Shows
Oxford+The Origins of Oxford+Why do the critical conversations about founding and funding a business often happen behind closed doors, making the ecosystem feel impenetrable? In this special episode, Oxford+ host Susannah de Jager reveals the origin story and core premise of the podcast. Drawing on her extensive background as a former COO and CEO of a European equities hedge fund, and her later work in pension capital reform, Susannah shares what inspired her to move from listed asset management to focusing on nascent companies. She discusses how being exposed to companies in their critical growth phase—when they need long-term cap...
2025-11-1703 minOxford+The Multiplier Effect: Funding Companies, Ecosystems, and the Future of the UKHow do we solve the UK’s persistent scale-up capital conundrum and move from academic theory to commercial reality? Host Susannah de Jager speaks with Pete Davies, Partner and Head of Developed Markets Strategy at Lansdowne Partners and co-founder of Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE). Pete shares his unique, contrarian perspective, spanning decades of experience in asset management and pioneering UK venture.This episode delves into the linear evolution of deep tech commercialisation, from IP Group to the creation of OSE. Pete discusses the critical need to shift company formation from an "academic X has an IP"...
2025-11-0332 minOxford+Oxford North: The New Innovation District in OxfordHow do you design a physical space that matches the lightning-fast pace of modern scientific discovery? This episode explores the new paradigm for innovation districts with Professor Dame Kay Davies and Victoria Collett of Thomas White Oxford, the development company of St. John's College. The conversation covers the critical transition from academic lab work, where Professor Davies has spent 30 years researching Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, to the intense, milestone-driven world of biotech spin-outs. Victoria Collett, Development Director for the £1.2 billion Oxford North project, explains how its mixed-use, master-planned environment—complete with flexible lab spaces, public art, and community areas...
2025-10-2031 minOxford+The Cluster Effect: How Bicester Motion is Driving the Future of MobilityWhat if the key to the future of global mobility was found not in isolation, but in a carefully curated community? Host Susannah de Jager sits down with Dan Geoghegan, CEO of Bicester Motion, the visionary behind the world's largest automotive and future mobility cluster. Dan details his systematic, values-driven approach to turning a derelict RAF bomber station into a thriving, 444-acre ecosystem of 54 businesses—ranging from historic vehicle restorers to pioneers in net-zero fuels. They discuss the critical benefits of clustering, where like minds and complementary businesses achieve greater efficiency and critical mass. Dan sh...
2025-10-0642 minOxford+The Psychology of Scaling Companies and Teams with Professor Robin Dunbar: Part 3How do you maintain a strong company culture and team commitment as your organisation scales? In the third and final part of this series, Professor Robin Dunbar sits down with host Susannah de Jager to explore how social science can provide the answer. Robin explains that maintaining deep relationships with your core team is a huge "time burden" for leaders, but it is essential for fostering trust and ensuring everyone is on the same page.The conversation delves into the historical context of community-building in business, referencing the practices of 19th-century founders who built social c...
2025-09-2220 minOxford+The Psychology of Scaling Companies and Teams with Professor Robin Dunbar: Part 2Have you ever wondered what makes a great leader for a large, scaling company? In part two of our special series, Professor Robin Dunbar returns to explore the essential social skills needed to manage a growing organisation. Robin and host Susannah de Jager explore the psychological boundaries of group size, from the point where a CEO no longer recognises every employee to the limit of knowing 5,000 faces you've seen before. They discuss the challenges for founders who are emotionally attached to their "baby" and how this can impede necessary growth transitions.The conversation highlights the o...
2025-09-2212 minOxford+The Psychology of Scaling Companies and Teams with Professor Robin Dunbar: Part 1Have you ever wondered why your company's culture shifts dramatically as it grows? In part one of a special three-part series, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Professor Robin Dunbar, creator of the renowned "Dunbar's Number," to explore the evolutionary and anthropological realities that impact organisations as they scale. They delve into how social constraints on our brains affect group sizes and dynamics, offering a new perspective on why committees and teams function differently at various scales.Drawing on insights from fields as diverse as human evolution and business, Professor Dunbar provides a toolkit...
