Mubbasher Khanzada is the Founder & CEO of Welltime Ltd. and a proud Saltire Fellow. Growing up in a small village in Pakistan , Mubbasher was deeply shaped by family values and a drive to succeed that led him to travel halfway across the world to Scotland for education. That decision would lay the foundation for a career dedicated to transforming digital healthcare experiences Today, Welltime helps clinics streamline bookings, automate patient journeys, and improve engagement — with innovation at its core 🌍🔍 What you’ll learn in this episode:• 💪 How Mubbasher’s upbringing instilled resilience, discipline, and long-term vision• 🚪 His bold decision to transition from traditional work into tech entrepreneurship• 🧠 The founding story of Welltime and its impact on UK healthcare providers• 🌐 What the Saltire Fellowship taught him about leadership and scale• 🎯 Practical insights on growth, mindset, and navigating uncertainty• 🤖 Progressing exciting projects in AI, helping businesses adopt new exciting technology to push them forward and be more efficient👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to Risking It All for more real founder journeys full of risk, resilience, and reinvention 🎧
Our guest in this episode is Jamie Steel, founder and managing director of Squinty Pixels, a dynamic creative agency based in Glasgow. Jamie grew up in Paisley in the 80s and 90s and began his career in the structured world of corporate marketing. Over the years, he held leadership roles across construction, manufacturing, and engineering sectors — managing multimillion-pound marketing strategies and large cross-functional teams.
But in 2022, Jamie made a bold move.
With nothing more than a bedroom setup, a drone, and a vision, he walked away from the corporate ladder to launch Squinty Pixels — a full-service creative agency delivering web design, branding, video production, and aerial content across the UK.
In this episode, we unpack:
📈 Jamie’s early career journey from corporate marketing to creative entrepreneurship
🎯 Why he gave up a stable executive role to start Squinty Pixels from scratch
🚁 How becoming “the drone guy” opened unexpected doors in content production
🤝 The principles that drive his business today: transparency, collaboration, and adaptability
🎬 His creative process, real client stories, and how he’s grown a thriving team from the ground up
Whether you're a creative professional, a corporate employee dreaming of something more, or just curious about what it really takes to start your own agency — Jamie’s story is packed with insights, honesty, and inspiration.
This week on Risking It All, we sit down with John Conway—a man who grew up in a mining family on the outskirts of Edinburgh and charted an unlikely path from telecom production lines to becoming a clean energy entrepreneur.John shares how he made the leap from managing teams in telecommunications to breaking into solar with eco2solar, rising to Sales Director, and later working with Sunamp and Powergreen Renewables. Today, he’s the co-founder and Managing Director of the Commercial Solar Exchange, where he’s helping businesses navigate the energy transition.In this conversation, John opens up about:✅ The realities of leaving a stable corporate career✅ Lessons learned in business development and sales leadership✅ Challenges and opportunities in the renewable energy sector✅ What it really takes to build a company in clean energyWhether you’re considering your own career pivot, want to understand the renewable energy industry better, or just love hearing the raw truth about entrepreneurship, this episode is for you.🎧 Listen now and subscribe for more conversations with people who risk it all to build something new
This week on The Risking It All Podcast, we sat down with Martin Lightbowne, Managing Director of On Point Finance Group — and a true M&A powerhouse.🚀 Martin has personally completed 7 business acquisitions and now helps a mastermind full of dealmakers to structure and finance their own deals — often with none of the buyers own money down.🎙 But his story didn’t start in finance. He began as a manufacturing improvement consultant at global giants like Shell and Colgate, before pivoting to the U.S. to sell digital marketing courses — making over 70 sales before he even had a product ready to ship!In this episode, Martin shares:✅ How to buy businesses using other people’s money✅ The #1 mistake first-time acquirers make✅ Why his time at Shell & Colgate taught him how to spot hidden profits in any company✅ The exact strategy he teaches M&A entrepreneurs todayWhether you’re a business owner, investor, or future dealmaker — this episode is PACKED with practical insights.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe for weekly interviews with entrepreneurs who are risking it all to build something great.
