Ideas Club

About Ideas Club

Big (or small) ideas and inspiration as well as interviews with indie creative types doing really cool stuff. Like a run club for your mind meeting every two weeks on Wednesday. From the independent minds at Good Space.

Publisher

Good Space

Category

arts · business · education

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

3 Jun 2025

Latest episode

11 Feb 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   11 Feb 2026

   The real way to build community through content with Maya Karan

   Please note this is our season 1 finale episode, we will be back with an updated format for season 2 soon. In the mean time, why not watch some of our other episodes from season one? They are all available now on our page. 🔎 Episode Summary In this episode, David and Jamie sits down with Maya Karan, Good Space’s Content Marketing Lead (and newest employee), for a wide-ranging conversation on work, community, creativity and what it really feels like to enter the workforce in a post-COVID world. Maya shares her perspective as a Gen Z professional navigating hybrid work, content creation and brand building. She reflects on why fully remote work can feel isolating early in a career, why in-person connection still matters deeply, and how shared space, casual conversations and even making coffee together shape stronger teams and better creative work. The conversation explores the difference between marketing and genuine community-building, how trust is earned online, and why brands that feel human, imperfect and values-led are the ones people want to support. From creator-led content to the future of social media, Maya offers thoughtful insight into where attention is going, and where it’s quietly leaving. This episode is a grounded, honest reflection on modern work, digital culture and why real connection still matters more than ever. Host: David Brown & Jamie Dundas Guest: Maya Karan – Content Marketing Lead, Good Space 🧠 Key Takeaways Why In-Person Still Matters: For those early in their careers, learning how to work is just as important as doing the work. Being around people accelerates confidence, collaboration and growth in ways screens can’t replicate. Community Isn’t a Buzzword: True community-building goes beyond targeted marketing. It’s about making people feel seen, understood and part of something bigger than a transaction. Trust Is Built Through Enjoyment & Consistency: Whether it’s a creator or a brand, trust grows when people genuinely enjoy what they do, stick to their values and show up consistently over time. Creativity Over Perfection: In a fast-moving content landscape, scrappy, honest experimentation often resonates more than polished campaigns. Imperfection can be a strength. The Push & Pull of Social Media: While social platforms continue to grow, there’s a rising awareness of their limits. Attention is fragmenting, and physical, tactile experiences are quietly becoming more valuable again. 🛠️ Tools, Models & Ideas Explored Human-led brand building Community vs. marketing Creator trust and authenticity Hybrid work and creative collaboration Casual, experimental content strategies The future of social media and attention 💡 Best Quote "Brands are human. There's someone behind the brand. think there's been a big rise in human led brand building and I think people connect with the idea that a brand is not a logo, but it's a team.” 💬 Connect With Ideas Club 📨 Newsletter: https://good.space/ideas-club 🌟 Join the community for founders, freelancers and creators who believe — ideas will save you.

2. 

