The G&T Sessions

The New Age of Entrepreneurship: Insights from Chelsea Spencer, Founder & CEO of Big Reputation.

In this episode of the G&T Sessions podcast, Andrew Turner speaks with Chelsea Spencer, Founder & CEO of Big Reputation, about her journey into entrepreneurship, the impact of social media on business, and the importance of authenticity in marketing. Chelsea shares insights on the generational shift in perspectives towards entrepreneurship, the challenges of running a business, and the role of AI in marketing strategies. The conversation also delves into the distinction between personal branding and building a genuine reputation, emphasising the need for businesses to live their values and deliver on promises. Takeaways Chelsea Spencer shares her journey of starting her own business during COVID. The perception of entrepreneurship has shifted among younger generations. Social media can create pressure to succeed but also offers opportunities for growth. Authenticity and proof of work are crucial for building a reputation. Many entrepreneurs struggle with the realities of running a business versus the glamorised image on social media. AI tools are changing marketing strategies but should be used cautiously. The importance of having a solid product or service to back marketing efforts. The distinction between personal branding and building a genuine reputation. Future marketing will focus on authenticity and the real versus the fake. Chelsea emphasises the need for businesses to live their values and deliver on promises. Chapters https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI Introduction and Background https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=170s Chelsea's Journey to Entrepreneurship https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=336s Generational Perspectives on Business https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=505s The Impact of Social Media on Business Aspirations https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=687s Building a Business with Integrity https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=867s The Importance of Reputation in Marketing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=1031s Navigating the Challenges of Startups https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=1192s The Role of Founders in Business Success https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=1374s The Influence of AI on Marketing Strategies https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=1644s The Impact of AI on Mental Health https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=1811s The Role of Human Creativity in Marketing https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=2048s Authenticity vs. Personal Branding https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=2678s The Future of Marketing and Technology https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xHHnHAPyLoI&t=3016s Closing Thoughts on Reputation and Branding Linkedin  https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFJVNW83RGJJVUNnenNsWk9HRmx0aGVoVy1GZ3xBQ3Jtc0tuUzk0ZC1NUy1lMjN5MmF5cGYtWnZWLVdYZFM1R1hlZHhkdGJMM1lkN1JGRVlYTmotNEpxT2xMMjVCSndnZ3RSUy00eFEyM0ZCaHM4bnpnSjJDYjE3b2NGMTlTTDJRNGJFWWdfTWNCTXdydkRpVFgxbw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fchelsea-spencer-big-reputation%2F&v=xHHnHAPyLoI https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbFJVNW83RGJJVUNnenNsWk9HRmx0aGVoVy1GZ3xBQ3Jtc0tuUzk0ZC1NUy1lMjN5MmF5cGYtWnZWLVdYZFM1R1hlZHhkdGJMM1lkN1JGRVlYTmotNEpxT2xMMjVCSndnZ3RSUy00eFEyM0ZCaHM4bnpnSjJDYjE3b2NGMTlTTDJRNGJFWWdfTWNCTXdydkRpVFgxbw&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fchelsea-spencer-big-reputation%2F&v=xHHnHAPyLoI Enjoy 😜

Sangram Vajre, Co-Founder & CEO of GTMPartners on Why the CEO must own Go-To-Market

In this episode of the G&T Sessions podcast, Andrew Turner speaks with Sangram Vajre about the evolution of go-to-market strategies, the importance of aligning marketing, sales, and customer success, and the role of net revenue retention in business success. They discuss the impact of AI on business operations, the significance of the Move framework, and the necessity of revenue operations in scaling companies. Sangram emphasises the need for clarity, alignment, and trust at the executive level and shares insights on how companies can adapt to the changing landscape of work and workflows. Takeaways - Go-to-market is a business problem, not just a marketing or sales issue. - The CEO should own the go-to-market strategy. - Net Revenue Retention (NRR) is crucial for business success. - AI is transforming how businesses operate and interact with customers. - Companies need to create their own operating systems for effective go-to-market strategies. - Clarity, alignment, and trust at the executive level are essential for success. - The Move framework helps companies identify where they can operate effectively. - Revenue operations should be implemented earlier in the business lifecycle. - Deep work and focused time are necessary for effective leadership. - The future of work will rely on workflows and the integration of AI. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Go-To-Market Evolution 02:53 The Importance of Customer Success and Retention 05:43 Defining Go-To-Market Ownership 08:27 The Role of Founders in Go-To-Market Strategy 11:26 Aligning Teams for Effective Go-To-Market Execution 14:13 The Impact of Net Revenue Retention 17:12 The Challenges of Pipeline Management 20:09 The Need for Clarity and Alignment in Leadership 22:53 The Future of Go-To-Market Strategies 24:38 Navigating Business Growth and Outliers 27:01 The Importance of Security in AI 30:40 Prioritising the MOVE Framework for Limited Resources 33:55 Integrating Revenue Operations into Business Strategy 37:39 Evolving Go-to-Market Strategies 39:44 The Future of Work and Business Operations 46:25 Key Moves Companies Should Make for Success Sangram's Linkedin profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/sangramvajre/ GTM Partners Website https://www.gtmpartners.com Enjoy 😉

