The Unfounders

Mitch Lee
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Closing the door on my startup opened the door to more opportunities than I could have imagined. I’m proud to be an Unfounder, helping startups grow from day one. I’ve been both founder and Unfounder and now I want to share the stories no one hears; applauding the day one drivers behind brands. You don’t have to start the brand to be the reason it made it. Forget founder fairy tales. We’re here for the Unfounders. Real talk from the people who took the leap (and what they ’d tell you before you do).

  1. #79 - Mike Hemming - Love Sum [Commercial Director]

    5D AGO

    #79 - Mike Hemming - Love Sum [Commercial Director]

    This week I speak to industry titan - Mike Hemming, The Commercial Director of LoveSum Dumplings We discuss Mike's extensive background in the food industry, including his time at Cadbury, Green & Black's, Mars Pet Care and Peter's Yard. Mike shares the founding story of LoveSum Dumplings, their vision for fresh dumplings in the UK, and the challenges they face in the retail market. There's insights on working in both corporate and SME environments, and advice for aspiring food entrepreneurs. There's SO much to dig into - ENJOY! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction to LoveSum Dumplings 01:15 The Founding Story of LoveSum Dumplings 03:25 Mike's Journey to LoveSum Dumplings 05:56 Retail Success and Brand Growth 07:55 Lunar New Year and Sales Insights 11:29 Building a Factory and Overcoming Challenges 15:17 Career Path and Early Influences 18:27 Lessons from Cadbury's Experience 19:57 Lessons from Cadbury: Leadership and Culture 21:13 Transitioning to Green and Blacks: Authenticity and Innovation 23:44 The Unique Environment at Mars: People Management and Leadership 25:14 Scaling Peter's Yard: From Niche to Mainstream 29:52 Navigating Premium Markets: Strategies for Success 32:59 Focus on Core Products: Building a Strong Brand 37:02 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs: Passion and Experience

    44 min
  2. #78 - Hayley Costanzo - PÄRLA [Managing Director]

    MAR 1

    #78 - Hayley Costanzo - PÄRLA [Managing Director]

    Today's guest is the fantastic Hayley Costanzo - Managing Director at PÄRLA. Now PÄRLA are revolutionising oral care and the toothpaste space with their range of innovative tabs and more recently their fully recyclable aluminium tube pastes. Hayley is a TRUE unfounder, being there pretty much from day one - I loved unpicking the last 5+ years building the brand, and her lessons and learnings from brilliant brands like Innocent and Strong Roots too. This is a corker, enjoy! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction to PÄRLA and the Mission 03:26 Innovative Products: Tablets vs. Tubes 06:16 The Importance of Ingredients in Oral Care 09:01 Building a Brand Experience 11:58 Hayley's Journey to PÄRLA 14:34 Growth and Expansion at PÄRLA 17:24 Field Sales Experience and Its Impact 20:05 Challenges and Insights in Retail 21:00 Scrappy Beginnings and Creative Solutions 23:36 The Journey at PÄRLA: Growth and Responsibilities 26:50 Work-Life Balance in a Challenger Brand 30:24 Navigating Tough Times and Operational Challenges 34:51 Advice for Aspiring FMCG Professionals 38:22 The PÄRLA Anthem: Music and Team Spirit

    40 min
  3. #77 - Bryan Serwatka - Minor Figures [Coffee Community Manager]

    FEB 22

    #77 - Bryan Serwatka - Minor Figures [Coffee Community Manager]

