Entrepreneurs at Scale

Neale Lewis

This podcast shares insights from entrepreneurs, founders and CEOs on how they have grown themselves, developed their teams and successfully Scaled Up their organisations.

  1. Exit Advisory Team - Introducing the Exit Readiness assessment

    7 HR AGO

    Exit Advisory Team - Introducing the Exit Readiness assessment

    In this episode of the  Exit Advisory Team podcast the team discuss how the Exit Readiness Assessment tool can help you can clarity on how prepared you are to achieve one of the most momentous events you have had in terms of your business life... achieving the successful sale of your company.On this weeks podcast we welcome  three members of The Exit Advisory Team Neale Lewis (Scaling Up + Strategic Exit Coach)Debra Martin – Corporate lawyer (30+ years, heads corporate team at Geldards)Adam Rhodes – Wealth manager (25 years; focused on pre-sale and post-sale planning for entrepreneurs) Core message: At the heart of the webinar was the launch of our Exit Readiness Scorecard — a 3-part diagnostic tool that helps business owners assess: Personal Readiness – Are you emotionally and financially ready to let go? Do you know your “magic number” — the net amount you truly need to walk away fulfilled? Value Maximization – Is your business positioned like a premium strategic asset, with predictable revenues, minimal owner dependency, and a compelling reason for buyers to pay a premium? Exit Process Readiness – Is your legal, financial, and operational house in order to withstand due diligence without delays, discounts, or drama? Highlights from the conversation include: Time kills deals. Failing to prepare legal, contractual, and compliance essentials in advance can stall or sink even the most promising exits. Emotional readiness is a deal killer. Most founders underestimate the psychological games buyers play — and overestimate their ability to emotionally detach when the pressure is on. Rembrandts in the Attic — unique assets like IP, contracts, or market positioning — could unlock massive value… but only if you start identifying and protecting them years in advance. Owner dependency deflates value. If you are essential to the day-to-day, expect earn-outs, deferred payments, and buyer control over the deal structure. Your Magic Number matters more than your headline price. Too many owners chase round numbers instead of understanding what they actually need to live their next chapter with freedom, purpose, and security. Ready to discover where you stand? Take the Exit Readiness Scorecard  — a 3-minute “yes/no” assessment. You’ll receive a personalised report instantly to find out where you’re strong, where the gaps are, and how to start taking action with the right advisors beside you. 👉 Take the EXIT Readiness Assessment now by clicking on the link below:https://extraordinaryexit.scoreapp.com/

    28 min
  2. Desert Island Discs with James Gething Lewis

    27 JAN

    Desert Island Discs with James Gething Lewis

    On this weeks edition of Family Desert Island Discs I am joined by my nephew James Gething Lewis.Below are his favourite songs that would be keeping him happy during his time on his Desert Island  Track 1 — Desert Island Discs Theme (The Sleepy Lagoon) Track 2 — Prologue: Jellicle Songs for Jellicle Cats (Cats) Track 3 — Do-Re-Mi (Sound of Music) Track 4 — Take Your Mama (Scissor Sisters) Track 5 — Sweet Transvestite (Rocky Horror) Track 6 — Life on Mars? (David Bowie) Track 7 — In Love (Prince) Track 8 — Sit Down (James) Track 9 — Sex Is In The Heel (Kinky Boots) Track 10 — Potiphar (Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat) Track 11 — Bit of a Sort (Only Fools and Horses: The Musical)If could take just one Record: In Love by Prince Luxury: CD/Radio playerOne Book : The life of radio 1 broadcaster  John Peel

