Business Beyond The Launch

Mary Speakman

What happens to businesses that survive past the critical three-year mark? While 50% of UK startups don't make it that far, this podcast focuses on those who've beaten the odds and now face their next challenge – scaling and sustainable growth. Through candid conversations with successful entrepreneurs across all sectors, we uncover real-world insights and strategies for growing an established business. Our guests share their hard-won wisdom on expansion, systems, and scaling – knowledge that only comes from experience.

Episodes

  1. 05/06/2025

    002 – Sean Egan Talks Scaling, Strategy & Staying Ahead!

    Sean Egan is the Director of DES Energy and a seasoned entrepreneur with a wealth of experience in scaling businesses, building strong teams, and navigating the realities of long-term growth. In this second episode of Business Beyond the Launch, Sean brings a refreshingly honest perspective on what it really takes to grow a business after the initial excitement fades. From recruitment challenges to strategic timing, Sean discusses how success depends not just on turnover—but on building the right foundations with the right people at the right moments. He also explores the importance of peer-to-peer support, continuous learning, and staying competitive in a climate of rising costs and rapid change. Sean’s insights cut through the noise, offering grounded wisdom for business owners who’ve made it past the startup phase and are now focused on scaling with intention. This episode is packed with valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs and leaders who understand that staying at the top takes just as much work as getting there.

    38 min

  2. 03/10/2025

    001 - Gary Lumby Talks People, Risks & Exits!

    Gary Lumby, MBE, is a celebrated figure in the British finance industry, having started his career as a cashier at Barclays Bank in 1976. Over the decades, he has risen to significant prominence, notably as the director of SME banking at Yorkshire and Clydesdale Banks. Beyond his banking expertise, Gary is a seasoned business mentor and non-executive director, contributing his knowledge across various sectors and companies. He also collaborates with his wife, Hayley Lumby, in a range of entrepreneurial ventures, including in the beauty and decorating industries. In the inaugural episode of our podcast, Gary graciously shares his deep insights into leadership, acquisitions, exit strategies, corporate culture, and risk management. His experience provides a rich foundation for understanding the intricate dynamics of business growth and strategic decision-making. This conversation promises to be not only enlightening but also enriched with the warmth and wisdom Gary is known for, offering invaluable guidance to entrepreneurs and business leaders looking to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship.

    32 min
  • 2 Episodes

About

What happens to businesses that survive past the critical three-year mark? While 50% of UK startups don't make it that far, this podcast focuses on those who've beaten the odds and now face their next challenge – scaling and sustainable growth. Through candid conversations with successful entrepreneurs across all sectors, we uncover real-world insights and strategies for growing an established business. Our guests share their hard-won wisdom on expansion, systems, and scaling – knowledge that only comes from experience.

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