Dinesh Hallan left a successful banking career to build DA Accountants from the ground up. In this episode of Risking It All Podcast, we talk about his journey as the son of immigrants in Glasgow, his career shift from engineering to accountancy, and how he took the leap into entrepreneurship.
Dinesh shares how he secured his first clients, the financial mistakes he sees business owners make, and key strategies to keep your business finances in check. From working with fish farms to aerosol can manufacturers, his career in accountancy has been anything but ordinary!
If you’re an entrepreneur or business owner looking to understand the financial side of running a business, this episode is for you.
🎧 Follow & Subscribe for More Business Stories!
In this special year-end episode, Barry Jolly and Brian McGill, cohosts of the Risking It All Podcast and owners of Jolly Media Marketing, reflect on their journey as podcast hosts over the past year. They dive into the highs and lows of podcast hosting, sharing behind-the-scenes stories, challenges, and the incredible benefits podcasting has brought to their careers and lives. Thinking of starting your own podcast? Barry and Brian offer invaluable tips and insights for anyone considering launching a business podcast. This episode is a must-watch for entrepreneurs, podcast hosts, and fans of the show! 🎉 Thank you for an amazing 2024! We appreciate all our guests, listeners, friends and family support so far! Stay tuned for more episodes in 2025. Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to join us on this journey.
In this episode of the Risking it All Podcast, we dive into the incredible story of John Loudon, Managing Director and Founder of Hybrid Anchor. Starting his career in call centers, John overcame countless rejections before breaking into the creative industry as a graphic designer. With a passion for web development and an entrepreneurial spirit, he has since built a thriving digital agency empire, successfully scaling his business and acquiring others. John shares candid insights into his journey, including: * His family influences like his father, who was an engineer; his grandfather, who was a programmer and his uncle who was a web developer * How he started his career in a call centre and his early difficulties breaking into the creative industry * Progressing to a senior designer role. * His high-risk approach to his first business and how he wouldn’t recommend it to budding entrepreneurs. * The challenges of navigating failed partnerships * Strategies for breaking into competitive industries * Lessons from growing and acquiring businesses in the creative sector This episode is packed with inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone with big dreams. Follow more of John’s journey and discover more about what his current business offers by connecting with him on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jloudon/ 👉 Don’t forget to like and subscribe for more episodes!
In this week's episode of Risking It All, we sit down with Michael Tonner, the founder and managing director of Matchless Energy Group, a leading eco and renewables installer based in Scotland 🏴 Michael shares his incredible story of transformation, from struggling in school and facing time in prison in his youth, to becoming a successful gas engineer and launching his own thriving business. He reveals how he built Matchless Energy from the ground up, growing it to an impressive £1.7 million in revenue last year. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, second chances, and the power of entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell for more stories of people who risked it all and came out on top! #RiskingItAll #Entrepreneurship #RenewableEnergy #MatchlessEnergy #Inspiration #Scotland #Podcast #SuccessStory #GasEngineer #EcoBusiness
In this episode of Risking It All, we sit down with Ryan Smith, Managing Director of Keane Premier Group, to explore his incredible journey from studying engineering to working in telecoms sales, and eventually joining the family business his mother started in the care industry. Ryan shares how they built a thriving business with both elderly care homes and adult care services, focusing on providing care for the most vulnerable. Ryan opens up about the challenges of acquiring other businesses in order to grow, the emotional toll of managing a care home, and the intense struggles faced during the COVID-19 pandemic. If you're a business owner, entrepreneur, or simply interested in the care home industry, you’ll learn invaluable lessons about risk-taking, resilience, and leadership. Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring business stories!
In this episode of the Risking It All Podcast, we sit down with Nick Sherman, CEO of EnergyAid, California's largest solar and battery service provider. Nick shares his journey from a collegiate golfer and failed business owner to building a thriving solar service company. Learn the ins and outs of the solar market in California, the incentives that make solar affordable, and the business models that helped him scale his company. If you're interested in how to grow a successful business, especially in the solar industry, this episode is a must-watch! 🔑 Topics Covered: How California leads the way in solar adoption both in the US and worldwide Incentives and financing models for solar installations Nick’s personal business growth journey Tips for maintaining and servicing solar systems 🎯 Watch the full episode now to get expert advice on scaling a business and mastering a service! 📌 Subscribe for more episodes of the Risking It All Podcast!