    37 min
  3. Exit Advisory Team - Podcast to Introduce the Team

    21 JAN

    Exit Advisory Team - Podcast to Introduce the Team

    This opening episode introduces the Exit Advisory Team and their “joined-up” approach to helping founders plan, prepare, and execute a successful exit—ideally years before a transaction is on the table.Neale Lewis (Scaling Up + Strategic Exit Coach) Debra Martin – Corporate lawyer (30+ years, heads corporate team at Geldards)Adam Rhodes – Wealth manager (25 years; focused on pre-sale and post-sale planning for entrepreneurs) Core message: Most owners go into an exit under-prepared, emotionally attached, and outgunned by sophisticated buyers. The team’s differentiator is a collaborative, trusted “dream team” (coach + lawyer + wealth manager, alongside the incumbent accountant and potentially M&A expertise) that works together early to increase value, reduce risk, and lower stress, while protecting both money and legacy. What is the purpose of the Exit Advisory Team ? To Level the playing field against sophisticated buyers To reduce seller’s regret by planning earlier and negotiating smarter To make the journey more organised, less stressful, and more valuable Key takeaways (the “entrepreneur lens”) Exit is not an event; it’s a build.    Waiting until “next year” is a classic trap. Their best-practice view: start 3+ years out, ideally even earlier, to raise valuation, reduce owner dependency, and de-risk due diligence.Your regular advisors may not be “exit-grade.”    They call out the difference between advisors who helped you start/grow vs. specialists who can navigate a high-stakes sale process. “No time for amateur” when buyers are professional negotiators.A joined-up advisory team beats siloed professionals.    Biggest advantage: collaboration and continuity. When advisors don’t talk, things “fall between the cracks,” creating avoidable risk, delays, and value leakage.Start with the end in mind: know your “Magic Number.”    Adam’s “magic number modeling” (cashflow/lifestyle modeling) helps you quantify: what you need from a sale (not just a round-number price) what trade-offs you’ll accept (price vs. timeline vs. earn-out vs. staying on) Owners underestimate the emotional + psychological game.    Exiting is technical and emotional. Buyers and intermediaries will “sell you the future,” and there are negotiation dynamics you don’t learn on Google.Unsolicited offers are often value traps.    Many owners would accept a “reasonable offer” without advice—risking millions left on the table and/or sharing confidential info with “fishing expedition” buyers.Preparation protects price (and prevents retrades).    Expect the “survey on an old house” effect: buyers will find issues and push price down. Being prepared (commercially, legally, operationally) reduces price chips and deal fatigue.Don’t take your eye off the business during a sale process.    Deals drag. If you stop selling, servicing clients, or leading well, performance dips—then either: the buyer walks, or  the next buyer pays less.

    40 min
  4. Entrepreneurs at Scale : Renaud Heitz co-founder of Exotec

    04/12/2025

    Entrepreneurs at Scale : Renaud Heitz co-founder of Exotec

    Welcome to another episode of the "Entrepreneurs at Scale" podcast, where we explore the journeys of some of the most resilient and visionary minds in the business world.  In the latest episode we welcome Renaud Heitz. Renaud Heitz is the CTO and the Co-Founder of Exotec. The leads the global product roadmap, leading the research and development teams. Passionate about technology and electronics, he was previously a robotics engineer at BA systems, where he met Co-Founder, Romain Moulin.    Key takeouts from the episodeFrom idea to industrial unicorn   Renaud and his co‑founder started Exotec in 2015 with two clear intentions: prove that modern robotics could deliver real impact in warehouses, and tightly align product development with customer value. That alignment has taken them from an idea to 10,000+ robots produced and over €1B in systems sold.Solving the “efficiency vs flexibility” paradox in warehouses  Traditional automation gave efficiency but locked customers into rigid systems. Manual operations gave flexibility but limited scale. Exotec’s SkyPod system uses fleets of 3D robots that drive, climb racks up to 14m high, and bring inventory directly to operators. The result:  Scaling globally by saying “yes” to bold risks   They did it anyway: opened a Tokyo subsidiary, hired locally, and deployed thousands of robots.    The whole story of their global expansion is a masterclass in managed risk: move fast enough to stay ahead, but not so fast you blow up quality or customer trust.Robots as tools, not co‑workers    Renaud is clear: robots aren’t replacing people; they’re replacing tasks.   Robots handle repetitive, physical, low‑value work (walking, lifting, climbing).   Humans move upstream into decision‑making, exception handling and higher‑value operations.    The hierarchy stays: humans decide priorities; robots are powerful tools that execute.   His 10‑year prediction: warehouses will be 100% robotics‑driven, with parallel, software‑orchestrated systems replacing rigid, bolted‑down automation. Leadership evolution: from engineer to recruiter to builder of leaders    Renaud’s leadership journey has had three big phases:   Early years: selling the vision to top talent when nobody knew Exotec.   Scale‑up phase: organizing teams so specialists can move fast without creating silos.   Current phase: developing leaders by giving them real autonomy and direct customer exposure, so feedback comes from the market, not just from HQ. Speed as a non‑negotiable strategic advantage    If he could advise his younger self, Renaud would say: keep the need for speed.   Once success arrives, the temptation is to slow down and “get comfortable” with processes, ERP, and structure.   His view: you must fix quality and operations without losing startup pace. In hyper‑competitive markets, speed is not optional If you would like to understand more about the work that Exotec is doing at the cutting edge of Exotec  you can go to their website here: https://www.exotec.com/VALUABLE RESOURCESEntrepreneurs at Scale Podcast - https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/scalingupScale Up Your Business, coaching/consulting: https://www.scalingup.co.uk/work-with-a-scale-up-coach

