Episode 15: Liam Mitchel | Breeze Development

Episode 15: Liam Mitchel | Breeze Development

What does it take to go from a 21-year-old apprentice earning £2.97 an hour to building a successful digital agency?   In this episode, Liam Mitchell, founder of Breeze Development, shares the honest story behind his entrepreneurial journey. Starting with little more than ambition and a willingness to learn, Liam took the leap from apprenticeship and door-to-door sales into business ownership, despite feeling completely unqualified to do so at the time.   More than a decade later, Breeze Development continues to grow, and Liam reflects on the lessons that shaped him along the way. From handling rejection, building the right team, and learning when to let go of work outside his expertise, to navigating the changing world of SEO, AI, and digital marketing. This is a conversation packed with practical insights for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.   Liam opens up about the importance of discipline, protecting family time, and redefining what success really means. As a father, business owner, author, and self-confessed "free founder", he explains why growth isn't always about bigger numbers, but about building a business that supports the life you want to live.

Episode 14: Richard Lydon | Obelisk AI

Richard Lydon shares lessons gained from more than 30 years of leading, growing, and transforming technology-driven businesses. Having guided organisations from early-stage start-ups through venture funding, private equity investment, and mergers and acquisitions, Richard brings a wealth of experience in helping businesses scale and succeed.Drawing on his background in innovation, business development, intellectual property strategy, and board-level leadership, Richard discusses what it takes to build resilient organisations, create high-performing teams, and navigate the challenges of growth in an increasingly competitive marketplace. Through his work with universities, research institutes, investors, and global business partners, he provides a unique perspective on turning innovative ideas into commercial success.

Episode 13: Paul Blanchard | Harpscreen

Andrew Borland sits down with Paul Blanchard from Harpscreen to discuss the challenges and triumphs of expanding into the European market post-Brexit, maintaining client relationships, navigating political tensions, and the importance of innovation in manufacturing. Paul shares insights on the need for a strong workforce, the role of apprenticeships, and the significance of keeping the supply chain local. He reflects on his entrepreneurial journey, emphasising the value of communication and collaboration in business growth.

Episode 12: Andrew Dwerryhouse | Wild Thang

In this episode, we speak with Andrew Dwerryhouse, Founder and Managing Director of Wild Thang, a Liverpool success story that has grown from humble beginnings into one of the UK's leading branded merchandise and clothing businesses. Celebrating more than 30 years in business, Andrew shares his journey of innovation, resilience and embracing change, from the days of hand-written ledgers and Yellow Pages to building a future-focused organisation. A passionate advocate for collaboration, Andrew reflects on the mentors, colleagues and partners who helped shape his success, while highlighting the importance of investing in young people, nurturing talent and creating a strong company culture. Andrew also discusses Wild Thang's commitment to becoming a certified B Corp, demonstrating how responsible business, sustainability and continuous improvement can drive long-term success.

Episode 11: Nick Sumpter | Envogen Instrument Services Ltd

What does it take to turn ideas into action? In this episode, Andrew is joined by Nick Sumpter who explores the mindset of fearless innovators, the attempts to learn from every mistake, and challenging others to do the same. From tackling skills shortages and inspiring the next generation of engineers, to embracing failure as a pathway to progress, and not being able to get comfortable if you want to leave a legacy.