Shows
From the Factory FloorBuilding your startup talent pipelineWhen building a startup thinking about the talent you bring in to your business and your Employee Value Proposition is probably one of the furthest things from your mind. But bringing in the best (and most flexible) talent can be the difference on whether your business thrives or survives. On the podcast this week Nyree Trimbel spoke to Ruby Melling, founder of Talentloop about the importance of being strategic about the talent you bring in to your business, and why there's no such thing as 'too soon' How to hire well Working o...
2024-03-2129 minFrom the Factory FloorBuilding a Student Startup with Georgia GibsonOn the latest episode of From The Factory Floor we spoke to Georgia Gibson, founder of Youni who spotted an opportunity at university to help universities retain students through connecting people with passions. Georgia talks through; How she spotted an opportunity Finding a technical co-founder Generating traction and revenue Getting Angel Investment Connect with Georgia here Connect with Nyree here Find out more about Youni here ________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts w...
2024-03-1923 minFrom the Factory FloorCreating a scaling startup, bootstrap, low-code and selling with Sam RoyleToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Sam Royle from SoSquared on their journey and cover all things startup and boostrapping. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________ Thestartupfactory.tech can...
2024-02-2030 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Bootstrapping with Ian BrookesToday on FtFF Nyree catches up with Ian Brookes on their journey and cover all things startup and boostrapping. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________ Thestartupfactory.tech can be found here:
2024-02-1321 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Lead Sales with Matthew CoddToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Matthew Codd on their journey and how and when founders just approach early stage sales. We discuss everything from his background to the role of a founder in sales and what startups can expect when the bring a sales team onboard! Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and...
2024-02-0633 minFrom the Factory FloorDo you need a CTO for your startup? With Rob BowleyToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Rob Bowley on their journey and how he is now a fractional CTO for many startups in the North West. We discuss everything from his background to the role of a Fractional CTO and what startups can expect when the bring a fractional CTO on board! Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and...
2024-01-1623 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Stories: Gigmate with Rob MarchToday on FtFF James catches up with founder Rob March on their journey with their startup Gigmate. We discuss everything from their background to their current endeavour, where Gigmate fits in and its potential scale and next steps! Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitter
2023-12-1927 min
Fast Growth: The Venture Studio WayS2 E2: The Investor's Guide to Vetting AI Startups with Guy Remond and Aleksa VukoticWelcome to Fast Growth Funding.In this episode, Ivan Meakins is joined by two podcast regulars – Guy Remond and Aleksa Vukotic, CTO of thestartupfactory.tech. Together, they explore some tenets of AI investing, especially for non-tech investors. Discover what makes an AI startup truly investable. The key metrics to look at when vetting startups for long-term growth potential. And how to avoid getting burned as a first-time investor.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Ivan Meakins can be found here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ivan-meakins-8192497aGu...
2023-12-1338 minFrom the Factory FloorEarly Stage Angel Investing with Chris EarleToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Chris Earle. Chris shares his views on early-stage investment and what's important at those very early stages. Stay Tuned!!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________ Thestartupfactory.tech can...
2023-12-1225 minFrom the Factory FloorScaling an international business, with Harry Panter.Today on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Harry from Housr. Harry shares his entrepreneurial journey and how it has led to the creation of Housr, with all the ups and downs and sales tactics he's employed to get Housr to where it is today. Stay Tuned!!If you want to take Harry up on his kind offer to help founders on their journey's drop him an email at harry@housrapp.co.uk.________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with...
2023-11-0728 min
Evolution Exchange UKEvo UK #90 - Taking a Product from Conception to DeliveryJoin host Scott Hutchinson on this episode of Evo UK as he delves deep into the intricacies of taking a product from conception to delivery. Our esteemed guests, Paul Michaels, a Microsoft MVP and Head of Development at Music Magpie; Chris Diver, Director of IT at Scan Computers; and Aleksa Vukotic, Pragmatic CTO at TheStartUpFactory, share their invaluable insights. Explore the challenges, innovations, and strategies involved in product development. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the technology landscape, from Microsoft MVP expertise to pragmatic startup solutions. Stay tuned for a captivating conversation that unveils the secrets of successful product journeys.