2025-09-2223 min
Heart of MotionSoul Whispers with Anita AdamsHave you ever felt that quiet tug toward something greater? A whisper so subtle you might miss it amid life's constant noise? That inner voice holds the key to your authentic path, if only you'd slow down enough to listen.In this deeply reflective conversation, Anita Adams guides us through the process of distinguishing true inner wisdom from fear-based thinking. When your soul speaks truth, you'll often experience a feeling of expansion, excitement, or lightness that feels different from ego-based resistance. She shares a beautiful guided visualization practice for connecting with your higher self, whether you're in...
2025-09-1534 minOxford+The Future of Genetic Medicine with Zandy Forbes, CEO of MeiraGTxWhat compels a scientist to leave academia for the high-stakes world of finance and then become the CEO of a publicly-traded biotech company?In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Zandy Forbes, the CEO and co-founder of MeiraGTx. Zandy shares her fascinating career journey, explaining how her experience as a hedge fund analyst shaped her unique approach to building a resilient, multi-asset genetic medicine company.They discuss MeiraGTx's pioneering work, from developing a mind-blowing technology that turns the body into a drug manufacturing facility to their successful clinical trials that...
2025-09-0842 minHeart of MotionWhen Your Body Changes The Rules, You Find New Ways To Play The GameStepping into the gritty Astoria Boxing Club in Vancouver for the first time, Lara Cubitt never imagined it would change her life. "It's old, it smells of empty beer cans and maybe urine?... blood?" she recalls with a laugh. Yet this unlikely beginning set her on a path to becoming a two-time Canadian amateur boxing champion—before multiple sclerosis forced her to reimagine her relationship with movement entirely.Lara's journey from championship boxer to certified Iyengar yoga teacher unfolds with raw honesty in this conversation. She describes being drawn to boxing almost by accident, initially thinking "I pr...
2025-08-0448 minHeart of MotionDancing Through Life with Fiona DrewbrookWhat connects the disciplined world of ballet with the adrenaline rush of mountain biking and the expressive art of pole dancing? For physiotherapist Fiona Drewbrook, it's the intensity, precision, and pure joy of movement that ties these seemingly disparate practices together.From bleeding into pointe shoes while maintaining perfect form to conquering three mountains in a single day on her bike, Fiona brings the same all-in approach to every physical challenge she undertakes. Her journey from professional ballet dancer to physiotherapist reveals how early movement education can shape our relationship with our bodies for life....
2025-07-2131 minOxford+How Founders Pledge Uses Data to Maximise Philanthropic ImpactEver wondered how to integrate meaningful philanthropy into your entrepreneurial journey? In this insightful episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Rob Chapman and Isobel Morton, Trustees of Founders Pledge, to explore innovative strategies for startup founders to effectively give back. Founders Pledge provides a structured, community-driven approach for entrepreneurs committed to donating a portion of their proceeds from liquidity events to charitable causes. Rob and Isobel share personal experiences and practical advice on utilising donor-advised funds, leveraging detailed impact research, and maximising the social impact of giving. With over $11 billion pledged gl...
2025-07-2124 minHeart of MotionThe Athlete's Blind Spot: What Your Movement Patterns Can Reveal About Your PotentialWhat if the key to athletic breakthrough isn't training harder, but moving better? For athletes chasing performance goals, the path forward might lie in what's been there all along – your movement patterns.From the moment we first move in the womb to our latest workout, our bodies develop unique neuromuscular highways – patterns that govern how we organize and execute every movement. These patterns become our movement signature, as distinctive as our handwriting or walking gait. But unlike static signatures, these patterns directly impact our athletic potential, either supporting or sabotaging our efforts.This episode dives deep...
2025-07-0732 minOxford+The Oxford Trust at 40: How Innovation and Education Power Oxford's FutureHow does a 40-year-old charity continue to shape the future of science and innovation in Oxford? In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Steve Burgess, CEO, and Nicki Campling, Director of Innovation and Operations at the Oxford Trust, to explore the organisation's unique role in nurturing startups and inspiring future scientists. From pioneering the UK's first innovation centre to investing over £20 million in state-of-the-art facilities, the Trust has quietly built an ecosystem where early-stage companies can thrive.Listeners will discover how the Trust's dual mission—supporting deep tech startups and del...
