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. #90 - Harry Turipin - Imaginakery / Jungle Squad [Head of Sales]

    1d ago

    #90 - Harry Turipin - Imaginakery / Jungle Squad [Head of Sales]

    Today's guest is a good friend and absolute LEGEND in the FMCG scene, Harry Turpin. Harry is Head of Sales at Imaginakery - a game-changing children's better for you snacking brand, with their hero products Jungle Squad. If you're a parent, you NEED to get some of their 60% less sugar cakes in your basket. Use code UNFOUNDERS10 for 10% off on their website HERE I love their innovative approach of blending nutrition with entertainment for kids through their youtube chanel, trading cards and full on universe they're building. We also dig into Harry's own experience of building The Savourists - the highs, lows, Dragons Den and eventually what it's like to move on from this. It's super open, honest and vulnerable - but also a joy to listen to. You're gonna love it, 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 - Welcome and episode overview 02:40 - Harry’s current role at Imaginakery and brand mission 07:08 - Jungle Squad's unique positioning and recent success 13:15 - The impact of product listings in Tesco and Ocado 22:14 - Lessons from Cawston Press and early career insights 28:44 - Dragon’s Den experience and brand pivots 36:39 - The shift from running brands to personal life priorities 43:47 - The power of therapy and mental health in entrepreneurship 48:24 - Reflections on failures, learnings, and the entrepreneurial journey 53:06 - Future plans for Jungle Squad and emerging trends 54:09 - Connecting with Harry and ways to follow his journey 55:12 - Harry’s Song Choice 56:08 - Closing remarks

    46 min
  2. #89 - Clarisse Fraisse - Premier Foods [Innovation Controller]

    Jun 11

    #89 - Clarisse Fraisse - Premier Foods [Innovation Controller]

    Clarisse Fraisse is Innovation Controller at Premier Foods - and she was an absolute joy to speak to! I loved hearing about her background, working in brands like Kerry, Gu and for the brilliant ZenB pasta. We talk all things innovation, NPD, frozen - and community, with the brilliant work she and Kelly Mackenzie are doing building People Like Me, a space for women in business to network in a more relaxed and comfortable way. There are still a few tickets left for their Mixology event on Tuesday 23rd June at 6pm HERE There's loads in this, you're gonna 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 and Background 01:28 Role at Premier Foods and Innovation 04:57 Innovation Strategies and Market Trends 08:11 Career Journey and Early Influences 13:24 Lessons Learned and Team Dynamics 18:16 Inspiration from R&D Teams 20:06 Navigating Challenges and Setbacks 23:05 Building Connections: People Like Me 27:36 The Frozen Food Revolution 30:25 Curiosity and Career Growth

    35 min
  3. #88 - Marieke Hammes - The Canned Wine Group [Head of Operations & Sustainability]

    May 17

    #88 - Marieke Hammes - The Canned Wine Group [Head of Operations & Sustainability]

    Today's guest is Marieke Hammes - Head of Operations and Sustainability at The Canned Wine Group. They have two brilliant sub-brands, Canned Wine Co and The Copper Crew - both showcasing how incredibly delicious and sustainable canned wine can be. Marieke was employee number 1 after the founders and has been there nearly 6 years. I loved getting to know her backgroup, move into operations, and why she loves what she does. Today they officially re-launch 2 new wines into Waitrose so go and check them out. Marieke is lovely - and I know you're going to love this one... 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 Marieke Hammes and Canned Wine Group 04:21 The Journey of Canned Wine Group 06:47 The Launch of Waitrose and New Products 09:40 Understanding Canned Wine and Its Benefits 12:14 Operations and Challenges in the Wine Industry 14:57 Personal Growth and Sustainability Focus 17:35 Family Background and Sustainability Passion 19:54 Memorable Experiences and Events 22:19 Learning Curves and Operational Challenges 25:19 Future Plans and New Varieties 27:50 Advice for Aspiring FMCG Professionals 29:26 Closing Thoughts and Reflections

    31 min
  4. #87 - Zoe Fox - The Coconut Collab / Getting to Grow [Head of Business Development / Podcast Host]

    May 3

    #87 - Zoe Fox - The Coconut Collab / Getting to Grow [Head of Business Development / Podcast Host]

    This weeks guest is the effervescent Zoe Fox - Head of Business Development at The Coconut Collab and host of brilliant consumer brand podcast Getting to Grow. Well versed in brilliant conversations, it was nice to dig into all things Zoe, her motivations, passions, career history and of course all about her podcast. Zoe is full of energy, and equally full of wisdom. You're gonna 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 and Podcast Setup 01:33 Zoe Fox's Journey to Coconut Collaborative 06:00 Growth and Team Dynamics at Coconut Collaborative 08:31 Product Development and New Launches 09:47 Passion for Coconut Collaborative and Team Culture 10:53 Key Partnerships and Business Growth 13:01 Modeling Career Reflections 15:07 Starting the Podcast and Its Evolution 18:52 Themes from Conversations with Founders 20:05 Balancing Work and Personal Life 23:06 Embracing Chaos and Productivity 25:02 Motivation and Inspiration from Upbringing 28:23 Navigating Highs and Lows in Life 31:56 Future Aspirations and Goals 34:49 Advice for Aspiring Founders