   28 Jan 2026

   What Happens When Survivors Lead the Change

   🔎 Episode Summary In this episode, Jamie and David sit down with Thomas Keown, founder of Many Hopes, a survivor-led nonprofit working across Africa and Latin America to rescue children from abuse and exploitation. The organisation supports them into adulthood as leaders and change-makers. Thomas shares an extraordinary personal journey. He discusses how he grew up during the Troubles in Northern Ireland, worked on delivering the Good Friday Agreement and shares how those early experiences with conflict, injustice and reconciliation shaped his view of leadership, patience and long-term change. From a chance encounter with a Kenyan journalist in Mombasa to an accidental meeting that sparked the creation of Many Hopes, this conversation traces how purpose often emerges without a master plan. In this episode, we explore what it really takes to build an organisation slowly, ethically and sustainably, resisting pressure to scale fast, learning from painful mistakes and keeping identity separate from mission to avoid burnout. This episode is a powerful reflection on leadership, trust, and why investing deeply in a few can eventually transform the many. Hosts: Jamie Dundas and David Brown - Good Space Guest: Thomas Keown - Founder of Many Hopes 🧠 Key Takeaways From Northern Ireland to Global Justice: Thomas’ upbringing during the Troubles taught him that pain can either perpetuate conflict or inspire a different way forward, a lesson that now underpins Many Hopes’ survivor-led model. Accidental Beginnings, Enduring Purpose: Many Hopes didn’t start with a grand vision or strategy deck. It began with people asking a simple question: “Is there something I can do?” Purpose emerged through action, not planning. Rescue Is Only the Beginning: Many Hopes doesn’t just remove children from harm, it commits to walking with them for years, equipping survivors with education, stability and character so they can one day help others. Scaling Slowly to Scale Well: The organisation spent its first decade working in one country, refining its model before expanding. Trust in local, survivor-led partners is both its greatest strength and greatest risk. Leadership, Identity & Burnout: Thomas reflects candidly on mistakes: hiring missteps, moving too fast, and tying his personal identity too closely to the organisation. 🛠️ Tools, Models & Ideas Explored Survivor-led change as a long-term development model Slow growth as a strategy for excellence and trust Deep investment in people over rapid expansion Monthly giving as a foundation for sustainable impact 💡 Best Quote “History takes a long time to happen overnight.” 🔗 Connect With Many Hopes 🌐 Website: https://manyhopes.org 🎥 Watch The Rising film: https://youtu.be/-g-mrZsrga4 💬 Connect With Ideas Club 📨 Newsletter: https://good.space/ideas-club 🌟 Join the community for founders, freelancers and creators who believe — ideas will save you.

3. 

   17 Dec 2025

   How to scale your business without selling your soul with James Rutter

   🔎 Episode Summary In this episode, Jamie and David sit down with James Rutter — the creative and strategic mind who helped scale COOK from a £30m family-run food brand to a £130m certified B Corp, all while deepening culture, protecting quality, and refusing to “sell the soul” of the business. James shares how his early career in journalism shaped his obsession with stories, why people-first companies win in the long run, and how the “Big Relationships” model (unity, clarity, appreciation) has become the backbone of COOK’s culture. He also breaks down strategy in a way that feels human and energising — not corporate, confusing, or abstract. If you care about culture, purpose, or growing a company without losing the magic, this one is packed with insights. Hosts: Jamie Dundas & David Brown Guest: James Rutter – Strategist, writer, longtime culture-builder at COOK, and founder of JamesRutter.com 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. From Journalism to COOK - Following Curiosity, Not a Masterplan James never intended to work in food. But his journalistic instinct eventually led him to COOK, where he discovered that culture is one giant “story of us.” 2. Big Relationships → Big Results At the heart of COOK’s growth is a simple model: • Unity – we’re in this together • Clarity – know what you’re doing and why • Appreciation – acknowledge people sincerely and often This framework acts as a diagnostic tool for almost every challenge a team faces. 3. Scaling With Soul COOK grew from 400 to 2,000 people without venture capital - on purpose. Slow, steady, values-aligned growth protected product quality and culture. Strategy wasn’t about domination, it was about staying true, staying consistent, and staying human. 4. Storytelling as a Cultural Engine Small, everyday stories build belonging far more than grand narratives. James helps teams notice meaningful moments and use them to reinforce culture. 5. Strategy Isn’t Complicated — It’s Choice Good strategy is simply deciding where to play and how to win, and sticking to it. James breaks strategy down into: • Clarity — what creates value • Persistence — staying committed • Courage — choosing one path and closing off others It’s not about predicting the future; it’s about increasing the odds you’ll succeed. 🛠️ Tools, Models & Ideas James Uses • Big Relationships Model: Unity, clarity, appreciation • Storyworthy’s Homework for Life: A daily practice for noticing meaningful story moments • Playing to Win (Laffley & Martin): A strategy framework built on choice • Seven Powers (Helmer): Understanding where true advantage comes fro 💡 Best Quote “Big results come from big relationships. A business is just people coming together to do something they couldn’t do alone.” 🔗 Connect With James Rutter 🌐 Website: https://www.james-rutter.com/ (https://www.james-rutter.com/) 💬 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/james-rutter-8972079 (https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-rutter-8972079) 💬 Connect With Ideas Club 📨 Newsletter: https://good.space/ideas-club (https://good.space/ideas-club) 🌟 Join the community for founders, freelancers and creators who believe — ideas will save you.