2023-10-2535 minFrom the Factory FloorCoPerceptuo is LiveToday on FtFF James catches up with Andy Shuttleworth from the recently launched CoPerceptuo. It's been a while since we first spoke to Andy at the beginning of the project, so we catch-up on the process, the challenges and the changes throughout the process of building out and testing the MVP. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, a...
2023-09-2625 minFrom the Factory FloorPragmatic CTO: September 2023Today on FtFF James catches up with Aleksa Vukotic on the upcoming instalment of pragmatic CTO and what the attendees have to look forward to. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________ Thestartupfactory.tech can be...
2023-09-1916 minFrom the Factory FloorLooking After Your Tech Team Health with Emma-Louise FusariToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Emma-Louise Fusari from In House Health, on the importance of looking after your tech team and her journey from idea to successful business and her tips for looking after your own mental well-being as a founder. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the...
2023-08-2927 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Accelerators and Incubators, are they worth it?Today on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Jess Jackson from Praetura Ventures on the role of Incubators and Accelerators in the start-up ecosystem, what people should expect and how to spot a good one. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail...
2023-07-1826 minFrom the Factory FloorAdvisors and Non ExecsToday on FtFF Nyree and Ian catch up on the role and importance of your startup advisors and non-execs. Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________ Thestartupfactory.tech can be found here: Building...
2023-07-0423 min
Fast Growth: The Venture Studio WayS1 E9: Building Foundations for High Growth with Ian BrookesWelcome to Fast Growth Stories with EHE Capital.In today's episode, host Nyree Trimbel is joined by regular Guy Remond and they welcome back a special guest - Ian Brookes from thestartupfactory.tech.They discuss some of their shared history from the Cake Solutions days, as well as some of the lessons learned; why a company should respect itself and carry that energy moving forward; and how to build the foundations of a high-growth company.--------------------------------------------Nyree Trimbel can be found here:LinkedInGuy...
2023-06-1527 min
Fast Growth: The Venture Studio WayS1 E4: Due Diligence with James Brookes and Rupert RutledgeEntrepreneurs, are you fully prepared for due diligence?In today's episode of Fast Growth Stories, we are joined by James Brookes and Rupert Rutledge from thestartupfactory.tech. Together, we explore what due diligence entails from an entrepreneur's point of view.Join us as we delve into the three phases of technology-based due diligence. How it can help identify hidden problems that need clear solutions before potential investment rounds. And why due diligence should be embraced, not feared.--------------------------------------------Nyree Trimbel can be...
2023-05-1119 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Stories: VoxANN with Daniel Bottomley and David BilsboroughToday on FtFF James catches up with founder duo Daniel Bottomley and David Bilsborough on their journey with their startup VoxANN. We discuss everything from their background to their current endeavour, where VoxANN fits in and its potential scale and next steps! Stay Tuned!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.
2023-04-1822 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Stories: Chrono-Net with Brendan ChaplinToday on FtFF James catches up with founder Brendan Chaplin on their journey with his startup Chrono-Net. We discuss everything from his background and passion for watches, how he came up with the idea for Chrono-Net, and what's next in his startup journey!________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client....
2023-04-0422 minFrom the Factory FloorThe Value of The Value PropositionIn this week's episode, the usual crew are back with James, Nyree and Ian discussing the importance of the value proposition and some of the tools and techniques you can use to help build your startups value proposition.Watch this space as we also have an upcoming webinar where Ian will go into even more depth in this with some practical advice________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery...
2023-03-1424 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup PR with Martin BryantJames was out this week, so Nyree kindly stepped up to the host chair! She had the pleasure of welcoming Martin Bryant onto the show to cover all things startup and PR with topics ranging from what is actually newsworthy to relationships with journalists and news channels.________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with...
2023-02-2831 minFrom the Factory FloorSolo vs. Co-FoundersIn this week's episode, James, Nyree and Ian discuss one of the more interesting and difficult topics when beginning a startup, whether it's better to go it solo, or whether to have a cofounder come on board.Watch this space as we also have an upcoming webinar where Ian will go into even more depth in this with some practical advice________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases...