    38 min
  5. #86 - Lawrence Moore - Oato [Commercial Director]

    Apr 26

    #86 - Lawrence Moore - Oato [Commercial Director]

    Today's guest is Lawrence Moore - Commercial Director at Oato Lawrence shares insights from his extensive career in FMCG, from Belvoir Farms to Red Bull, and the innovative approach behind Oato's fresh oat milk. Discover lessons on brand building, manufacturing, and leadership in the competitive food and drink industry. 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 Background 04:40 Transition to Retail and Unique Selling Proposition 15:27 Challenges and Successes in the Retail Space 22:11 Starting a Career in Sales 28:01 Growth and Management in the Drinks Industry 33:13 Building a Brand and Company Culture 43:15 Finding Balance and Personal Growth

    48 min
  6. #85 - Charlie Pugh Cordero - Foreva Farmers [Growth Lead]

    Apr 19

    #85 - Charlie Pugh Cordero - Foreva Farmers [Growth Lead]

    This weeks guest is the brilliant Charlie Pugh Cordero - Growth Lead at Foreva Farmers. They are making quintessentially British drinks, crafted with 100% natural ingredients straight from their Herefordshire farm. The farm operates on renewable energy, ensuring that every can of Foreva Farmers' you enjoy leaves a minimal environmental footprint. I loved getting to hear about the brand from Charlie, and all about his career. He's a lovely guy - and this episode is a beauty, 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 Foreva Farmers and Charlie Pugh Cordero 03:39 Sustainability in Beverage Production 06:14 Charlie’s Journey to Foreva Farmers 08:59 Growth Strategies and Market Presence 11:55 Product Range and Innovations 14:21 Sales Challenges and Successes 17:11 Future Aspirations and Partnerships 19:59 Advice for Aspiring Sales Professionals 22:31 Closing Thoughts and Personal Reflections

    31 min
  7. #84 - Lucy Williamson - STOCKED [Brand Manager]

    Apr 12

    #84 - Lucy Williamson - STOCKED [Brand Manager]

    Today's guest is Lucy Williamson, brand manager at STOCKED Now STOCKED make innovative meals in block format, with a passionate community of 'blockheads' and over 16,000 subscribers. I loved chatting to Lucy, you're gonna love it 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 Stocked and Lucy's Role 04:00 The Unique Concept of Stocked Meals 06:47 Lucy’s Journey to Stocked 09:36 The Growth of Stocked and Team Dynamics 12:17 Out of Home Campaign: 'Nothing Cooler Than Frozen' 15:16 The Evolution of Frozen Food Perception 17:42 Lucy's Marketing Insights and Unilever Experience 20:29 Advice for Aspiring Marketers 29:10 Introduction to Challenger Brands and Team Impact 29:48 The Excitement of Shaping a Growing Brand 30:39 Challenges of Working in a Startup Environment 31:45 Balancing Multiple Roles and Overcoming Overwhelm 33:14 Team Bonding and Social Activities 34:55 Activities to Celebrate Wins and Team Insights 36:00 Deepening Role Understanding and Team Collaboration 36:58 Music as a Workday Companion 37:12 Upcoming Product Collaborations and Future Plans 38:45 Connecting with Stocks and Final Thoughts

    40 min
  8. #83 - Louis Bedwell - FMCG Industry Advisor

    Apr 5

    #83 - Louis Bedwell - FMCG Industry Advisor

    Today's guest is my good friend Louis Bedwell. Louis has spent 10+ years on the inside of the food industry - running innovation programmes with major retailers, backing early-stage brands through an investment fund, and leading a senior membership community focused on climate and health strategy. His job is all about helping brands, retailers, and investors make better decisions about food, and he regularly posts great hot takes on LinkedIn. It's a slightly different one today - but super insightful, you're gonna 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 to Louis Bedwell and His Work 02:54 The Responsibility of the Food Industry 07:14 Building Relationships in the Food Sector 07:35 Early Influences and Career Path 09:53 The Power of Challenger Brands 11:51 Success Stories from Challenger Brands 14:27 Insights from Big Brands on Challenger Brands 17:11 Responsibility in the Food Industry 17:36 Collaborative Solutions in the Food Industry 18:57 Retailers and Challenger Brands: A Supportive Ecosystem 22:08 Emerging Trends in Food: Protein and Authenticity 26:25 Maximizing Brand Impact: Focus on What Matters 29:37 Resilience in the Food Sector: Navigating Challenges 33:08 Advice for Aspiring Food Entrepreneurs 36:07 Future Goals: Funding and Innovation in Food

    37 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
    91
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Unfounders

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