    39 min
  5. Entrepreneurs at Scale : Jeremy Middleton co-founder of Homeserve

    04/08/2025

    Entrepreneurs at Scale : Jeremy Middleton co-founder of Homeserve

    Welcome to another episode of the "Entrepreneurs at Scale" podcast, where we explore the journeys of some of the most resilient and visionary minds in the business world.  In the latest episode we welcome Jeremy Middleton. Jeremy  is a self-made businessman and angel investor.    After a career in brand management with Procter and Gamble, Jeremy spent a period in management consultancy with PWC before starting a series of businesses in partnership with Richard Harpin.    One of these businesses was Homeserve PLC, a multinational emergency repairs company, which went on to become a FTSE 100 business, employing over 10k people across Europe, the USA and Japan. HomeServe was bought by Brookfield Asset Management for over $5bn in 2023.    In 2000, Jeremy founded Middleton Enterprises Ltd, a successful family office investment company specialising in growth capital. This was set up with the intention of being the flexible, friendly investment partner Jeremy wishes HomeServe had in its earliest days. Middleton Enterprises currently backs several businesses, offering ambitious entrepreneurs in the early stages of profitability, both strategic and financial support. Key takeouts from the episode Entrepreneurial Drive (1:39) Jeremy disliked working for bosses and realised that entrepreneurship was the path to financial and personal freedom.Crucial Partnership (6:31) Detail of his partnership with Richard Harpin, emphasising the importance of mutual agreement and profit-sharing to their business successSecuring Strategic Investment (15:04) Lessons learned from negotiating with South Staffordshire Water, emphasizing the importance of pitching big ideas to decision-makers.Cash Flow Management (24:56) Highlighting the necessity of understanding financials, planning, and the critical role of cash flow in business sustainability and growth.Thoughtful Exits (28:21) Tips for planning a successful business exit, being open to sale opportunities, and knowing when to accept a fair offer.Enduring Legacy (42:21)Jeremy's focus on building a lasting legacy through Middleton Enterprises and philanthropic work, ensuring sustainable impact beyond his lifetime. Book Recommendation (45:15)Jeremy recommends Arnold Schwarzenegger's autobiography, highlighting the power of determination and persistence.  Top Tips for Future Entrepreneurs (47:32)Persistence is key. If something isn't working, make adjustments and keep moving forward. Jeremy emphasises the importance of adapting and staying committed to your goals.Middleton EnterprisesMiddleton Enterprises is a family office investment company based in Newcastle and London. We offer ambitious entrepreneurs, in the early stages of profitability, strategic and financial support to help them bring their dreams to life.  If you would like to speak to Jeremy or one of his team with regards to the work they do investing in ambitious organisations, they can be contacted at:  https://middletonenterprises.com/about-us/VALUABLE RESOURCESEntrepreneurs at Scale Podcast - https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/scalingupScale Up Your Business, coaching/consulting: https://www.scalingup.co.uk/work-with-a-scale-up-coach

    42 min
  6. Entrepreneurs at Scale : Tim Crump, Founder and Chairman of house building company Oakwrights

    02/05/2024

    Entrepreneurs at Scale : Tim Crump, Founder and Chairman of house building company Oakwrights

    EPISODE DESCRIPTION Welcome to another episode of the "Entrepreneurs at Scale" podcast, where we explore the journeys of some of the most resilient and visionary minds in the business world.  In the latest episode it was a great pleasure to welcome Tim Crump , the Founder and Chairman of the Herefordshire based Oak Framed building company Oakwrights.This year Oakwrights celebrate their 25th year since setting up the company, and today they have around 75 employees and are helping people to design and build their dream homes using a combination of craftmanship and the very latest technology.Oakwrights built our new coaching / podcasting studio, so it was a great pleasure to welcome Tim to be the very first in person podcast that we had recorded in the studio that his team had built.KEY TAKEAWAYS When Tim's first company went bust, the realisation that it is imperative to have good financial understanding and an appreciation on the importance of cash. The importance of building a great team of people around you. Being a role model as a leader.  Tim gets up at 4:30am every Monday morning to see all of the teams off the yard and on their way to construction sites around the country.  Never ask your people to do anything that you would not be prepared to do yourself. Culture is all about the way that you see your team working together.  Book Tim  is currently reading : Commando by Deneys ReitzContact Tim: https://www.oakwrights.co.uk/about/team VALUABLE RESOURCESEntrepreneurs at Scale Podcast - https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/scalingupScale Up Your Business, coaching/consulting: https://www.scalingup.co.uk/work-with-a-scale-up-coachHow Scaleable is your business? Discover your Scaleability Score:  https://scaleable.scoreapp.com/