    This weeks guest is Bryan Serwatka, the Coffee Community Manager at Minor Figures, about the evolution of oat milk in coffee, the unique culture at Minor Figures, and Brian's personal journey into the coffee world. (Give him a follow on Instagram at @mf.bryan.mf) We explore the importance of authenticity in business, the challenges faced in the coffee industry, and the trends shaping the future of coffee. Brian shares insights on the attitudes towards oat milk in different countries and highlights the innovative products Minor Figures is developing to lead the market with their 'future liquids lab' I'm a huge fan of Minor Figures - and now Bryan.. And no doubt you will be too - Enjoy! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Meet Bryan Serwatka: Coffee Community Manager 02:23 The Story of Minor Figures 04:29 A Day in the Life at Minor Figures 06:15 The Unique Brand Identity of Minor Figures 08:44 Company Culture and Authenticity 10:45 Bryan's Journey into Coffee 14:02 The Importance of Coffee Origin Stories 17:04 Trends in Coffee and Automation 19:40 The Role of Relationships in Coffee 20:54 Music and Creativity in Business 22:11 Finding Contentment in Daily Work 22:38 Navigating Challenges in Events 24:13 Exciting Future Events and Milestones 26:41 Innovation in Oat Milk Products 30:39 Cultural Attitudes Towards Oat Milk in Europe 33:16 Music as a Metaphor for Persistence 34:48 Where to Find Minor Figures Products

    36 min
  4. #76 - Thea Mathias - Our Place [VP International]

    FEB 15

    #76 - Thea Mathias - Our Place [VP International]

    This weeks guest is Thea Mathias, VP International at Our Place - A brand known for their gorgeous non-toxic cookware. We dig into the brand's rapid growth in just 6 years, the importance of team dynamics, and the strategies behind their successful international expansion. Thea was a joy to talk to, I loved it, and you will too! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Thea and Ourplace 06:46 Team Dynamics and Company Culture 13:00 Strategic Marketing and Consumer Engagement 16:26 The Joy of Cooking with Quality Cookware 27:14 Navigating the Startup World 33:33 Key Takeaways for Business Growth 37:52 Looking Ahead: Future of Our Place

    40 min
  5. #75 - Amy Seymour - The Turmeric Co [Head of Brand & Comms]

    FEB 8

    #75 - Amy Seymour - The Turmeric Co [Head of Brand & Comms]

    Amy Seymour almost didn't get the job at The Turmeric Co... Luckily things have a way of working out, and they got the right person in the end! Amy - Head of Brand & Comms, shares her journey and insights into the brand's founding story, product innovations, and the challenges faced in the health and wellness industry. The conversation highlights the importance of alignment, problem-solving, and the unique approach of The Turmeric Co. in creating functional health shots. Amy discusses her role, the dynamics of working with Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu, and the brand's commitment to quality and customer engagement. I loved it, and you will too! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Amy Seymour and Turmeric Co 01:52 The Founding Story of Turmeric Co 06:19 The Journey of Amy Seymour to Turmeric Co 09:38 Amy's Background and Passion for Performing Arts 13:10 Working with Thomas Hal Robson-Kanu 17:06 A Day in the Life of Head of Brand and Comms 20:28 Team Dynamics and Structure 22:30 Product Range and Innovations 28:13 Challenges and Problem Solving 33:09 Proud Moments and Achievements 35:06 Personal Reflections and Future Aspirations

    37 min
  6. #74 - Mia Skelson - Seep [Social Media & Community Manager]

    FEB 1

    #74 - Mia Skelson - Seep [Social Media & Community Manager]

    This week I am joined by Mia Skelson - Social Media & Community Manager at Seep, discussing her journey in the sustainable cleaning industry. Mia shares insights into the importance of eco-friendly products, the challenges of social media marketing, and the significance of community engagement. We also discuss her brilliant approach to networking through a speed dating concept for social media managers, emphasising the need for creativity and standing out in the competitive FMCG space. I loved it, and you will too! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Against Ordinary Sponsorship 01:45 Meet Mia Skelson: Role and Responsibilities at SEEP 02:25 The Story Behind SEEP: Eco-Friendly Cleaning Solutions 04:48 The Team and Work Environment at SEEP 05:38 Mia's Journey to SEEP: Passion for Purpose-Driven Brands 07:37 Day-to-Day Operations: Social Media Strategy and Content Creation 11:33 Engaging with the Community: The Elton John Campaign 12:58 Speed Dating Social Media Managers: A Unique Networking Challenge 16:31 Key Learnings from Networking: Insights on Social Media Management 19:44 Future Trends in Social Media: What to Expect in 2026 21:44 The Essence of Social Media Engagement 25:23 Navigating Career Paths and Personal Branding 31:13 Overcoming Challenges in Social Media Marketing 33:58 Advice for Aspiring Professionals in FMCG 37:24 Reflections on Startup Life and Personal Growth