2023-02-1428 min
Extraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEp83: Introducing our Due Diligence ServiceThis week we're joined by Ian Brookes from thestartupfactory.tech as we talk to you about the Due Diligence service they offer to Investors. As Ian says 'handpicking a business that will succeed is one of the most challenging tasks you'll undertake.' Effective Due Diligence helps to lift the lid on your proposed investments, highlighting things that need to be addressed with a simple 'red/amber/green' system.On this podcast Guy and Ian talk more about the Due Diligence service offered by tsf.tech and highlight some of the key things bo...
2023-01-2531 minFrom the Factory FloorYour Startup KPIsIn this week's episode, James, Nyree and Ian discuss all things KPI. What you should and shouldn't be measuring, what goals should you be setting and much much more.If this isn't enough we also have a webinar coming up on just this topic:https://www.eventbrite.com/e/your-startup-kpis-tickets-494986145887?aff=ebdssbeac________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile...
2023-01-1926 minFrom the Factory FloorIntroduction to CoPerceptuoIn this week's episode, James to talks to tsf.tech's newest founder, Andy from CoPerceptuo and discuss how his startup will shake up the world of consulting.To get in touch with Andy reach out to him on here or check out their website here.________________________________________________________________________ James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with...
2022-12-1325 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Marketing with Nyree and IanToday on FtFF James catches up with founder of tsf.tech Ian and Marketing Expert Nyree Trimbel on one of the most critical parts of early stage startups and one of the 'dark arts' of beginning a start-up: Marketing.________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail...
2022-08-0936 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Sales with Ian BrookesToday on FtFF James catches up with founder of tsf.tech Ian on one of the most critical parts of early stage startups and one of the parts often people enjoy the least, Sales.________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________
2022-07-2638 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Culture with Mark Hartley from BankiFiToday on FtFF James and Aleksa catch up with Mark Hartley, founder of BankiFi. We discuss how BankiFi has grown as a company and the challenges around the founder journey as a company scales and how BankiFi have overcome that.________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitter...
2022-06-0840 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEpisode 66: The Pragmatic CTOIn today's episode, Nyree is joined by Guy and special guest, Aleksa Vukotic, who talks about being a Pragmatic CTO.Aleksa is the CTO of thestartupfactory.tech and also started the Pragmatic CTO community, who are having their next event on 16/6/2022 (details available here).In this episode, they discuss: why the role of technology is ever increasing and should be handled in the best possible way; how communities can play a vital role in supporting CTOs and tech teams; and why making sure that your messaging about technology doesn't...
2022-06-0220 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Wellness with Rhys JonesToday on FtFF James and Aleksa catch up with Rhys Jones, founder of FiTR. We discuss how important founder wellness is how founders can get help from FiTR to improve their wellness!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInTwitterEmail: jamesb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________...
2022-05-0424 minFrom the Factory FloorThe Reality of Fund Raising with David from Praetura VenturesToday on FtFF James and Aleksa catch up with David Foreman, MD and founder of Praetura Ventures. We discuss what is perceived by many as the dark arts of fundraising and discuss that it should be much more straightforward and how to approach fundraising from VCs________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.
2022-04-1235 minFrom the Factory FloorPersonal Branding with Ben Davies from Praetura VenturesToday on FtFF James and Nyree catch up with Ben Davies from Praetura Ventures. We discuss what is personal branding and why it's so important for startup founders to consider it as earlier as possible, with some tips on how to do it!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedIn
2022-03-1621 minFrom the Factory FloorWelcome to Pragmatic CTO with Aleksa VukoticToday on FtFF James catches up with tsf.tech CTO Aleksa Vukotic. We discuss tsf.tech's new side project 'The Pragmatic CTO' and what it is, who it's for and how it can help! Sign up for the event on Eventbrite here ________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedInT...
2022-03-0919 minFrom the Factory FloorWelcome to the Pragmatic CTOToday on FtFF James catches up with tsf.tech CTO Aleksa Vukotic. We discuss tsf.tech's new side project 'The Pragmatic CTO' and what it is, who it's for and how it can help! Sign up for the event on Eventbrite here ________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a...