2025-07-0734 minHeart of MotionThe Marathon Mindset with Susanne MuellerSusanne Mueller, executive leadership coach and marathon runner, shares how the "marathon mindset" applies to success in both physical challenges and professional life.• Building consistency through regular physical activity creates mental resilience and healthy lifestyle habits• The true value lies in the preparation—not just the achievement itself• Mueller's 5K Formula for Success: Start, Team/Training, Evaluation, Pacing, Success• "Pole pole" (slowly, slowly): Sometimes slowing down is necessary to ultimately go faster• Cross-cultural awareness comes from meeting people where they are rather than where we think they should be• Physical movement can help women nav...
2025-06-2331 minOxford+Can Sirona Rival Ozempic? A New Chapter in Obesity Treatment with Camilla Easter, CEO of Oxford Medical ProductsIs there a better way to manage obesity than GLP-1 drugs like Ozempic? In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager speaks with Camilla Easter, CEO of Oxford Medical Products, about Sirona—a pioneering, non-pharmaceutical pill that mimics the effects of bariatric surgery without the side effects. Designed to expand in the stomach and promote satiety, Sirona could become the go-to solution for long-term weight loss and maintenance. Camilla shares the company’s unconventional startup journey, why they avoided the university spinout route, and how the product is positioned to address global obesity, especially among...
2025-06-2333 minOxford+Aligning Founders and Investors with David Mott, Founder Partner of Oxford CapitalWhat does it take to scale a successful venture capital firm while staying aligned with founders? In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager speaks with David Mott, Founder Partner at Oxford Capital, about his 25-year journey backing over 100 UK tech startups. David shares insights on what makes early-stage companies succeed, why founder-led teams outperform, and how Oxford Capital bridges the gap between private wealth and innovation. From pioneering EIS funds to influencing UK venture policy, David outlines the key elements that drive value creation in startups—including team structure, sector focus, and investment ti...
2025-06-0937 minOxford+Building Billion-Pound Outcomes with Jack Edmondson, CIO of Oxford Science EnterprisesCan a university-powered ecosystem become the UK’s next startup superpower? In this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager sits down with Jack Edmondson, Chief Investment Officer at Oxford Science Enterprises (OSE), to explore the art and challenge of turning world-class research into global impact. With over 20 years in investment and deep ties to the Oxford ecosystem, Jack shares his vision for scaling science-driven startups, the role of co-investors, and how to nurture talent while maintaining commercial rigour. He offers an inside look at OSE’s approach to risk, return, and capital allocation across Life S...
2025-05-2639 minHeart of MotionFinding Inner WisdomThe wisdom we seek is often already within us – but how do we access it? In this illuminating conversation with transformation coach and spiritual mentor Rachel Linnett, we explore how movement, creativity and self-love can becomes a powerful pathways to self-discovery, inner wisdom, and personal evolution.Rather than seeking transformation through prescribed programs promising a "new you," she guides us toward embracing and accepting all aspects of ourselves – even those parts we'd prefer to hide. This radical acceptance becomes the foundation for genuine growth and change.Drawing from 18+ years of experience coaching others and her own...
2025-05-1241 minOxford+Coming Soon: Oxford+ Season 3Oxford+ is back for Season Three. This season will continue the conversation with investors, entrepreneurs and innovators, but will also focus on those new entrants to the ecosystem who are going to be changing the landscape in the coming months and years.Oxford+ takes you deep into the myths and truths of the Oxford investing landscape. Join your host, Susannah de Jager, as she interviews investors, influencers, and entrepreneurs who operate within and have an impact on the Oxford ecosystem.Visit our website to learn more and subscribe to our newsletter - oxfordplus.co.uk
2025-05-1200 minHeart of MotionFinding Freedom Through Movement with Allison BirtDiscover the transformative power of mindful movement with movement educator Allison Birt as she shares her journey from ballet to Pilates teacher and Franklin Method practitioner. What happens when we shift our focus from punishing workouts to pleasurable movement? Allison reveals how our relationship with our bodies can fundamentally change when we approach movement with curiosity rather than judgment. "Movement is supposed to feel good. That is our birthright," she reminds us, challenging fitness industry norms that glorify exhaustion and pain.The conversation explores the rich lineage of Pilates, tracing its evolution through first-generation teachers w...