4. 

   3 Dec 2025

   Success from the pitch to the pub with Alistair Hargreaves

   In this episode, David and Jamie sit down with Alistair Hargreaves, former Saracens rugby player and co-founder of Wolfpack, to explore his unlikely leap from professional sport into building one of London’s most beloved independent pub brands. Hargreaves reflects on the “cliff edge” faced by every athlete, the pressure of figuring out life after sport, and how desperation, resilience and camaraderie paved the way for a completely new chapter. The conversation unpacks the mindset behind reinvention, the realities of starting a business with zero industry experience, and the culture-first approach that has helped Wolfpack grow from a double-decker bus pouring pints to a thriving network of pubs with a devoted community. Hargreaves shares candid, thoughtful perspectives on leadership, brand building and the joy of creating spaces where people genuinely feel at home. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Life After Sport & the Power of Reinvention Alistair speaks openly about the moment every athlete faces — the unavoidable “cliff edge” where your sporting career ends and real-life decisions begin. His shift into business wasn’t driven by a polished plan but by urgency, curiosity and a desire to put his sporting values to use beyond the pitch. Resilience, discipline and teamwork became the transferable skills that shaped his next chapter. 2. The Birth of Wolfpack Wolfpack began as a simple idea: serve beer to a captive audience of rugby fans from a converted double-decker bus. Early feedback taught Alistair and co-founder Chris that skills from rugby had value — but only if tested outside the sport. That became the catalyst for action. What started as post-training pub chats evolved into supplying local venues and eventually opening their own spaces across London. 3. Building a Brand Bigger Than Its Founders Rather than relying on their reputations as rugby players, Alistair and Chris intentionally built Wolfpack as a brand with its own identity, rooted in community Wolfpack’s culture — not fame — became its engine. 4. Community as the Heart of the Business Alistair discusses why Wolfpack pubs feel like neighbourhood anchors: places where people of all ages gather, connect and feel part of something local. From pouring pints on doorsteps during lockdown to nurturing spaces where everyone feels welcome, community is not a buzzword — it’s lived practice. 5. Entrepreneurship: Grit, Naivety & Taking Punches Alistair describes entrepreneurship as equal parts courage and naivety — the willingness to jump in before you feel ready. He reflects on weathering tough seasons, taking hits, and staying resilient long enough to find a way through. His advice: avoid the “grey zone” of hesitation. Commit fully, embrace discomfort, and surround yourself with good people. 🧭 Alistair’s Invitation Lean in, take the leap, and trust that the skills you’ve built, whatever world they came from, can shape something meaningful in the next chapter. 📖 Featured Quote “The strength of the wolf is in the pack — it’s all about togetherness.” — Alistair Hargreaves 🍺 Wolfpack Explore Wolfpack and their venues: https://wolfpacklager.com/ Follow Wolfpack on Instagram: @wolfpacklager

5. 