2022-02-2119 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Stories: PLYtime with Ian and Lisa McCartneyToday on FtFF James catches up with founders Ian and Lisa McCartney on their journey with their startup PLYtime. We discuss everything from getting into tech as non-tech people, the ups and downs of startup life, investment and what their next steps are!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of the commercial relationship with a client.LinkedIn
2022-02-0223 minFrom the Factory FloorFrom Business Idea to Business Reality with AustinA new year is a great time to start a new idea but what do you do once you've got a killer business idea? James and Austin discuss advice for potential founders and how tsf approach solidifying an idea into a realityFor more info read Austin's blog here: https://thestartupfactory.tech/four-questions-which-help-turn-your-startup-vision-into-a-reality/________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses...
2022-01-1422 minFrom the Factory FloorMovvle App Goes Live with Paul CoombesThis is our thirty-fifth episode. Today we get an insight into the mindset of one of our founders Paul Coombes. Paul is the founder of Movvle which is one of the original projects we worked on at tsf.tech and has just launched his new app on the Apple and Google stores -https://www.movvle.com/________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile...
2021-11-1019 minFrom the Factory FloorFrom student, to intern, to engineer with Lucas Diaz FiolThis is our thirty-fourth episode. Today we get an insight into the mindset and differences from being a student at manchester university to being an intern and then an employee with tsf.tech with our newest team member Lucas Diaz Fiol________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with hands-on fundraising experience of c£64m via PLUS, AIM, FTSE, and VC/PE.
2021-10-1321 minFrom the Factory FloorBecoming a Founder at 56This is our thirty-third episode. Today we get an insight into why coaching is so vital with insights from Lesley Calland, the founder of tsf.tech's client MyOnlineCoach!!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with hands-on fundraising experience of c£64m via PLUS, AIM, FTSE, and VC/PE.LinkedInTwitterEmail:ianb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________
2021-09-2228 minFrom the Factory FloorFounder Duos with Fuzzy LabsThis is our thirty-second episode. Today we get an insight into what it's like setting up a startup as a founder duo with our good friends at Fuzzy Labs: Matt Squire and Tom Stockton. ________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with hands-on fundraising experience of c£64m via PLUS, AIM, FTSE, and VC/PE.LinkedInTwitterEmail:ia...
2021-08-1128 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Marketing with Nyree TrimbelThis is our thirty-first episode. Today we get an insight into marketing in a startup with thestartupfactory.tech's newest team member and marketing whizz, Nyree Trimbel ________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with hands-on fundraising experience of c£64m via PLUS, AIM, FTSE, and VC/PE.LinkedInTwitterEmail:ianb@thestartupfactory.tech________________________________________________________________________James Br...
2021-07-0732 minFrom the Factory FloorJoining a FinTech Start Up with Rebecca BirtThis is our thirtieth episode. Today we get an insight into joining a FinTech startup from someone who has been there and done it - Rebecca Birt, the financial controller at Nivohub ________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with hands-on fundraising experience of c£64m via PLUS, AIM, FTSE, and VC/PE.LinkedInTwitterEmail:ianb@thestartupfactory.tech
2021-06-0929 minFrom the Factory FloorWhat We Look For In A FounderThis is our twenty-ninth episode. We get approached by many aspiring entrepreneurs looking for help and advice. Today Ian and I discuss what we look for in the people that approach us!If you think you fit the bill get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board me...
2021-06-0223 minFrom the Factory FloorManaging Your Start Up Cash FlowThis is our twenty-eighth episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes welcome Elliot Smith.Elliot is the founder and director of Streamline Accountancy, and shares some fascinating insights into cash flow and how to manage it.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade wo...
2021-05-2629 minFrom the Factory FloorLearning From Your Tech MistakesThis is our twenty-seventh episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes welcome Gavin Bell. Gavin is the Senior Investment Partner at Maven Capital Partners, an independent alternative asset manager.Gavin discusses the importance of due diligence. It can play a massive role for companies and is a multi-layered area that can often take up months of time, so it is best to be prepared in advance. Gavin highlights a few actions that can help entrepreneurs get organised.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and se...
