Sep 20

6 Entrepreneurs Pitch for £5,000 - Would You Invest? | Pitch'd or Ditch'd

Six entrepreneurs. Six very different business ideas. Up to £5,000 available to invest. But who has a business worth backing? Welcome to Pitch'd or Ditch'd, the entrepreneurship and investment series from Legacy Bench, where founders pitch their businesses, products and ideas to investors who aren't afraid to ask difficult questions. In this episode, six entrepreneurs enter the room seeking investment and advice. Their ideas span fashion, modelling, filmmaking, men's wellbeing, product innovation and even a completely new way to play chess. But having a great idea isn't enough. The investors challenge each entrepreneur on sales, customers, marketing, product-market fit, business models, growth, funding and profitability - including the question every founder eventually has to answer: How does this business actually make money? The EntrepreneursZion - Room A fashion brand built around presence, identity and meaning, with ambitions to enter the luxury fashion market. Alfa - Duru Talents A talent agency creating opportunities for models who don't fit the traditional height and appearance requirements of the modelling industry. Joe - Independent Filmmaker An award-winning filmmaker seeking investment to produce a short film that could become the foundation for a future feature-length project. Darren Evans - Useful An author and founder who turned his experiences with mental health and fatherhood into a book and wider brand focused on helping others. Darren Hilly - Brenor Innovation A former prison officer pitching an invention inspired by his experience witnessing the dangers disposable razor blades can create inside prisons. Max Johnson Goldrich - Fortuna Ludi Creator of a four-player chess concept that transforms the traditional two-player game into a new competitive and social experience. In This EpisodeSix entrepreneurs pitch for investmentStartup funding and business investmentHow investors evaluate business ideasSales, customers and product-market fitBusiness models and profitabilityBranding and marketingTurning an idea into a viable businessWhen a startup is too early for investmentWhat investors look for in entrepreneursKnowing whether you actually need fundingChallenging founders on their numbersTurning passion into a scalable businessSome founders arrive with passion. Others have products, customers or years of work behind them. But is there enough evidence to convince the investors to put their money on the table? Investors - Princely Samuel Okere and Ibie Aslam Which entrepreneur would you invest in? Pitch'd or Ditch'd is a Legacy Bench series where entrepreneurs pitch their ideas, founders face real business questions, and investors decide whether to pitch it or ditch it. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music and wherever you listen to podcasts for more episodes of Pitch'd or Ditch'd. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sep 19

Will AI Replace Software Developers? Coding, Tech Jobs & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench

Will AI replace software developers - and is learning to code still worth it? AI can now write code, build websites, analyse data and automate work that once required entire technology teams. But what does that mean for developers, junior tech jobs and people considering a career in technology? In this episode of Legacy Bench, four technology professionals debate the impact of artificial intelligence on software development, cybersecurity, data, startups and the future of tech careers. The panel explores whether AI is replacing junior developers, whether young people should still learn to code, and what happens if companies stop hiring the junior talent who would traditionally become tomorrow's senior developers. On the BenchStefan Burke - Software Developer, Chobble An experienced programmer sharing a developer's perspective on AI, coding, software development and how the technology industry is changing. Paula Mesa Macías - Cybersecurity Professional Bringing a cybersecurity perspective to AI, data protection, online threats and the human side of digital security. Daniel Wigley - Data Analyst, Fabric Analytics Discussing data, analytics, digital technology and how AI is changing the way businesses understand and use information. John Smithe - IT Support, Basement In The Sky Bringing a practical IT perspective on infrastructure, technology in business and what implementing new technology actually looks like beyond the hype. In This ConversationWill AI replace software developers?What happens to junior developer and tech jobs?Is learning to code still worth it?University vs apprenticeships vs self-taught developersCan you trust AI-generated code and AI-built websites?AI, cybersecurity and data protectionWho is responsible when companies get hacked?Startups, funding and working for equityShould artificial intelligence be regulated?What skills should aspiring developers learn now?The future of software engineering and technology careersAI is making software development faster and more accessible, but it raises a bigger question for the technology industry - if AI increasingly writes the code, what skills will the developers of the future actually need? Whether you're a software developer, programmer, tech founder, cybersecurity professional, student, data analyst or considering a career in technology, this conversation explores what the AI revolution could mean for the future of work. Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench brings professionals, founders and industry experts together for honest conversations about business, careers, technology and the industries shaping our future. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 21

Will AI Replace Lawyers? Legal Fees, ChatGPT & the Future of Law | Legacy Bench Ep. 16