    40 min
  7. #73 - Miranda Ballard - NielsenIQ [Head of SMB West Europe & Global]

    JAN 25

    #73 - Miranda Ballard - NielsenIQ [Head of SMB West Europe & Global]

    Today's guest is the absolutely brilliant Miranda Ballard, Head of Small and Medium Business at Nielsen IQ. I loved this conversation, it was equal parts cathartic, fascinating and entertaining to say the least! Miranda digs into the critical role of data for small businesses, emphasising the importance of competitor data, consumer behaviour insights, and the impact of AI in market testing. Miranda shares her personal journey from a performing arts background to the data industry, highlighting lessons learned from her own business success and failures. The conversation also touches on the challenges small brands face in utilising data effectively, the significance of repeat purchases, and other key takeaways you need to listen to! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Nielsen IQ and SMB Market 08:45 Key Data Insights for Challenger Brands 16:05 Challenges for Small Brands in Different Markets 21:26 Innovations in AI and Consumer Insights 28:12 The Journey from Arts to Data 38:18 Key Learnings and Career Insights 45:25 Navigating Price and Promo Strategies

    49 min
  8. #72 - Chloe Reeley - Holos Kombucha [Head of Sales]

    JAN 18

    #72 - Chloe Reeley - Holos Kombucha [Head of Sales]

    In this episode the brilliant Chloe Reeley - Head of Sales at Holos Kombucha shares her journey from working in larger brands to leading a mission-driven startup. Holos Kombucha is dedicated to supporting survivors of modern slavery, and Chloe discusses the unique challenges and successes of scaling the brand. The conversation covers the importance of community engagement, innovative product development, and the lessons learned from both big corporations like Lucozade to challenger brands like Lilly's Kitchen and Fiid. Chloe is full of energy and a joy to be around, you're going to love it! If you want to build a brand consumers love, you NEED to speak with my incredible sponsor ⁠Against Ordinary⁠ - the masterminds behind my gorgeous brand. They have a 5-Minute Brand Test to help you uncover what’s working, what’s holding you back, and where your untapped potential lies. Give the ⁠Brand Scorecard⁠ a go today! Don't forget to check out the ever growing ⁠⁠Unfounders Song Selection ⁠⁠playlist on Spotify.... it's WILD. Ps - Have you got a guest you'd love to hear from? Submit a guest request form on our website ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Intro by Free Flowin' from ⁠⁠⁠Uppbeat⁠⁠ Music from #Uppbeat (free for Creators!): https://uppbeat.io/t/hey-pluto/nod-your-head Chapters 00:00 Introduction 01:35 Meet Chloe Reeley and Holos Kombucha 06:43 The Unique Mission of Holos Kombucha 11:18 Chloe's Career Journey and Early Aspirations 15:32 Lessons from Big Brands to Startups 19:35 Holos Kombucha's Growth Strategy 21:39 Events and Community Engagement 24:55 The Importance of Purpose-Driven Brands 26:59 Career Highlights and Proud Moments 30:44 Navigating Tough Times in Business 32:41 Advice for Aspiring Professionals 36:20 Closing Thoughts and Favourite Song

    38 min
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About

Closing the door on my startup opened the door to more opportunities than I could have imagined. I’m proud to be an Unfounder, helping startups grow from day one. I’ve been both founder and Unfounder and now I want to share the stories no one hears; applauding the day one drivers behind brands. You don’t have to start the brand to be the reason it made it. Forget founder fairy tales. We’re here for the Unfounders. Real talk from the people who took the leap (and what they ’d tell you before you do).

Information

  • Creator
    Mitch Lee
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    80
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Unfounders

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