2021-05-1923 minFrom the Factory FloorWhat Investors Look For In Fundraising Due Diligence with Gavin BellThis is our twenty-sixth episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes welcome Gavin Bell. Gavin is the Senior Investment Partner at Maven Capital Partners, an independent alternative asset manager.Gavin discusses the importance of due diligence. It can play a massive role for companies and is a multi-layered area that can often take up months of time, so it is best to be prepared in advance. Gavin highlights a few actions that can help entrepreneurs get organised.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and se...
2021-05-1230 minFrom the Factory FloorLeading a Fintech in its First 3 Years with Michael CommonThis is our twenty-fifth episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes are delighted to welcome Michael Common. Michael is the CEO of Nivo, a fintech customer service solution.Michael talks about his journey from corporate world to fintech start up; his surprise at how slowly established banking institutions have reacted to the fintech revolution; and what work still needs to be done in the future.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in...
2021-05-0527 minFrom the Factory FloorElon Musk as a FounderThis is our twenty-fourth episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes are delighted to welcome back Guy Remond. Guy is a founder and non-exec at thestartupfactory.tech - and in this episode, we talk about one of his personal entrepreneurial heroes, Elon Musk.Elon Musk is a controversial figure, but one who has propelled various organisations - including Tesla and SpaceX - to the top of their field. We dissect his various merits, and why he happens to be so divisive.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack yo...
2021-04-2828 minFrom the Factory FloorThe Role of a CTO in a Tech StartUpThis is our twenty-third episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes are delighted to welcome Aleksa Vukotic. Aleksa is the Chief Technical Officer at thestartupfactory.tech - and so we pick his brain about what makes an ideal CTO in today's entrepreneurial landscape.We speak about how the role of a CTO can often diverge into two distinct areas: leading the technological charge; and communicating the vision internally and externally. We also discuss whether, if the product IS the tech, a CTO could one day become the CEO.Wherever you are on your startup journey...
2021-04-2125 minFrom the Factory FloorBeginning Your Start-Up Journey with Reece DouglasThis is our twenty-second episode. Today, myself and co-host Ian Brookes are delighted to welcome Reece Douglas. Reece is the Founder of Social Plug, a social media agency helping to connect businesses with the right influencers - in order to drive traffic, sales and engagement.We speak about how his time as a noted child actor made him question the harsher realities of "the real world"; why persistence is so crucial to the spirit of entrepreneurship; how a surprise cheque came at precisely the right moment; and why finding the right mentor is a strategic necessity.
2021-04-1436 minFrom the Factory FloorFrom Corporate to Startup World with Ian McCartneyThis is our twenty-first episode. Today, I've got two guests, Ian Brookes and Ian McCartney. Ian McCartney is the director of PLYT, a numeracy board game he invented when recovering from Lyme Disease.We speak about how he made his transition from the corporate world to entrepreneurship; how different corporations inhibit or promote business-building skills; and the benefits of being the captain of your own ship.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Ge...
2021-03-3130 minFrom the Factory FloorBuilding Your First Revenue BudgetThis is our twentieth episode. Today, I've got two guests, Ian Brookes and Elliot Smith. Elliot is the founder and director of Streamline Accountancy and shares some fascinating insights into the multiple ways the right budget can help an entrepreneur to thrive.We speak about how beginners can build a revenue budget; what some of the pitfalls might be; delve into the level of detail required.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Ge...
2021-03-2426 minFrom the Factory FloorAcademia to Founder with Tom McNamaraThis is our nineteenth episode. Today, I've got two guests, Ian Brookes and Tom McNamara of FreeUP, to elaborate on Tom's fascinating journey from 'Academia to Founder.' He explains how FreeUP started up and developed; what made Tom want to leave academia and venture into the world of entrepreneurship; and why taking such a bold step ended up being the best decision he had ever made.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in...
