Business Without Bullsh-t

Oury Clark

A sideways look at modern business talking to founders & entrepreneurs about problems they face and how they solve them. New episodes every Tuesday. Business OR Bullshit quiz every Thursday. read less
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Episodes

Breaking the Mould: How Celia Chartres-Aris Champions Disability Rights and Inclusion
2d ago
Breaking the Mould: How Celia Chartres-Aris Champions Disability Rights and Inclusion
EP 301 - Celia is a disabled founder and Investor, a multi-award winning campaigner, lobbyist, researcher and policy designer, advocating for the improvement of disability equity and accessibility inclusivity.We discuss Celia's life long journey with Loeys-Dietz syndrome, and her personal and professional challenges. We talk about the importance of representation, access to benefits, and inclusive policies to advocate for a shift towards normalisation and societal integration of disabled people.We speak about the role of SMEs in fostering inclusivity and how they can become more proactive. We also discuss the necessity for businesses and government bodies to embrace inclusive practices - to consult with disabled representatives for a more equitable and accessible future.Celia also tells us why ineffective consultation qualifies for the big bin of bulls**tChapters:00:00 BWB with Celia Chartres-Aris01:17 Celia's Journey with Loeys Dietz Syndrome10:10 Challenging Disability Stereotypes10:47 The Intersection of Disability and Normality26:24 The World of Work as a Disabled Individual32:57 Exploring Accessibility and Inclusion Challenges33:33 Workplace Adjustments and Discrimination36:19 The Impact of COVID-19 on Work Flexibility37:18 Unconscious Bias and Disability Representation39:56 Experiences with Disability and Public Perception48:20 The Importance of Disability Inclusion in Business56:04 The Complexities of Disability Support Systems59:20 Better Disability Awareness and Support01:04:35 Exploring Toxic Positivity and Its Impact01:05:06 The Realities of Living with Disabilities01:06:06 Internalised Ableism and Its Effects01:06:57 The Healthcare System and Social Perceptions01:07:39 COVID-19: A Window into the World of Disabilities01:09:00 Disability Equality and Understanding in Society01:14:11 The Cost of Living with a Disability01:20:19 The Importance of Representation01:24:12 Personal Reflections and Advice for Founders01:27:17 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know CeliaUseful links from Celia:Access2WorkTraining Disability Confident Employer SchemeAccessible website widgetDisability as employersbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Sustainability and the Rise of Insect Protein with Conal Cunningham
16-04-2024
Sustainability and the Rise of Insect Protein with Conal Cunningham
EP 299 - Conal is the founder of Mr. Bug, a revolutionary pet food company using insect protein. We talk about Conal’s pivot from the music industry to starting an insect farm during lockdown, highlighting the sustainability and health benefits of insect-based pet food. We talk about the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship in the pet food industry, the process of farming mealworms, and the potential of insects as a sustainable food source. We discuss the regulatory landscape, the importance of grants for innovation, and the societal barriers to accepting insects as food.Conal also explains why government grant scheme's frameworks qualify for the big bin of bullsh*tChapters:00:00 BWB with Conal Cunningham00:30 Diving Into the World of Insect Protein02:48 From Lockdown Idea to Insect Farming03:49 Efficiency and Sustainability of Mealworm Farming08:05 The Future of Insect Consumption11:57 Grants and Challenges of Insect Protein Production13:44 Beyond Pet Food to Global Nutrition19:49 The Complexities of Protein Sources21:35 Preparing for a Plan B in a Changing World23:09 The Financial Struggles of Bootstrapping23:39 Raising Funds and Navigating Investment Schemes24:30 Market Growth and Product Development25:13 The Quirks of Pet Food Preferences25:49 Insect-Based Diets: A Sustainable Future?28:34 Addressing Industry Challenges and Innovations32:40 The Irony of Animal Love and Consumption34:27 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Conal36:45 Top Tips for Founders and Entrepreneurs43:03 Closing Thoughts and Recommendationsbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Boxing's Brand Champion: How Ben Shalom Built An Empire
09-04-2024
Boxing's Brand Champion: How Ben Shalom Built An Empire
