is "never ignore inspiration" – whether it's creating chocolate sculptures based on a client's favorite music or pursuing creative impulses.
- Ready, Fire, Aim: Rather than waiting for perfect conditions, Oli advocates for taking action first and refining as you go, especially when transitioning creative skills to digital platforms.
- Finding Balance: Ollie discusses how he manages his health while working with chocolate daily (yes, he admits to being an unapologetic chocoholic!), and the importance of momentum in creative work.
- What Makes a Rich Life: Beyond financial success, Oli defines richness as finding purpose, experiencing love, and spreading happiness through his craft.
Ollie's Rich Life Recipe:
- Create an environment that sparks creativity
- Maintain momentum through disciplined routines
- Build genuine connections through authenticity
- Turn passion projects into opportunities
- Always "avoid the ordinary"
Notable Quote:
"Chocolate is just a way that I communicate with the world. It's just a tool that I use to communicate, but it's to inflict happiness on as many people as possible."
Connect with Ollie:
Remember Oli's billboard message to "avoid the ordinary" and embrace the special moments that make life truly rich!