2021-03-1725 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Legals with Jon DavageThis is our eighteenth episode. Today, I've got two guests, Ian Brookes and Jon Davage, to speak about the vital issue of 'Startup Legals.' Knowing how to set up the legal structure from the beginning is incredibly important for entrepreneurs, and ideally should be handled by the right lawyer - not 'Google Law!'Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:
2021-03-1022 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 09: Unique Ability & Unique Ability TeamsIn today's episode, we will be talking about Unique Ability and the wonderful ways in which it can help identify strengths. Only 5% of the population know what their Unique Ability is and actually act on it - how do you become part of that 5%? Listen in to find out.Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with...
2021-03-0319 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 08: How To Structure The BoardIn today's episode, we will be talking about board structure and its composition.The role of a Chairperson is a vital link in the chain, and can even help smooth differences between board members, bringing them together to forge a bond.It is also crucial to find the right board member who is aligned with the strategic vision of the company... Can you 10x with people who don't believe it is possible?Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the...
2021-02-2421 minFrom the Factory FloorRole of a Non-ExecThis is our seventeenth episode. Today, I've got Ian and Guy, to speak about the importance of finding a great Non-Exec, what they can bring to the table and how the relationship can be nurtured going forward.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, in...
2021-02-1726 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 07: Support for the Entrepreneur At A Personal LevelIn today's episode, we will be talking about support for the entrepreneur at a personal level.This incorporates aspects like support from family members and, crucially, finding the right mentor.It can frequently make or break aspiring entrepreneurs and act as a wonderful network opportunity.Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with...
2021-02-1718 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 06: The Importance of FundingIn today's episode, we will be talking about Private Equity and the ways in which it commonly functions. There is also discussion about hidden fees that could potentially move the goalposts of a deal, and an explanation of the term "Pari-Passu".Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with over 35 residential & commercial properties.Founded modern...
2021-02-1024 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 05: Support For The Entrepreneur At A Business LevelIn today's episode, we will be talking all about support for the entrepreneur at a business level.________________________________________________________________________Guy Remond can be found here:LinkedInTwitterEmailGuy’s working career began in retail where he enjoyed an eleven-year stint in various managerial positions.Following this, he followed his passion for anything technical and branched out on his own into the technical world. In 2001 he was a founding member and CEO of Cake Solutions Limited and over the next 16 years, he directly oversaw the development of th...
2021-02-0316 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 04: How COVID Has Accelerated The Business WorldIn today's episode, we will be talking about how COVID has accelerated the business world. Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with over 35 residential & commercial properties.Founded modern Forest holidays and built the company from zero profits and sold 12 years later for 9 figures. Particular focus on company culture, people and service. “ we couldn’t find...
2021-01-2723 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 03: The Tech-Driven EconomyIn today's episode, we will be talking about the Tech-Driven Economy, why tech and tech-led companies will increasingly drive the economy in the future. Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with over 35 residential & commercial properties.Founded modern Forest holidays and built the company from zero profits and sold 12 years later for 9 figures. Particular focus o...
2021-01-2022 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 02: The Four Ms: How EHE Helps EntrepreneursIn today's episode, we will be talking about the four M's: Mentoring, Mindset, Membership, and Money. Find out how you can achieve Entrepreneurial Freedom. Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with over 35 residential & commercial properties.Founded modern Forest holidays and built the company from zero profits and sold 12 years later for 9 figures. Particular focus on...
2021-01-1316 minExtraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherEP 01: Welcome to Extraordinary Entrepreneurs TogetherWelcome to Extraordinary Entrepreneurs Together first episode ever! Today, we will be discussing all about EHE Capital, Gary and Guy's badges & scars, successes, and much more!Gary Fletcher can be found here:LinkedInEmailStarted life in the Sports & Leisure industry gaining experience in Leisure facilities, Franchising, UK Tourism of Holiday Parks, Golf and Hotels. Traded this for property acquisition and development building company with over 35 residential & commercial properties.Founded modern Forest holidays and built the company from zero profits and sold 12 years later for 9 figures. P...
2021-01-0617 minFrom the Factory FloorXmas Special: Rugby or FootballThis is our sixteenth episode. Today, I am joined by Ian, Guy, Eric, and Aleksa! This is our Xmas Special and we will be talking about which is better Rugby or Football? Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board mem...