2025-04-0739 minHeart of MotionWater, Work, and Wisdom: A Conversation with Olympic Kayaker Kamini JainPaddle into the remarkable world of Kamini Jain, an Olympic kayaker whose journey from shy teenager to Hall of Fame paddler reveals powerful lessons about perseverance, community, and finding strength on the water.Kamini's story begins with a quiet 14-year-old discovering kayaking – a perfect fit for her introverted nature that would eventually lead to Olympic finals, 11 World Cup medals, and induction into three different Halls of Fame. Kamini has a unique perspective, with her breadth of experience across multiple paddle disciplines. From sprint kayaking to dragon boating to outrigger canoes, she illuminates the technical foundations tha...
2025-03-3126 minHeart of MotionMeditation as MedicineIn a world increasingly fraught with stress and anxiety, finding balance and peace can sometimes seem unattainable. This episode of the Heart of Motion podcast dives deep into the potent intersection of movement, mindfulness, and health, featuring expert insights from Siobhan O'Connell, a seasoned physiotherapist with 40+ years experience. We explore how chronic stress influences our overall health, shaping our bodies and minds in detrimental ways. Siobhan shares her journey of discovering the mind-body connection, revealing how integrating ancient wisdom from meditation with modern science can open pathways to healing that extend beyond traditional practices.Listeners will learn...
2025-03-0338 minHeart of MotionThe Science of Breath for Better HealthEnhance your health through the power of breath, and discover how such a simple act can profoundly impact your physical and emotional well-being. Join me, Susannah Steers, as I guide you through the often-overlooked science of breathing, drawing insights from James Nestor's "Breath: The New Science of a Lost Art." Together, we'll navigate the intricate connections between breathing patterns and health. Learn about the role of the diaphragm in effective breathing, and how modern society's loss of fundamental breathing skills affects everything from posture to athletic performance. Whether you're into Pilates, fitness or sport or or whether you're someone c...
2025-02-1726 minOxford+Bringing Science to Society with Molly Stevens, John Black Professor of Bionanoscience at the University of OxfordHow can cutting-edge nanoscience transform medicine and inspire groundbreaking startups within Oxford? In this episode, Susannah de Jager sits down with Professor Dame Molly Stevens, John Black Professor of Bionanoscience at the University of Oxford. Together, they explore Molly’s extraordinary journey in interdisciplinary research, the process of spinning out successful companies from academia, and the unique opportunities Oxford offers for scientific innovation. Molly also shares insights on fostering diverse teams, driving impactful research, and the future of quantum sensing in biomedical applications.(00:00) - Bringing Science to Society with Molly Stevens
(00:18) - Meet Professor Da...
2025-02-1731 minOxford+How Machine Learning in Oxford Is Transforming Medicine Worldwide with Lionel Tarassenko, President of Reuben CollegeIn this episode, Susannah de Jager is joined by Lionel Tarassenko, CBE, one of the world's leading experts in AI, machine learning, and biomedical engineering. Lionel shares his fascinating journey from the lab to real-world applications, his pioneering work with NHS data, and his views on how the UK can leverage its unique strengths in healthcare innovation. He also explores the role of Oxford, emerging technologies, and the transformative potential of large multimodal models in medicine.(00:00) - How Machine Learning in Oxford Is Transforming Medicine Worldwide
(00:33) - Meet Lord Lionel Tarassenko
(01:09) - Lionel's Journey and Achievements
(02:41...