   19 Nov 2025

   Building a Brand with Authenticity and Staying in Your Lane w/ Proudlock

   In this episode, David and Jamie sit down with Oliver Proudlock, sharing his journey from an unexpected start in reality television to becoming a successful multi-business owner. Proudlock opens up about the pivotal moments that shaped his worldview, including his parents' bankruptcy and his mother's unconventional creative spirit, and how these experiences fuel his commitment to authenticity and a strong work ethic today. The conversation offers a deep dive into the delicate balance between professional ambition and personal life, particularly the desire to be a present father. He explains the driving force behind his businesses, Serge DeNimes and QV. He emphasises the importance of community, long-term relationships and staying true to yourself in the face of a rapidly changing digital landscape. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. Joining Reality TV Proudlock recounts his struggle with the "hardest decision" to join Made in Chelsea for the platform it could provide his fledgling brand. The philosophy that changed his mind: "You regret the things you don't do in life a lot more than the things you do do". Maintaining authenticity on the show by avoiding the centre stage to avoid drama and ensure his family and friends could be proud of him. 2. The Dual-Sided Motivation Inspired by his creative mother, Proudlock developed a tendency to "juggle" multiple things. His drive for having multiple ventures stems from seeing his parents go bankrupt and a need to be financially secure for the future. He is learning to juggle less in his workspace to focus on what brings the most joy and reward, allowing more time to be present with his kids and wife. 3. The Power of Authenticity in Business His personal mantra for business: "Love it, live it" Authenticity is the most important thing for the content he shares, ensuring it is intertwined in his real life, not a set-up scenario. His fashion sense, influenced by his mother, is a "super power", being brave enough to stand out and not care about what other people think. 4. Navigating the Digital Realm The importance of building relationships and fostering community through brands like Serge DeNimes. His advice for a 22-year-old creative, lean in, go all in and follow your gut instinct. The key to mitigating burnout is authenticity and staying in your own "lane," avoiding comparison with what everyone else is doing. 🧭 Proudlock's Invitation Go all in on your idea, believing that the pieces will come together, even if you make mistakes. Check out Serge DeNimes here: https://www.sergedenimes.com/?srsltid=AfmBOoo19fwDOWK2gQsiszXQM7ZvYW2DyJ-ZhBfdJRBKfIM3ni-wvvPz Look at his wine here Quatre Vin (wine): Follow Ollie on Instagram - @proudlock 📖 Featured Quote "You regret the things you don't do in life a lot more than the things you do do." - Oliver Proudlock 📚 Mentioned in this Episode Serge DeNimes Quatre Vin (Ollie's wine brand) Made in Chelsea Help I'm a Parent

6. 

   5 Nov 2025

   What if everyone had access to great food and people to eat it with? w/ Tom Herbert

   💡 Episode Summary In this inspiring and heartfelt episode, Jamie and David sit down with Tom Herbert, fifth-generation baker, author, and social entrepreneur behind The Long Table — a pioneering community restaurant built around the question: “What if everyone in our community had access to great food and people to eat it with?” Tom shares his personal and professional journey — from growing up in a family bakery and co-hosting the TV series The Fabulous Baker Brothers, to stepping away from his business to start a movement focused on radical hospitality, social connection, and meaningful community. Together, they explore creativity, leadership, burnout, faith, and the tension between purpose and practicality. This episode is a soulful look at how what we love can serve what the world needs. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways 1. The Origins of The Long Table A restaurant built around community, dignity, and shared meals. “Pay as you can” dining as an act of trust, inclusion, and regeneration. Reimagining hospitality as a space for belonging rather than exclusivity. 2. From Baker to Changemaker Tom’s journey from Hobbs House Bakery and The Fabulous Baker Brothers to social enterprise. How dyslexia, creativity, and curiosity shaped his leadership. The moment of transition: leaving family legacy to pursue a deeper calling. 3. Leading with Openness The challenge of building something bigger than yourself. Holding vision lightly so others can color it in. Leadership as “soft front, strong back” — strength with vulnerability. 4. Balancing Purpose and Practicality How The Long Table sustains itself as a social enterprise. “Clear is kind” — being transparent about costs and value. Growing “at the speed of trust” and staying agile in community work. 5. The Power of Food to Heal and Connect Meals as moments of deep humanity and shared story. From loneliness to belonging — food as social glue. “If you have more than enough, build longer tables, not higher walls.” 🧭 Tom’s Invitation Tom encourages listeners to: Eat with someone new. Invite others to your table. Visit The Long Table in the Cotswolds and experience it firsthand. Support the movement by becoming a Friend of The Long Table or hosting a Longest Table event in your own community. 📖 Featured Quote “How might what I love be in service of what is needed?” – Tom Herbert 📚 Mentioned in this Episode The Long Table – thelongtableonline.com (https://thelongtableonline.com) Do Wild Baking (Do Book Co.) – by Tom Herbert The Grace Network – supporting social enterprise in the Cotswolds 🕊️ Closing Reflection Tom ends the episode reading from Do: Wild Baking, a poetic invitation to gather, cook, and reconnect with the wild and with one another: “It’s satisfying and I breathe out. I catch the eye of the others and we begin to talk more freely. It feels good to be known… We know what it is to be truly alive.”