Could AI replace your lawyer - and would you trust ChatGPT with a serious legal problem? In Episode 16 of Legacy Bench, four experienced lawyers come together to debate how artificial intelligence is changing the legal profession, why legal advice can be so expensive, and whether technology could eventually replace parts of a lawyer's job. From family law and clinical negligence to commercial contracts, technology law and inheritance disputes, the panel explores what AI can already do - and where human judgement still matters. On the BenchSky Langwieser - Family Law Solicitor at Hall Brown Family Law, specialising in divorce, financial remedies, children matters and prenuptial agreements. Trevor Ward - Head of the Birth Injury and Maternity Unit at Fletchers Solicitors, specialising in clinical negligence and complex birth injury cases. Rebecca Kelly - Partner at gunnercooke and a commercial, data and technology lawyer exploring how AI and legal technology are transforming modern legal work. Cori McKeown - Senior Associate Solicitor at Rothley Law, specialising in disputed wills, trusts and inheritance disputes. In This ConversationWill AI replace lawyers?Can you trust ChatGPT for legal advice?What happens when AI gets the law wrong?Could AI reduce junior legal jobs?Why legal advice costs so muchBillable hours vs fixed legal feesNo-win-no-fee casesMediation and alternatives to courtFamily law and divorceClinical negligence and maternity casesWills and inheritance disputesCommercial, data and technology lawAccess to justice and legal aidLaw degrees vs apprenticeshipsThe future of the legal professionAI can research, draft and analyse legal documents faster than ever before. But legal disputes also involve judgement, negotiation, emotion, strategy and understanding what a client actually needs. So will AI replace lawyers - or simply change what lawyers spend their time doing? Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench brings professionals, founders and industry experts together for honest conversations about business, careers, technology and the industries shaping our lives. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 21

Should Life Coaches Be Regulated? 4 Wellness Professionals Debate | Legacy Bench Ep. 15

Can anyone call themselves a life coach - and how do you know who you should actually trust? Life coaching has grown rapidly. Mental health is discussed more openly than ever, social media allows almost anyone to offer personal advice, and people are increasingly turning to AI for answers about relationships, careers, wellbeing and some of life's most difficult decisions. But where should the line be drawn? In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together four professionals from coaching, personal development, wellbeing and faith for an open debate about the modern wellness industry. They explore whether life coaches should be regulated, whether qualifications matter more than lived experience, how to identify a credible coach, and where coaching ends and professional mental health support begins. The conversation also goes deeper into childhood conditioning, trauma, overthinking, workplace burnout, faith, hypnotherapy and the growing role of artificial intelligence in personal advice. Guests on this episodeJames Ediker - Executive and Wellness Coach and Director of Light Bulb Thinking, as well as an advocate for men's mental health. James brings his perspective on coaching, workplace wellbeing, emotional intelligence and burnout. Pratiq Jaani - Author and creator of The Trusty Method, exploring personal growth, identity and the relationship between what he describes as the "conditioned self" and the "real self". Joe Loney - Life Guide, Author and Presence Practitioner, working with people around what he describes as the "modern addiction" of overthinking and exploring presence, awareness and our internal dialogue. Sophia Peart - Transformational Life Coach, Pastor and NHS Senior Manager, supporting women around identity, purpose, faith and personal transformation alongside her work within the NHS and ministry. In this conversationShould life coaches be regulated?Can anyone legitimately call themselves a life coach?Qualifications versus lived experienceHow to tell whether a coach is credibleChildhood conditioning and learned behaviourTrauma, triggers and changing our responsesOverthinking and the subconscious mindWorkplace mental health and burnoutFaith, meditation and hypnotherapyWhy simply listening can be powerfulCoaching versus professional mental health supportCan AI give meaningful personal advice?ChatGPT, AI and the rise of digital adviceAI versus genuine human connectionHow do you know who to trust?The discussion eventually turns to one of the biggest changes happening in personal advice today - AI. As more people use tools such as ChatGPT to talk through personal problems, the panel considers both sides. Can having something available to listen without judgement be useful? Or do we risk allowing technology to replace the context, empathy and genuine relationships that human beings provide? And as coaching continues to grow, should there be clearer standards determining who is qualified to guide others through important moments in their lives? Whether you're a life coach, wellbeing professional, business leader, HR professional, therapist, mentor, or someone interested in personal development and mental health, this episode offers different perspectives on an industry that increasingly influences how people approach their lives. Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench brings professionals, founders, creators and industry voices together for honest conversations about business, careers, technology, wellbeing and the issues shaping our lives. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations and debates #Podcast #MentalHealth #AI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Aug 4

Why Britain's Construction Industry is Failing - 4 Professionals Speak Out | Legacy Bench Ep. 14