2025-02-0340 minHeart of MotionMovement Matters! Fitness & Mobility for Lifelong HealthUncover the truth behind society's fitness myths and why your daily workout might not be enough for holistic health. Join host Susannah Steers for this episode of the Heart of Motion podcast as we explore the profound difference between fitness and movement training. Our modern conveniences have created a movement deficit, often leaving us with chronic discomfort despite those frequent gym visits. Let's shift the spotlight from visible fitness markers like sculpted abs to a richer understanding of our body's capacity and language. Together, we'll redefine what it means to be truly fit, enhancing our mobility and quality of...
2025-01-2021 minOxford+How Oxford University Innovation Bridges Science and Business with Mairi Gibbs, CEO of OUIHow does a world-leading university turn groundbreaking research into businesses that change the world? In this episode, Susannah de Jager speaks with Mairi Gibbs, CEO of Oxford University Innovation (OUI), about how Oxford transforms cutting-edge science into real-world solutions. Mairi shares her experience leading OUI, the importance of innovation within universities, and the challenges and opportunities in bridging academia and business.(00:00) - How Oxford University Innovation Bridges Science and Business with Mairi Gibbs, CEO of OUI
(00:18) - Meet Mairi Gibbs: CEO of Oxford University Innovation
(01:30) - Mairi's Journey from Chemistry to Technology Transfer
(03:57...
2025-01-2036 minOxford+What Formula One Teaches Us About Startups and Success with Adam Parr, former Chief Executive of Williams F1In this episode, Susannah de Jager is joined by Adam Parr, a barrister, entrepreneur, and former Chairman and CEO of the Williams Formula One team. Adam shares insights from his storied career, spanning motorsport, venture capital, and climate innovation. From his tenure at Williams F1 to co-founding impactful ventures like Downforce Trust, Adam brings a global perspective to leadership, innovation, and the interplay between academia and business. (00:00) - Oxford+ S2 E7 Adam Parr
(00:18) - Meet Adam Parr: From Formula One to Venture Capital
(02:14) - Journey to Williams Formula One Team
(04:24) - Challenges and Insights...
2025-01-0637 minHeart of MotionEmbracing Authenticity: Marketing, Movement, and Midlife TransformationWhat if you could align your business strategies with your true self, creating a life that reflects your core values and desires? Join me as I sit down with the influential Donna Cravotta, founder of Cravotta Media Group and the Be Visible Club Mastermind, to uncover the magic of authentic marketing and connection.Discover how Donna's transformative journey toward authenticity has reshaped not only her business but also her personal life, allowing her to forge genuine relationships and enhance visibility through meaningful engagement rather than superficial tactics. Together, we explore the parallels between movement and marketing, championing...
2024-12-0232 minOxford+Risk and Reward in Early-Stage Tech Investments with George Robinson, Founding Partner of Oxford Investment ConsultantsIn this episode, Susannah de Jager is joined by George Robinson, founding partner of Oxford Investment Consultants (OIC). Established in 2015, OIC has directed substantial investments into early-stage technology and biotech companies originating from Oxford and other UK universities, particularly focusing on high-potential, innovative spinouts. The conversation explores Robinson's journey from investing in listed equities in Asia to championing early-stage technology ventures in the UK. Throughout the episode, George shares insights into the challenges of university spinouts, discussing the complexities of evaluating new technologies, the strategic importance of assembling a well-rounded team, and the essential qualities he seeks...
2024-11-1841 minOxford+Charting Fresh Career Paths with Sue Douglas, Co-Founder of VeerIn this episode, Susannah de Jager is joined by Sue Douglas, Co-Founder of Veer, a pioneering journalist and media consultant turned tech entrepreneur. Through their conversation, Sue brings a fresh perspective to the Oxford innovation landscape, drawing from her experience in journalism and her new venture, Veer—a machine learning start-up which focuses on transforming the recruitment process by shifting the emphasis from traditional experience to an individual's skills, ambitions, and potential. Sue shares the inspiration behind Veer, her journey back into academia, and the role AI can play in uncovering career paths that align mo...