7. 

   22 Oct 2025

   Lessons from the Oscars to create content that converts w/ Josh Spector

   🎙️ Ideas Club Podcast #11 – Josh Spector: How to Get Clients From Your Content Hosts: Jamie Dundas & David Brown Guest: Josh Spector – Writer, strategist, and creator of For The Interested newsletter 🔎 Episode Summary In this episode, Jamie and David sit down with Josh Spector — a digital strategist who spent nearly a decade running social media and marketing for The Oscars before building his own successful brand helping creators and businesses get clients from their content. Josh shares how to turn content into clients, the secrets behind his popular newsletter For The Interested, and why most people overpay for social media management but underpay for strategy. It’s a masterclass in simplifying your content system, creating transformation for your audience, and making marketing actually work. 🧠 Key Takeaways 1. From The Oscars to Entrepreneurs Josh managed digital media for The Oscars for five years and learned that the same principles that drive millions of viewers can help small creators grow — it’s all about providing value and transformation. 2. The “Everything is Content” Mindset Every conversation, sent email, or idea can become content. Most people talk about doing things — Josh encourages doing and sharing what you learn. Treat your content library as reusable assets: one good idea can become 10 posts. 3. Why Strategy Beats Execution Many brands hire people to “post more,” but without a clear strategy, it’s wasted effort. The right question isn’t what should we post? but how will this help us reach our business goals? 4. How to Get Clients From Content Josh’s golden questions: What’s your ultimate business goal? Who do you need to reach to achieve it? What do those people value? How can you give them that for free in your content? Focus on transformation, not promotion. 5. Newsletter Growth & Retention Tips Don’t make newsletters too long — shorter and consistent beats long and sporadic. Improving content ≠ growing subscribers — growth requires a separate, active strategy. The best subject line? Building trust so people open it because it’s from you. Move your key calls-to-action (like booking a tour or product link) higher up — don’t bury them. 🛠️ Tools, Systems & Habits Josh Uses For The Interested Newsletter: 32,000+ subscribers; actionable daily and weekly editions. Workflowy: To capture content ideas instantly. Content Reuse: About 75% of what he publishes has been shared before — repurposing is key. 💡 Best Quote “If someone reads your content and can do something afterwards that they couldn’t do before — that’s value.” 🔗 Connect With Josh 🌐 Website: https://joshspector.com/ ✉️ Newsletter: https://fortheinterested.com/subscribe/ 💬 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/joshspector (https://linkedin.com/in/joshspector) 💡 Membership: https://joshspector.com/program/ 💬 Connect With Ideas Club 📨 Newsletter: https://good.space/ideas-club 💡 Join the community for creators, freelancers, and founders who believe — ideas will save you.

8. 