EP 297 - Ben is the the founder and CEO of Boxer, a boxing promotion company valued at £25,000,000. Starting with a £10,000 loan at the age of 23, Ben successfully broke into the boxing promotional industry, a feat not achieved since the 1970s. Now at 30, he has secured exclusive contracts with Sky Sports in the UK and NBC in America. We discuss the uniqueness of the boxing industry, its' lack of brands, and Ben’s journey in creating a successful brand within this space. We speak about the importance of understanding the business side of sports, the challenges of promoting in a fragmented sport, and the significance of boxing as a sport that changes lives and builds character.Ben also explains why politics within the boxing industry qualifies for the big bin of bullshit.Chapters:00:00 BWB with Ben Shalom01:24 Breaking Into Boxing and Building a Brand03:14 Boxing's Challenges and Opportunities14:14 Innovating and Expanding in the Boxing World21:35 Accessibility, Diversity, and Global Reach25:30 The Eccentric Tales of Henry VIII25:58 Boxing Politics27:19 The Digital Age of Boxing and Its Global Appeal28:10 Understanding Boxing Championships29:29 The Cultural Impact of Boxing in the UK33:06 Personal Insights and the Business Side of Boxing35:16 Navigating the Boxing Industry41:33 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Ben46:19 Top Tips for Entrepreneurs and Final Thoughtsbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Breaking Free from Debt: Ken Okoroafor's Blueprint for Financial Liberation
02-04-2024
Breaking Free from Debt: Ken Okoroafor's Blueprint for Financial Liberation
EP 295 - Ken, alongside his wife Mary, are the creators of The Humble Penny and Financial Joy Academy, helping people achieve financial independence. Ken is a Chartered Accountant and former CFO who achieved financial independence by the age of 34 with his wife Mary. He joins us to talk their debut book Financial JoyWe discuss achieving financial freedom through financial literacy, responsible money management, and effective communication within relationships. Ken shares his journey from financial struggles in Nigeria to financial independence in the UK, emphasising the importance of financial honesty, community, and creativity in overcoming financial challenges. Ken also explains why misinformation in the financial industry qualifies for the big bin of bullsh*tChapters:00:00 BWB with Ken Okoroafor01:31 Introduction to Ken02:07 Ken's Journey to Financial Independence02:58 Parenting Challenges and Joys06:43 Navigating the Digital Age with Kids08:28 Entrepreneurial Spirit: Learning from Kids09:33 Cultural Insights and the Hustle Mentality22:26 Financial Transparency and Relationship Dynamics26:24 The Money Day: A Strategy for Financial Harmony31:36 Addressing Financial Imbalance in Relationships34:05 Cultural Perspectives on Money and Consumerism35:56 The Digital Age and Financial Behaviour37:19 The Power of Conversation in Relationships38:03 Navigating Finances as a Partnership39:19 Accountability and Financial Management40:01 Stigma of Debt and Financial Struggles42:48 The Impact of Culture on Financial Openness48:55 Finding Joy in Simplicity and Planning50:12 The Journey to Financial Joy51:21 Creating a Practical Guide to Financial Well-being01:05:46 The Importance of Early Financial Planning01:07:42 Learning from Older Generations01:12:07 Involving Children in Financial Decisions01:12:44 Exploring Financial Literacy with Children01:13:08 Demystifying Stock Market Losses for Kids01:14:17 Financial Advisors and Self-Empowerment01:14:49 Financial Planning and Avoiding Procrastination01:20:27 The Value of Diverse Income Streams01:23:45 Bull in Biz - Misinformation in Finance01:28:48 Quick Fire Round: Getting to Know Ken01:31:53 Top Tips for Founders and Entrepreneurs01:37:00 Final thoughts on Financial Joybusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Unveiling the Trading Game: Gary Stevenson's Confession to Economic Inequality
26-03-2024
Unveiling the Trading Game: Gary Stevenson's Confession to Economic Inequality
EP 293 - Gary is a former trader and now inequality economist who’s known for becoming Citibank’s most profitable trader in 2011 by predicting there would be an increase in economic inequality. Since then, he left trading and now campaigns for solving inequality.Gary joins us to talk about his debut book The Trading Game: A ConfessionWe talk about Gary's transition from the trading floor to being a critic of economic inequality and wealth concentration. We discuss systemic economic issues, the societal and psychological impact of the wealth gap, the need for fair wealth distribution and how we can achieve it.From proposing international taxes to addressing socio-economic implications, we break down the complexities of wealth distribution, take a look into the world of billionaires and trading, and explore Gary’s advocacy for a deeper common understanding of economics.Chapters:00:00 Andy’s Opening Confession 02:20 Welcome to BWB03:41 Meet Gary: From Trader to Equality Campaigner04:37 Global Economy and Wealth Inequality06:59 Dynamics of Wealth and Taxation09:42 Personal Stories and the Impact of Background11:02 The Trading World: A Closer Look15:11 Unhappiness Among the Wealthy22:15 Structural Problems of Capitalism and Taxation33:27 Exploring Solutions to Wealth Inequality36:36 Impact of Wealth Hoarding on Society37:39 Psychological Aspects of Wealth and Status38:04 Personal Reflections on Wealth and Privilege38:22 Influence of Wealth on Opportunities and Happiness39:07 Misconceptions of Wealth and Success43:32 Exploring the Roots of Inequality and Its Solutions48:19 Ramifications of Growing Inequality55:40 Reflections on Wealth and Happiness59:55 Advice and Insights from a Former Trader01:02:14 Navigating the Publishing and YouTube Worlds01:03:15 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Gary01:05:18 Gary's top tip for entrepreneursbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Moo-ving Forward: Simon Goodman's Journey to Dairy-Free Dominance