In this episode, we sit down with Jamie Simpson, a leading business investor and Partner at Monopoli Capital. Jamie takes us through his remarkable transition from a call center employee to founding and selling a successful wheelchair taxi service.
He shares expert insights on buying and selling businesses, emphasizing the significance of planning your exit strategy from the start and setting up effective systems to boost growth and value. Jamie also reflects on his mentorship experience with the legendary Dan Peña and how continuous self-development has fuelled his entrepreneurial achievements.
Tune in for a casual and insightful conversation filled with practical tips and stories that will inspire and guide current and aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, and anyone interested in the art of business acquisition and sales.
🌟 Get inspired by Steven Pettigrew's incredible journey from family business roots to becoming a top business investor and turnaround specialist! 🌟 In this week’s episode, we sit down with Steven Pettigrew, co-owner of Monopoli Capital, to explore his entrepreneurial path . Steven started out in his parents' business, which peaked at a staggering £35 million in revenue, and now, he has invested with his business partners in over 20 businesses, including some who need rapid turnaround. 🏢💡 Steven shares the ups and downs of his journey, including: 💼 Learning the ropes in a thriving family business 🚚 Building and exiting his own transport and logistics venture 🤝 The art of turning around distressed companies through Monopoli Capital ✨ Steven's story is filled with real-world insights and inspiration for anyone looking to grow in the business world. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with valuable lessons you won’t want to miss! This episode is sponsored by Workwear & P.P.E Supplies : Check out their website and be sure to message them to take advantage of their incredible 9 item bundle, with free embroidery and setup with your company logo for just £99: https://www.wwppe.co.uk/ 👍 Like, comment, and subscribe for more down-to-earth, inspirational stories every week! 👍 #StevenPettigrew #MonopoliCapital #BusinessTurnaround #Entrepreneurship #Inspiration #BusinessGrowth #Podcast
Join us in this engaging episode as we sit down with Michael Savage, the founder and director of Channel Finance Group and a FIFA-registered football agent. Michael shares his incredible journey from a passion for numbers and finance to becoming a key player in the football industry. We delve into his story, discussing his career, how he transitioned into being a football agent, and the challenges he faced, including overcoming a brain tumour.
Discover how Michael's fascination with time management has been a crucial driver of his success and how he's building his business into a multifaceted finance group. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!
👉 Like and subscribe for more amazing stories!
🔔 Listen to the full episode now and share your thoughts in the comments!
In this episode of the Risking It All Podcast, hosts Barry Jolly and Andy McDade are joined by John McShane, the visionary behind Leisure Connect. John opens up about his life's journey, including: His beginnings as a professional footballer and the turning point after being released from the pros. Transitioning into sales roles at Carphone Warehouse, Yell, and the telecommunications sector. The highs and lows of his first attempt at launching a new WiFi product, leading to a significant business dispute and failure. Founding his own successful business and wifi product with the help of former business partners and investors. Tune in for a casual yet deeply informative discussion filled with valuable lessons on entrepreneurship, overcoming professional hurdles, and the importance of resilience. See more of John's business leisure connect below: https://www.myleisureconnect.co.uk/ https://www.facebook.com/leisureconnectsolutions #podcast #businesspodcast #telecommunications #professionalfootball #football #resilience #enterpreneur
In this episode, we sit down with Conrad Campbell, the dynamic founder of Rivon, to explore his incredible journey from army signaller to successful entrepreneur. Conrad shares how he transformed his life from the tough streets of Scotland to owning multiple businesses, including tanning salons, a bed shop, and an ecommerce store. Now, with his businesses running on autopilot, Conrad focuses on helping others establish their dream lives in Dubai and teaches the art of trading gold, silver, and diamonds. Join us as Conrad reveals the risks he took, the chances he embraced, and the determination that fuelled his rise to success. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for business owners, young professionals, and aspiring entrepreneurs. Tune in to learn how you too can build the life and business you've always wanted. Follow more of Conrad's journey via his social media profiles: Linkedin Tik tok