Navigating the Web3 Landscape with Devon Krantz, Founder, Managing Partner & COO of Linum Labs

In this conversation, Devon Krantz discusses her journey in the Web3 space, the evolution of blockchain technology, and the increasing institutional adoption of these innovations. She emphasises the importance of privacy in blockchain, the role of community building and education, and the mission of Linum Labs in developing new technologies. Devon also shares her experiences as a founder, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned in transitioning leadership within her company. The discussion highlights the significance of curiosity, adaptability, and the future potential of Web3 in promoting financial inclusion and democratisation of access. Takeaways - Web3 has gained significant traction and is now recognised as a legitimate industry. - Institutional adoption is on the rise, with major players entering the space. - Privacy is becoming a critical component of blockchain technology. - Community building and education are essential for the growth of Web3. - Linum Labs is focused on developing innovative solutions in the blockchain space. - Financial inclusion is a key benefit of Web3 technologies. - The journey of a founder involves both euphoria and terror. - Transitioning leadership can empower innovation and growth within a company. - Curiosity and adaptability are vital traits for success in the tech industry. - The future of Web3 holds immense potential for democratising access to financial services. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:43 The Evolution of Web3 and Institutional Adoption 05:35 The Role of Privacy in Blockchain 08:21 Community Building and Education in Web3 11:20 Linum Audit Labs and Product Development 13:57 Future Trends and Predictions in Web3 28:17 Navigating the Journey of a Founder 32:13 The Transition of Leadership 36:13 Innovating While Managing 41:20 The Future of Education in Web3 46:41 The Evolution of Financial Acumen Links Devon's Linkedin https://www.linkedin.com/in/devon-krantz-642b9495/ Linum Labs https://www.linumlabs.com/

Benjamin Felt, Cornwall Slush'D 2025 & Revolutionising the Microbial Marketplace with Strainvaults

In this engaging conversation, Andrew Turner interviews Benjamin Felt, the Founder and CEO of Strain Vaults, following his recent victory at the Cornwall Slush'D 2025 pitch competition. They discuss Benjamin's journey as a startup founder, the challenges he faced while pitching, and the innovative solutions his company offers in the microbial marketplace. The conversation also touches on the importance of feedback, the role of mentorship, and Benjamin's future plans for Strain Vaults as he navigates the startup landscape. Takeaways - Benjamin Felt won the SLUSHD pitch competition. - Strain Vaults aims to revolutionize the microbial marketplace. - Pitching can be a daunting experience for new founders. - Feedback from peers can significantly improve presentations. - Imposter syndrome is common among startup founders. - The importance of storytelling in pitching. - Building a strong network is crucial for startup success. - Mentorship plays a vital role in navigating challenges. - Future plans include attending major startup conferences. - Strain Vaults is focused on driving innovation in biotech. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 02:59 The SLUSHD Experience 05:57 Understanding Strain Vaults 08:55 Pitching Challenges and Success 11:49 Feedback and Improvement 14:48 Future Plans and Opportunities Links https://www.strainvaults.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-felt-63a32a243/

Hugo Farinha, Co-Founder & CTO of Virtuoso, Navigating the Future of Software Testing