19-03-2024
Moo-ving Forward: Simon Goodman's Journey to Dairy-Free Dominance
EP 291 - Simon Goodman is founder of Over the Moo who are leading the charge for recyclable pouches of ethically made bite-sized, dark chocolate coated chunks.We discuss the importance of sustainably sourced ingredients and the brand's commitment to eco-friendly practices. We hear about Over The Moo's future plans, challenges in the dairy-free market and Simon’s transition from a family-owned button manufacturing business to launching an ice cream brand. We also touch on the impact of globalisation, and the significance of innovation in staying relevant.Simon also explains why greenwashing and acronyms qualify for the big bin of bullshitChapters:00:00 Welcome to BWB00:27 Diving Into Over The Moo's Dairy-Free Delights02:54 The Journey of Over The Moo: From Australia to Global Ambitions06:09 Exploring the Coconut Craze and Ethical Considerations08:30 Simon's Entrepreneurial Journey and the Future of Over The Moo15:29 The Challenges and Triumphs of a Family Business Legacy24:34 Navigating Family Business Dynamics26:07 The Future of the Family Business and Generational Wealth30:37 The Challenges of Running a Business and Environmental Concerns36:41 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Founders38:18 Bullshit In Business - Greenwashing and Acroyms39:37 The Quickfire Round: Getting To Know Simon Goodman42:00 Reflecting on Business, Family, and Personal Growthbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Breaking the Bias: Merida Sussex's Journey from Female Musician to Tech Entrepreneur
12-03-2024
Breaking the Bias: Merida Sussex's Journey from Female Musician to Tech Entrepreneur
EP 289 - Merida is founder of MetaGen, an app which simplifies metadata collection to ensure artists receive their fair share of royalties.We unpack the complexities of music metadata management and its impact on artists' financial stability. Merida explains how MetaGen works to ensure artists receive the royalties they deserve. Merida sheds light on her journey from musician to tech entrepreneur while dealing with the challenges of venture capital gender bias. We discuss gender perspectives in business, examine stereotypes, societal expectations, and debate why bias issues exist in healthcare.Merida also explains why sexual harassment in the music industry qualifies for the big bin of bullshit.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to BWB00:53 The Web of Music Metadata and Royalties01:21 Merida's Mission: Simplifying Metadata for Musicians04:42 The Birth and Vision of MetaGen12:18 AI in Music Metadata Management14:57 The Business Side: Funding, Monetisation, and Impact16:30 Emotional and Practical Challenges of Music Metadata27:59 The Fear of Financials: Musicians vs. Spreadsheets34:11 The Future of Metadata in Music36:43 Deep Dive into Metadata and Its Impact38:37 Challenges and Advice in the Startup World44:14 Gender Bias and Investment in Startups48:21 The Complexities of Gender Roles and Bias53:10 Bullshit In Biz - Sexual Harassment in the Music Industry 56:07 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Merida01:03:48 Top Tips for Entrepreneursbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Inside the Sports Industry: Product Innovation with GloveGlu’s Paul Sherratt
05-03-2024
Inside the Sports Industry: Product Innovation with GloveGlu’s Paul Sherratt
EP 287 - Paul is founder and CEO of GloveGlu, a global sports brand that specialises in goalkeeper products and services. We speak about Paul’s personal and professional journey, from his initial leap into entrepreneurship to creating and scaling GloveGlu. He shares crucial lessons on product development, market analysis, and the significance of adaptability and honesty in business. We discuss business growth, innovation in the sporting goods industry, and share advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Paul also tell us why lazy product buyers qualify for the big bin of bullshit.