#podcast #business #businesspodcast #army #dubai #takingrisks
🎙️ Welcome to the "Risking It All" podcast! In this episode, we sit down with Paul Costello, the owner and founder of Upload Abode, one of Scotland's leading estate agencies. Paul shares his inspiring journey from working in call centres to finding his passion for sales, moving to Spain, starting a horse racing tipping business, and eventually building a successful estate agency. 🌟 Key Topics Covered: Building & Growing a Business 🏢🚀 Taking Risks in Business 🎲 Sales & Video Content 📈🎥 Estate Agency Insights 🏡 Horse Racing 🐎 ✨ Highlights: Paul’s determination and focus on sales, marketing, and promotion throughout his career. 🔗 Learn more about Upload Abode via their website: Website: https://www.uploadabode.co.uk/ 👍 Call-to-Action: Listen to the full episode and subscribe for more inspiring business stories! Don't forget to like, comment, and share! #BusinessPodcast #EstateAgency #Gambling #TakingRisks #GrowingABusiness #BuildingABusiness #VideoPromotion
Join Jamie Taylor as he shares his inspiring journey from the streets to building a successful business empire. This motivational podcast will teach you about having a growth mindset and achieving your business goals. After starting out on the streets and being heavily involved in street fighting and drinking in his youth, Jamie managed to turn his life around after being stabbed during a fight. An inspirational insight into Jamies success, struggles and overwhelming determination to never give up and follow his goals. Now the owner of multiple thriving businesses generating multiple 7 figures a year Jamie's story is a refreshing tale of turning his life around by focusing on his personal development and family. See more of Jamie via his business's below: Taylor Roofs Taylor Solar Taylor Talks Trades
Join us in Episode 20 as we sit down with Javier Peralta, the dynamic founder of Going4Profit. From his humble beginnings in Valencia to his impactful career in Glasgow, Javier shares the transformative lessons learned under his father's guidance and his determined path through the world of economics, entrepreneurship and business. Discover how Javier's passion for empowering business owners led him to mentor and coach hundreds, with a goal to help a thousand business owners this decade. Javier was open in explaining his journey and the many turning points he had in his life and career. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or just starting out, Javier's insights on efficiency, productivity, and team performance are not to be missed. Tune in for a blend of humour, inspiration, and invaluable advice on making your business dreams a reality. This episode promises to be not only inspiring but also filled with practical wisdom for anyone looking to make significant strides in their business endeavours. Check our Javier here via his linkedin profile - https://www.linkedin.com/in/javierperaltagrowth/
This week on the Risking it All Podcast, Gary McEllen of G33 Media - https://g33media.co.uk/ takes us through his inspiring journey from academic uncertainty to becoming a master of the camera. Gary discusses what it took to leave the traditional path and pursue his burning passion for film and videography. Hear about the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, strategies for budding creators, and how dedication to craft can turn a dream into a thriving business. Packed with humour and educational insights, this episode is perfect for anyone looking to ignite their passion and turn it into success.
In this episode of the "Risking It All" podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Derek Longmuir, a successful entrepreneur who defied the odds to turn his passion into a thriving business. Joining hosts Andy McDade and Brian McGill, Derek shares his remarkable story of starting from humble beginnings in Viewpark, alongside his two brothers, and spending years in warehouses before transitioning into the world of entrepreneurship.Driven by his love for football and a desire to make a difference, Derek embarked on the challenging path of starting his own football coaching business. Despite working tirelessly in a warehouse to pay the bills, Derek dedicated every spare moment to nurturing his dream, often sacrificing precious sleep to build his business during the day.Through perseverance, determination, and a relentless work ethic, Derek's coaching business has flourished, becoming a beacon of hope for toddlers taking their first steps into the world of sports. From coaching kids to managing a local business, Derek's journey is a testament to the power of passion, resilience, and unwavering commitment.This episode is a must-listen for aspiring entrepreneurs, business owners, parents, coaches, and football fans alike. Join us as we uncover the untold story behind Derek Longmuir's remarkable rise from warehouse worker to sideline sensation.#business #footballcoaching #kidsfootball #entrepreneurship #determination