2020-12-2336 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup AccountingThis is our fifteenth episode. Today, I am joined by Ian and Elliot, we will be talking all about Startup Accounting!Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of tech businesses and startups, with ha...
2020-12-1627 minFrom the Factory FloorGetting into TechThis is our fourteenth episode. Today, I am joined by the newest member of TSF, Austin Booth. Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all asp...
2020-12-0923 minFrom the Factory FloorStart Up MarketingThis is our thirteenth episode. Today, I am joined by the lovely Georgia Kirke and Guy Remond. Today is all about Marketing! Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes an...
2020-12-0225 minFrom the Factory FloorCompany CultureThis is our twelfth episode. Today, I am joined again by Aleksa and Guy! This week, we will be talking about Company Culture.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility fo...
2020-11-2533 minFrom the Factory FloorAgile ProcessesThis is our eleventh-episode. Today, I am joined again by Ian Brookes! This week, we will be talking about Agile Processes.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and re...
2020-11-1825 minFrom the Factory FloorBuilding A Tech TeamThis is our tenth-episode. Today, I am very kindly joined again by Aleksa Vukotic andGuy Remond who can tell us all about Building a Tech Team.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for ag...
2020-11-1132 minFrom the Factory FloorEngineering ProcessThis is our ninth-episode. Last week we spoke about Tech Choices and what considerations you need to make. This week, we will talk about the engineering process. Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with re...
2020-11-0429 minFrom the Factory FloorTech ChoicesThis is our eight-episode. Today, I am very kindly joined again by Aleksa Vukotic and Eric Carter who are technical people who can tell us all about this week's topic which is all about Tech Choices.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential cl...
2020-10-2825 minFrom the Factory FloorCloud Tech 101This is our seventh episode. Today, I am very kindly joined again by Aleksa Vukotic and Eric Carter who are technical people who can tell us all about this week's topic which is all about the Cloud Tech.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a...
2020-10-2127 minFrom the Factory FloorTechnical Architecture 101This is our sixth episode. Today, I am very kindly joined by Aleksa Vukotic and Eric Carter who are technical people who can tell us all about this week's topic which is all about the tech and the architecture.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting wi...
2020-10-1429 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup SprintsThis is our fifth episode. Today, we've got Ian Brookes again and we will be discussing How can you find your problem-solution-market fit in the shortest time?The answer is thestartupfactory.tech's own Startup Sprint. The Startup Sprint takes looks to take the principles from the Lean Startup and condense these into a 10-day process to go from the ideation stage through to a first draft development roadmap and architecture.Find out how we can help you quickly develop your idea all the way through to prototype and business plan.Wherever you are...
2020-10-0724 minFrom the Factory FloorProduct Roadmapping And Tech VisionToday, we've got Aleksa Vukotic TSF Chief Technical Officer. We will be discussing Product Roadmapping and tech vision.Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________James Brookes can be found here:James is Head of Projects, a role that starts with the first meeting with a potential client, through project inception and delivery phases with responsibility for agile processes and resourcing, and encompasses all aspects of th...
2020-09-3034 minFrom the Factory FloorDefining Your MVPToday, we've got Ian Brookes together with TSF Head Engineer, Eric Carter. We will be discussing what MVP is all about and how to define your Minimum Viable Product for growth. Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a...
2020-09-2331 minFrom the Factory FloorStartup Thinking: Ideation, Prototyping and TestingThis is our second episode. Today we've got Ian Brookes again, we want to talk about the very start of the startup journey, which is all about the ideation, prototyping, testing. Basically everything that you need to do before you ready to start thinking about what a potential MVP or Minimum Viable Product. Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:
2020-09-1628 minFrom the Factory FloorWelcome to from the factory floorToday, I've got two guests to really speak about how we've come to this decision to make a podcast, what we do and what you can expect going forward. Wherever you are on your startup journey, get in touch, and let’s unpack your thinking together and see where we can help turn your idea into a reality. Get in touch!________________________________________________________________________Ian Brookes can be found here:The founding father of tsf.tech, Ian has spent the last decade working as a co-founder, investor, and board member/advisor with a number of...
2020-09-0924 min