Why is Britain's construction industry struggling - and what needs to change? Rising building costs, a shortage of skilled tradespeople, concerns over new-build quality, increasing regulation and rapid advances in artificial intelligence are putting pressure on one of the UK's most important industries. In Episode 14 of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together four experienced professionals from architecture, interior design, construction, property development and facilities management to discuss what's really happening inside Britain's construction industry. The panel explores the problems facing the sector today, where the industry may be heading next, and whether traditional construction careers could become even more valuable in the years ahead. Guests on this episodeGrant Erskine - RIBA Chartered Architect and Founder of Grant Erskine Architects Ltd, with more than 15 years of experience across architecture, property development and investment. Austin Tang - Founder and Creative Director of Austin Tang Interiors, specialising in luxury residential and commercial interior design. Rick Green - Founder and Managing Director of Lecale Homes, bringing extensive hands-on experience across construction, housing and property development. Stuart Waterworth - Technical Director and Co-Owner of Art of Maintenance Ltd, with decades of experience across facilities management, M&E and building maintenance. In this conversationWhat's really happening in Britain's construction industryWhy building and property development costs are risingBritain's shortage of skilled tradespeopleUniversity versus apprenticeshipsWhy traditional trades could become more valuableShould builders and tradespeople be licensed?Britain's new-build quality problemArchitecture, interior design and construction working togetherProperty development and HMOsAI in architecture and constructionCould AI replace architects, designers or other construction roles?Can technology and AI reduce construction costs?Smart buildings and the future of propertyThe future of careers in constructionThe panel also tackles a major question for the next generation - would you recommend a career in construction to someone starting out today? Whether you're a builder, architect, interior designer, property developer, investor, tradesperson, apprentice, construction professional or simply interested in Britain's housing and construction industry, this episode offers perspectives from professionals working directly inside the sector. Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench is the podcast where professionals, founders, entrepreneurs, creators and industry leaders come together to share real ideas, real experiences and practical advice about business, careers, technology and the industries shaping our future. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts for more conversations with professionals and industry leaders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 30

Will AI Destroy the Creative Industry? Experts Debate the Future | Legacy Bench

Is artificial intelligence transforming the creative industry for the better - or putting creative careers at risk? In this special Legacy Bench Debate, host Molly Ann Kennedy brings together founders, filmmakers, branding experts, business development specialists, and AI entrepreneurs to tackle one of the biggest questions facing creative professionals today. As AI tools become increasingly capable, what happens to designers, filmmakers, writers, marketers, and artists? Can businesses embrace automation without losing authenticity? And will human creativity become even more valuable in an AI-driven world? This episode features honest opinions, respectful debate, and practical insights from professionals building businesses at the intersection of creativity, technology, and innovation. Guests on this episodeChris Marsh - Founder of Agents Of and Business Development Specialist, sharing his perspective on business growth, networking, and creating long-term value in an AI-powered economy. James Kalu - Independent filmmaker, writer, and director discussing the future of filmmaking, storytelling, and the role of human creativity in an increasingly automated industry. Katy Ennis-Hargreaves - Founder and Creative Director of BOLDISM®, exploring branding, creative strategy, and why strong brands continue to matter in a world shaped by artificial intelligence. Ese Bobori - Founder and CEO of Audibound AI, offering insights into AI innovation, publishing, audiobooks, and how technology is creating new opportunities for creators and businesses. In this conversationWill AI replace creative professionals?Human creativity versus artificial intelligenceThe future of branding and designAI's impact on filmmaking and storytellingWhy networking still matters in businessSales versus branding - which drives growth?Video versus graphic design in the AI eraAuthenticity and trust in modern marketingEntrepreneurship and innovation in a rapidly changing worldHow creatives can adapt to the future of workWhether you're a founder, entrepreneur, marketer, designer, filmmaker, content creator, or simply fascinated by the future of artificial intelligence, this episode offers thought-provoking perspectives on where creativity and technology are heading next. Hosted by Molly Ann Kennedy. Produced by Legacy Bench. Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, technology, creativity, and personal growth. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and join the conversation with new episodes every week. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 30

AI Hype vs Reality - Founders on Business, Leadership & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench Ep. 12