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to BWB00:45 Meet Paul Sherratt: The Man Behind GloveGlu02:09 Challenges and Triumphs of Scaling a Business03:25 Exploring the Global Market and Product Innovation10:22 From Idea to Product: GloveGlu's Origin Story15:49 Expanding the Market: Beyond Goalkeeping20:58 Paul's Journey into the Sporting Goods Industry31:01 Impact of Brexit and Going All In on GloveGlu34:34 The Entrepreneurial Journey: From Start to Success35:09 Leveraging COVID for Business Growth36:08 Innovating Product Lines for Market Advantage36:41 Navigating Post-COVID Market Dynamics38:41 Challenges of Protecting Business Innovations39:12 Building and Managing a Manufacturing Facility40:17 Facing Industry Challenges and Adapting to Change42:57 The Power of Perception and Impact of Fitness Trends44:34 Learning from Past Business Mistakes51:30 Transparency and Honesty in Business55:05 Bullshit in Business - Lazy Product Buyers 59:37 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Paul Sherratt01:03:40 Final Thoughts and Advice for EntrepreneursPaul's recommendations:How I Built This with Guy Raz (podcast)Shoe Dog - Phil Knight (book)businesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
The Art of Business: Inside The Mind Of Lee Bofkin
27-02-2024
The Art of Business: Inside The Mind Of Lee Bofkin
EP 285 - Lee is Co-Founder and CEO of Global Street Art, the UK’s largest mural painting organisation, creating incredible murals for commercial and community initiatives.Lee co-founded Global Street Art in 2012, organising murals with artists and local property owners, and since then, the agency has delivered over 2,500 murals for communities across London, and hundreds of commercial murals in over a dozen countries.We discuss Lee’s career journey so far, from his background as a scientist and experience in finance, to his entrepreneurial endeavours and commitment to promoting street art and community initiatives. Lee also explains why entrepreneur demigod worshipping qualifies for the big bin of bulls**tChapters:00:00 Welcome to BWB02:08 Lee's Journey with Global Street Art03:22 The Impact of Murals in Communities04:54 The Business Side of Global Street Art06:11 The London Mural Festival08:14 The Role of Art in Public Spaces10:45 Challenges and Opportunities in the Industry14:00 Lee's Personal Journey and Passion for Art16:44 Reflections on Society, AI, and Education22:28 The Can-For-Can Initiative26:05 Lee's Background and Journey to Art28:44 Work-Life Balance in the Art Industry29:58 The Early Days of Global Street Art31:53 The Role of Co-Founders in Business33:51 The Power of Storytelling in Business36:53 Bullshit in Biz - Entrepreneur Demigod Worshipping40:30 The Role of Collections in Art40:36 Quickfire Round: Getting to Know Lee Bofkin52:39 The Importance of Happiness in Entrepreneurship55:19 Lee's 30 Second Business Pitch56:01 Wrap UpLee's Recommendations:The Boring Talks (podcast)Vishen Lakhiani's 6 Phase Meditation (podcast)businesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark
Snacking and Scaling: The Journey of 'Made For Drink’ with Daniel Featherstone
20-02-2024
Snacking and Scaling: The Journey of 'Made For Drink’ with Daniel Featherstone
EP 283 - Daniel is founder of Made For Drink - simple, authentic and utterly delicious snacks to be enjoyed with a drink. Major listings include The Fat Duck, Waitrose, Sainsburys and Fortnums, as well as partnerships with Laurent Perrier, English Heritage and Molson Coors. Made For Drink were also winner of the Edie Sustainability Leadership Award in 2022.We discuss the challenges and successes that Daniel has faced during his journey in the snack industry, his thoughts on the industry's future, the sustainability measures they took and how it backfired, and the necessity for leadership and vision in the food industry. Daniel also explains why categorising food as good and bad qualifies for the big bin of bullshit.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to BWB00:34 Discussing Daniel’s Business and Product Tasting01:28 Deep Dive into Daniel’s Business Journey02:42 Challenges and Doubts of Running a Business03:32 Manufacturing and Scaling the Business12:22 Transition from Manufacturing to Outsourcing15:26 Fundraising and Investor Relations20:48 Reflections on Business Growth and Future Plans25:08 Downsides of Sustainable Packaging26:16 The Crisis of Product Recall and Production Halt26:36 Impacts of Packaging on Product Quality26:50 Struggles of Meeting Business Targets27:09 Challenges of Product Development and Innovation29:13 The Need for Leadership in the Snack Industry32:37 The Role of Small Businesses in Achieving Net Zero33:19 Importance of Clear Guidelines for Carbon Emissions38:29 The Exmoor Carbon Project: A Personal Initiative43:04 Bullshit In Biz - Misconceptions about Good and Bad Food48:24 Quickfire Round - Getting To Know Daniel50: 43 Daniel’s Top Tips for Entrepreneurs 50:45 The Importance of Passion and Vision in Businessbusinesswithoutbullshit.meFollow us:YouTubeInstagramTikTokLinkedinTwitterIf you'd like to be on the show, get in contact - mail@businesswithoutbullshit.meBWB is powered by Oury Clark