    1 hr
  7. Entrepreneurs at Scale -Mark Divine and the Unbeatable Mind

    05/03/2024

    Entrepreneurs at Scale -Mark Divine and the Unbeatable Mind

    Welcome to another episode of the "Entrepreneurs at Scale" podcast, where we explore the journeys of some of the most resilient and visionary minds in the business world. We were incredibly honored to have Mark Divine with us. Mark is not just an ex-Navy SEAL; he's a man who has mastered the art of mental toughness and strategic thinking, both on the battlefield and in the boardroom. As the creator of the SEALFIT program, Mark has transformed the principles of SEAL training into a powerful framework for personal and professional development. Moreover, his insights as the author of "Unbeatable Mind" have empowered countless individuals to break through their limitations and achieve extraordinary success. Mark's journey from the military to entrepreneurship embodies the spirit of resilience, discipline, and leadership, making him a true beacon for entrepreneurs looking to scale their ventures and personal capabilities to new heights. Join us as we dive deep into Mark's philosophy, experiences, and the lessons he's learned along the way, offering invaluable guidance for anyone looking to lead and succeed in today's challenging environment.KEY TAKEAWAYS Learning from nature on how to be still and to truly listen to what is going on around you? The Benefits of Box Breathing  The questions that you need to ask to find your Purpose, your Passion and your Principles  BEST MOMENTS The most valuable leadership skill for anyone, is the ability to Stop, Sit still in silence and Listen Meditation is all about training the Mind   Book Mark is currently listening to:  Legacy by James Kerr Contact Markhttps://markdivine.com/https://unbeatablemind.com/teamhttps://sealfit.com/ Buy the books• Unbeatable Mind • The Way of the Seal• Kokoro Yoga  VALUABLE RESOURCESEntrepreneurs at Scale Podcast - https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/scalingupScale Up Your Business, coaching/consulting: https://www.scalingup.co.uk/work-with-a-scale-up-coachHow Scaleable is your business? Discover your Scaleability Score:  https://scaleable.scoreapp.com/

    54 min
  8. Entrepreneurs at Scale : Carajane Moore - Hunting Big Sales

    19/02/2024

    Entrepreneurs at Scale : Carajane Moore - Hunting Big Sales

    In this episode, we're thrilled to have with us Carajane Moore, a titan in the world of sales, known for her innovative approaches and groundbreaking techniques that have revolutionised how we think about making big sales. Carajane and her brother Tom have been at the forefront of the sales industry , consistently breaking records and setting new benchmarks for success. Today, she's here to peel back the curtain on the secret sauce behind her incredible sales achievements specifcally focusing on achieving large sales  KEY TAKEAWAYS The layer cake approach to sales - Becoming the expert and fully underestanding the problem that they are trying to solve.   You could be connecting with up to 10 people from the potential purchaser and you need to create a dosier on all of the interests, fears and poistions of each stakeholder that you are going to be talking to. Preparation is absolutely imperative to  Be really clear on who you want to work with - What does your core customer look like  Website :     https://www.huntbigsales.com/the-secret-to-big-sales/ LinkediN profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carajanesearcymoore/ Books they are reading :  Productize by Eisha Armstrong Podcasts listening to: All in Podcast  BEST MOMENTS Entrepreneurs are great story tellers.  It is there passion and drive that gives them an advantage over larger corporates Navigating the "eel in the deal" .. who could derail the deal.  Bring derailers into the conversation early The importance of feeding your brain - Reading, Podcasts, ongoing education to keep on top of the game   VALUABLE RESOURCESEntrepreneurs at Scale Podcast - https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/scalingupScale Up Your Business, coaching/consulting: https://www.scalingup.co.uk/work-with-a-scale-up-coachHow Scaleable is your business? Discover your Scaleability Score:  https://scaleable.scoreapp.com/

    51 min
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5
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About

This podcast shares insights from entrepreneurs, founders and CEOs on how they have grown themselves, developed their teams and successfully Scaled Up their organisations.

Information

  • Creator
    Neale Lewis
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2026
  • Episodes
    40
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Neale Lewis
  • Show Website
    Entrepreneurs at Scale