2024-11-0433 minOxford+From Oxford MBA to Startup CEO with Lily Elsner, Co-Founder of Jack FertilityIn this episode, Susannah de Jager welcomes Lily Elsner, CEO and Co-Founder of Jack Fertility. The conversation explores Lily’s journey from the US, to becoming a startup founder in Oxford. Lily shares her experiences across various roles in Oxford, highlighting how the support ecosystem within Oxford helped to shape her entrepreneurial path. The conversation also focuses on Jack Fertility, how the service aims to address male infertility, the hurdles faced by female founders, the potential for more integrated ecosystems in Oxford and the importance of gender inclusivity in business leadership(00:00) - Introduction to Male Infertility
(00:26...
2024-10-2142 minOxford+Navigating Market Dynamics with Marcus Stuttard, Head of AIM and UK Primary Markets at The London Stock ExchangeIn this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager speaks with Marcus Stuttard, Head of AIM and UK Primary Markets at the London Stock Exchange. The conversation centres around the evolving regulatory landscape for small and medium-sized businesses seeking public listings, focusing on AIM, the London Stock Exchange’s market for growth companies. Stuttard also shares insights on liquidity in UK markets, the significance of the Mansion House Compact, and the potential of regulatory changes, such as MIFID II adjustments, to improve market access and investment opportunities for smaller companies.(1:16) Understanding AIM and Market Reforms(5:04) The UK...
2024-10-0739 minOxford+Harnessing Local and Global Talent with Sarah Haywood, Managing Director of Advanced OxfordIn this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager is joined by the Managing Director of Advanced Oxford, Sarah Haywood, to explore talent retention and the challenges faced by businesses in attracting global talent due. Sarah also conveys the need for investment, the role of local and international investors, and potential policy changes to support economic growth through science and innovation. (1:34) Understanding Advanced Oxford(7:18) Challenges and Opportunities in Oxfordshire(16:54) Talent Retention and Education(23:57) Resources to Aid Engagement(37:31) Looking to the FutureAbout the guest:Sarah Haywood is the Managing Director...
2024-09-2342 minOxford+Navigating Capital Markets with John Derrick, Managing Director of J.P. Morgan Private BankIn this episode of Oxford+, host Susannah de Jager is joined by John Derrick, J.P. Morgan Private Bank, to discuss the intricacies of European and U.S. capital markets, the importance of regulation, and the challenges faced by small and illiquid companies. The conversation also delves into the cultural differences in entrepreneurial aspirations between Europe and the U.S., highlighting the importance of failure in the U.S. as a part of the entrepreneurial journey as well as the UK's need for policy-led development to support infrastructure and energy security, emphasising the importance of coordinated efforts...
2024-09-0935 min
Design Clinic DownloadEpisode 11: Susannah Howe, DC DirectorEpisode 11 features an interview with Susannah Howe, the Design Clinic Director at Smith College. The interviewers are recent graduates Harriet Wright and Sophie Yates from the Zipline-DC2122 team. (Recorded August 2023)
2024-09-0725 minOxford+Season Two TrailerOxford+ is back for Season Two. This season will continue the conversation with investors, entrepreneurs and innovators, but will also focus on those new entrants to the ecosystem who are going to be changing the landscape in the coming months and years.Oxford+ takes you deep into the myths and truths of the Oxford investing landscape. Join your host, Susannah de Jager, as she interviews investors, influencers, and entrepreneurs who operate within and have an impact on the Oxford ecosystem.Visit our website to learn more and subscribe to our newsletter - oxfordplus.co.uk
2024-08-3001 minHeart of MotionDoing Hard Things with LoveIn this episode of the Heart of Motion podcast, I am thrilled to welcome Kristy Kilcup, a seasoned health and wellness professional with over 30 years of experience. Kristy recounts her inspiring journey of finding solace and self-assurance through sports and physical activity, despite facing struggles in academic settings. Join me as Kristy candidly shares the highs and lows of pushing her body to its limits and her evolving understanding of self-worth from her youth, through motherhood and into peri-menopause. Discover Kristy's transition from traditional fitness and coaching to hypnotherapy, specifically Rapid Transformational Therapy, and how it sparked h...
2024-08-2641 min