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

    21H AGO

    #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
  2. #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
  3. #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
  4. #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
  5. #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
  6. #71 - Alice Galsworthy - Mother Root [Chief Operating Officer]

    JAN 11

    #71 - Alice Galsworthy - Mother Root [Chief Operating Officer]

    From Veganuary to Dry January - Today's guest is the incredible Alice Galsworthy, Chief Operating Officer at Mother Root. Mother Root is the feel-good aperitif that helps you unwind without the alcohol, made of apple cider vinegar, honey, fresh pressed ginger and chilli extract. And it's blooming delicious! From an early customer, to first employee - Alice has now been there for nearly 3 years and the business has gone from strength to strength. We talk about dragons den, growing a team, and her amazing career at M&S, Lidl, Taco Bell and more. It truly is a cracking episode and Alice is a wonderful guest, 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 Alice Galsworthy and Mother Root 03:12 The Passion Behind Mother Root 05:39 The Impact of Dragon's Den 08:20 Understanding Mother Root's Products 11:01 Team Growth and Hiring Strategies 13:38 The Importance of T-Shaped Talent 16:17 Alice's Career Journey 18:44 Finding Fulfillment in Work 21:22 Comparing Experiences at Lidl and M&S 21:25 Lessons from Experience: M&S and Lidl 25:00 Celebrating Wins and Learning from Losses 28:28 Navigating Market Trends: Dry January and Beyond 33:49 Overcoming Challenges: Stock Shortages and Setbacks 38:10 Embracing Resilience: The Startup Journey

    41 min
  7. #70 - Zoe Harris - Oatly [Head of National Accounts - OOH]

    JAN 4

    #70 - Zoe Harris - Oatly [Head of National Accounts - OOH]

    First guest of 2026 is the wonderful Zoe Harris, Head of National Accounts at Oatly. Now if somehow you've never heard of Oatly, they essentially created the Oat milk space 20 years ago and have become an absolute powerhouse of a brand ever since. I loved speaking to Zoe about her time working in Incredible brands like Kellogs and Bear alongside many inspirational people on her journey. Plus digging into the 6 year career at Oatly so far with 6 different roles. This is a cracking episode, Oalty are an incredible brand and as mentioned in the episode, if you'd love to work for them head to the careers page HERE Enjoy this episode and Happy New Year! Here's to a fantastic 2026 ahead :) 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 Zoe Harris: Career Journey at Oatly 03:03 The Evolution of Oatly: From Science to Lifestyle Brand 05:51 The Appeal of Oatly: Culture and Team Dynamics 08:48 Growth and Development at Oatly 11:16 Oatly's Competitive Edge in the Market 13:53 Innovation and New Product Launches at Oatly 20:46 Upcoming Collaborations and Events 23:37 Zoe's Journey to Oatly 26:34 Lessons from Kellogg's 30:22 Experience at Bear 34:04 Navigating Challenges in the Industry 36:07 The Fun Side of Oatly

    40 min
  8. #69 - Henry Mills - All Dressed Up Dressings [General Manager]

    12/28/2025

    #69 - Henry Mills - All Dressed Up Dressings [General Manager]

    In this episode, Henry Mills, the General Manager of All Dressed Up Dressings, shares his journey through the food industry, discussing his experiences with various brands like Vita Coco, Seedlip, and Mindful Chef. Henry discussed what makes All Dressed Up special, including their commitment to natural ingredients, the packaging, and of course the founder Tess and her mission to shake up the food industry. Henry has so much brilliant experience - I loved this conversation and know 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 Recording Setup 06:28 The Rise of All Dressed Up: Brand Story and Success 12:45 Henry's Journey: From Vita Coco to Seedlip 17:19 The Evolution of Non-Alcoholic Spirits 23:49 Transitioning to Mindful Chef 29:30 The Importance of Product Quality 36:47 Reflections on Career Challenges

    42 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
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    The Unfounders

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