Is artificial intelligence living up to the hype, or are we overlooking what really drives successful businesses? In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere brings together founders, business leaders, a software engineer, and a communication expert for an honest discussion about AI, entrepreneurship, leadership, and the future of business. From startup failures and public speaking to marketing, technology, and human connection, this conversation explores how AI is reshaping industries while highlighting the skills that remain uniquely human. Guests on this episodeDarren Ratcliffe - Founder of Courageous, an award-winning ecommerce agency with more than 20 years of experience. Darren shares how AI is transforming agency life, why resilience is essential for business owners, and the challenges of growing a company through change. Faith Sodipe - Software Engineer, speaker, mentor, and community builder. Faith reflects on the lessons learned from building a failed startup, discusses the limitations of AI, and explains why solving real human problems should always come before chasing technology. Aliya Rajah - Executive Presence and Public Speaking Coach, helping professionals build confidence, improve communication, increase visibility, and become more influential leaders. Carl Phillips - Managing Director of The PMC, a full-service marketing agency. Carl shares his perspective on marketing, business strategy, client relationships, AI, and maintaining value in an increasingly automated world. In this conversationAI hype versus realityHow artificial intelligence is changing business and marketingWhy human relationships still matterLessons learned from startup failureLeadership, confidence and public speakingBuilding a business without losing your purposePersonal branding in the age of AIEntrepreneurship and the future of workThe skills AI cannot replaceWhether you're an entrepreneur, founder, marketer, software developer, student, or simply curious about the future of artificial intelligence, this episode offers practical insights from professionals working at the intersection of technology, business, and leadership. Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and industry leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, technology, innovation, and personal growth. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jul 30

Supporting Artists, Tackling Homelessness & Creating Positive Change | Legacy Bench Ep. 11

How do you turn passion into purpose and purpose into real impact? In this episode of Legacy Bench, host Princely Samuel Okere is joined by three inspiring guests who are making a difference through community work, music, creativity, and leadership. Together, they explore how supporting others, creating opportunities, and building strong communities can transform lives. From tackling homelessness and promoting trauma-informed support to empowering women in the music industry and helping independent artists gain recognition, this episode is full of honest stories, practical insights, and inspiring conversations. Guests on this episodeAdnan Jouzaa - Accommodation Support Worker at Manchester City Council, sharing his work supporting people experiencing homelessness, his passion for trauma-informed early intervention, and his mission to help young people build confidence, resilience, and stronger communities. Heidi Noble - Music technician, musician, and creative advocate discussing the barriers women continue to face in technical roles within the music industry, while championing greater inclusion through education, mentoring, and opportunity. Ash Anderson - Founder of Merro Events and host of White Room Sessions, sharing his journey of building a platform that supports independent musicians, creates opportunities for emerging artists, and grows a thriving creative community. In this conversationSupporting people experiencing homelessnessTrauma-informed care and early interventionMental health, confidence, and resilienceWomen in music and technical careersSupporting independent artists and creatorsBuilding communities instead of chasing numbersEntrepreneurship driven by passion and purposeLeadership, networking, and creating opportunitiesTurning ideas into meaningful projectsWhether you're passionate about community work, music, entrepreneurship, or creating positive change, this episode offers valuable lessons from people who are making a real difference in the lives of others. Hosted by Princely Samuel Okere. Legacy Bench is the podcast where entrepreneurs, founders, creators, professionals, and community leaders come together to share real stories, practical advice, and honest conversations about business, leadership, creativity, wellbeing, and making a positive impact. Follow Legacy Bench on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, YouTube, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and never miss a new episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Legacy bench

6 Entrepreneurs Pitch for £5,000 - Would You Invest? | Pitch'd or Ditch'd

Will AI Replace Software Developers? Coding, Tech Jobs & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench

Will AI Replace Lawyers? Legal Fees, ChatGPT & the Future of Law | Legacy Bench Ep. 16

Should Life Coaches Be Regulated? 4 Wellness Professionals Debate | Legacy Bench Ep. 15

Why Britain's Construction Industry is Failing - 4 Professionals Speak Out | Legacy Bench Ep. 14

Will AI Destroy the Creative Industry? Experts Debate the Future | Legacy Bench

AI Hype vs Reality - Founders on Business, Leadership & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench Ep. 12

Supporting Artists, Tackling Homelessness & Creating Positive Change | Legacy Bench Ep. 11

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The Legacy bench

Episodes

6 Entrepreneurs Pitch for £5,000 - Would You Invest? | Pitch'd or Ditch'd

Will AI Replace Software Developers? Coding, Tech Jobs & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench

Will AI Replace Lawyers? Legal Fees, ChatGPT & the Future of Law | Legacy Bench Ep. 16

Should Life Coaches Be Regulated? 4 Wellness Professionals Debate | Legacy Bench Ep. 15

Why Britain's Construction Industry is Failing - 4 Professionals Speak Out | Legacy Bench Ep. 14

Will AI Destroy the Creative Industry? Experts Debate the Future | Legacy Bench

AI Hype vs Reality - Founders on Business, Leadership & the Future of AI | Legacy Bench Ep. 12

Supporting Artists, Tackling Homelessness & Creating Positive Change | Legacy Bench Ep. 11

About

Information