In this episode of the G&T Sessions podcast, Andrew Turner speaks with Hugo Farinha, co-founder and CTO of Virtuoso, about the evolution of technology, the role of AI in software testing, and the importance of embracing change in engineering teams. They discuss Hugo's journey as a CTO, the democratisation of software testing, and the future of work in an AI-driven world. The conversation highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptation in the face of technological advancements, as well as the importance of collaboration between technical and non-technical teams. Takeaways * Hugo Farinha is a co-founder and CTO focused on autonomous testing. * AI is transforming the role of testing in software development. * Embracing AI can alleviate anxiety in engineering teams. * Democratising testing allows more people to contribute to quality assurance. * The shift left approach enables earlier testing in the development cycle. * Human roles will evolve but remain essential in an AI-driven world. * Feedback from customers is crucial for product development. * The CTO role will adapt but remain important in the future. * Technology is a tool that can empower humans to innovate. * Continuous learning and adaptation are key to success in tech. Chapters 00:00 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg] Introduction and Background 02:20 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=140s] The Role of a CTO and the Impact of AI 05:41 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=341s] Embracing Change in Engineering Teams 11:20 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=680s] Revolutionising Software Testing 16:54 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=1014s] Democratising Software Testing 21:56 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=1316s] The Future of AI in Software Development 26:07 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=1567s] Overcoming Obstacles and Building Resilience 27:15 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=1635s] The Importance of Customer Feedback 29:55 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=1795s] Navigating Peaks and Valleys in Leadership 33:24 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=2004s] Evolving from Technical to People Leadership 36:10 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=2170s] The Future of the CTO Role 39:43 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=2383s] The Role of Agents in Software Development 43:28 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=2608s] Human Creativity in an AI-Driven World 47:21 [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Cblc1jisBIg&t=2841s] Technology and Human Evolution Hugo Farinha is the Co-Founder and CTO of Virtuoso QA, where he leads the development of an autonomous testing platform that is transforming how enterprises validate software at scale. He is also the Co-Founder and CEO of TestSlick, a next-generation TestOps platform designed to unify test management, results, environments, datasets, and execution into a seamless, developer-friendly experience. With a career spanning over two decades, Hugo has built mission-critical systems across telecom, media, healthcare, and revenue assurance. At Virtuoso QA, he pioneered the use of Agentic AI to shift quality assurance from a reactive, manual process to a proactive, AI-driven practice — enabling organisations to test faster, adapt to change, and deliver software with confidence. At TestSlick, he’s now focused on redefining how teams manage the entire testing lifecycle, delivering the observability and operational tooling that modern software teams need to stay ahead. Hugo began his career at Alcatel-Lucent, automating legacy infrastructure in large-scale modernisation programs. He then led engineering teams at Viatecla during the internet boom, building national-scale digital platforms for media, travel, and public services. Later, he joined WeDo Technologies, a global leader in revenue assurance and fraud management for telecoms, where he helped scale complex enterprise-grade systems that processed massive volumes of transactional data across continents. He is especially focused on the intersection of automation, reasoning, and user intention — designing systems that not only perform tasks, but understand goals. Hugo frequently speaks on the future of testing, agentic systems, and the measurable business value of practical AI. Links https://www.virtuosoqa.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbThySGsyS25jSHlTaXZjRHZUeDJGYTdwYUxJd3xBQ3Jtc0tsRVluTXoxOVE4cUhQYlMwaUtZR3otTDA3dnYzX1h2eDdTUnU4aUs0WkphSXo5NjlNVmhKLWNqV2t0blBBZEtHOGw0RjlHX0JOb3NkQlRfZHNsZjdDUUVQYldKbU5mWm9MZmxhRFBZMnVLV0VQVFEtSQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.virtuosoqa.com%2F&v=Cblc1jisBIg] https://www.testslick.com/ [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbXp0NE1DbDZla1R6ZG9pNFFUN3I0SkVIbndKZ3xBQ3Jtc0tuejFKOWNWY1d3Qk5nX1hjSndLcW8zQUhnTnI0LTRHZVNsWmhPb2pka1hIRHBJdnlHS1BjdEZmSkctSGdrR3dncmx2Wk56bWlpOVlSVGhaTlFPNFBQZEJ2YjZtTXVxSGNncW14MlJvOHR0T3JENHQzRQ&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.testslick.com%2F&v=Cblc1jisBIg]  / hugo-farinha   [https://www.youtube.com/redirect?event=video_description&redir_token=QUFFLUhqbTZDa3B4cVozdmhRa210b29RTlc2T1FaRGdzZ3xBQ3Jtc0ttVmNoWG5MZjAtbTNZSi00NWZTV2c3NXh3Z0FIVVBTLW1ONDB6QVlKb0ZmT0RkNVBKSkwyRXA4SlRNbkVfWU5zYklQQmtJRnJiaUNkSW5LQnhTQW41aV82aVQ4SlAtSnhMaW0zX0FhbzJBVEsyWnNPOA&q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.linkedin.com%2Fin%2Fhugo-farinha%2F&v=Cblc1jisBIg] Enjoy !!