Talk Straight | Think Smart with Howard Kennedy

Ashlee Jane didn't have grand plans to set up her own business when she created an Instagram account showcasing her floristry hobby. But after building a large online community she took the plunge and founded her business The Suffolk Nest. In this episode, Ashlee shares her journey to becoming an accidental entrepreneur and her plans for the future. She talks about her upcoming book launch, strategies to manage incredible demand, and her desire to go global.

With a five-year stint as MD of Deliveroo, Dan Warne has a deep understanding of the food and drink sector. But it's his passion for the music industry that inspired him to reimagine the UK food scene and start his own business Sessions. In this episode, Lydia Christie talks to Dan about his journey to starting the business, investment in tech, recruitment strategies in the current market, future expansions, and more!

Charlotte didn't have a background in business when she started skincare brand Disciple. But what she did have was a background in psychotherapy, a unique insight into the causes of skin issues, and a solution that could transform not only her own skin but other people's too. In this episode, Lydia Christie talks to Charlotte about the inspiration behind her skincare brand Disciple, how it was named, the impact COVID had on the business, investment opportunities and sustainable plans for the future.

The Cheeky Panda has three core values: impact, inspire and innovate. And everything comes back to the importance of being green. From day one, Co-Founder Chris Forbes has been focused on bringing sustainability to the mass market, and the impact the business has had is incredible. In this episode, Chris tells host Lydia Christie how by putting purpose before profit, the money follows.

How did a beekeeping experience on the top of Tate Britain lead to a new business? With experience and passion for beer, and a new found interest in bees, Hannah Rhodes came up with an idea to bring them together. In this episode, Hannah tells host Lydia Christie about the experiences that led to her starting her own business, her passion for sustainability and local produce, and creating the first beer that used honey in the fermentation process.