   8 Oct 2025

   Don’t Tell Dad: Building a Neighbourhood Spot Full of Mischief, Love & Great Food with Dan Land

   Episode Summary In this episode, we sit down with the founder of Don’t Tell Dad, Queen’s Park’s much-loved bakery-restaurant that’s become both a local hub and a brand built on story, mischief, and heart. From the playful name to the deep personal history behind it, our guest shares how the restaurant was inspired by his sister Leslie, a tragic loss that sparked a new way of living and creating. We explore what it means to design a space that feels like the neighborhood’s living room, how brand values show up in every little touchpoint—from the hoarding to the website “Don’t Click Me” button—and why hospitality at its best is equal parts love, chaos, and play. Whether you’re a food lover, a budding entrepreneur, or someone who cares about how place and community connect, this conversation is full of honesty, insight, and laughter. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The layered meaning behind the name Don’t Tell Dad—and why mischief is central to the brand. How grief and loss can become the foundation for creating something life-giving. The lessons learned from founding and selling Coco di Mama, and why brand is more than just colors and logos. The role of neighborhood restaurants in shaping daily life and community identity. The importance of “every touchpoint” in hospitality, from glassware to newsletters. Why balance, family, and joy matter as much as growth and performance. Links & Mentions Don’t Tell Dad, Queen’s Park (https://www.donttelldad.co.uk/) Book: Eating the Big Fish by Adam Morgan (amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Eating-Big-Fish-Challenger-Compete/dp/0470238275)) Book: What Great Brands Do by Denise Lee Yohn (amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/What-Great-Brands-Brand-Building-Principles/dp/111861125X)) Book: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara (amazon (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573)) Episode Highlights (00:00) Warming up & recording the “backstage” chatter (05:12) The story behind the name “Don’t Tell Dad” (12:45) Losing Leslie and finding purpose through hospitality (24:30) Brand as story, not just design (38:55) Lessons from Coco di Mama and the “energy” brand insight (52:10) Mischief, chaos, and the sibling spirit in the brand (01:05:20) Building for the neighborhood, not just footfall (01:15:00) What makes a great brand experience If you enjoyed this episode, please share it with a friend, leave us a review, and of course—if you’re in London, head to Queen’s Park and treat yourself to the legendary hazelnut brown butter croissant at Don’t Tell Dad. Sign up to be part of the Ideas Club - https://good.space/ideas-club (https://good.space/ideas-club)

9. 

   24 Sept 2025

   Looking after your creative health w/ Parul Bivishi of London Writers' Salon

   🎙️ Ideas Club Podcast – Episode with Parul Bavishi (London Writers' Salon) In this episode, David and Jamie speak with Parul Bavishi about the journey of creating the London Writers' Salon, a global writing community that helps writers find their voice, stay accountable, and connect with others. Parul shares insights into how Writers’ Hour was born during the pandemic, why creative communities matter, and how writing can become a daily ritual for well-being as well as creative output. Key Topics Discussed: Origins of the London Writers' Salon and its early experiments in 2019. The launch of Writers’ Hour during the pandemic and how it became the heartbeat of the community. Challenges of scaling while keeping a sense of closeness and care. The definition of “community” and how to cultivate many-to-many connections. Writing as a practice: overcoming self-doubt, resistance, and imposter syndrome. Advice and habits from writers including Steven Pressfield, Julia Cameron, Gretchen Rubin, and Kate Mosse. The balance between running a business and nurturing personal creativity. Parul’s own journey into writing more publicly, including her experiments on LinkedIn. Takeaways: Writing communities thrive when they emphasize connection, accountability, and kindness. Resistance and self-doubt are universal to writers, but discipline, rituals, and finding what works for you are key. Scaling community isn’t about replicating feelings exactly, but about empowering more people to care and host spaces. Writing doesn’t have to be a solitary act—community can make it more sustainable and joyful. Links & Resources: https://londonwriterssalon.com/# Writers’ Hour – free daily writing sessions (use code WRITEAFRIEND) https://podcast.londonwriterssalon.com/ Recommended episodes: Julia Cameron, Seth Godin, Oliver Burkeman

10. 

    10 Sept 2025

    Build with people, not for them — lessons from Sophie Cross of Freelancer Magazine

    Summary In this conversation, Sophie Cross, the publisher and editor of Freelancer Magazine, shares her journey of building a community-focused publication that supports freelancers. She discusses the importance of authenticity on platforms like LinkedIn, offers insights into copywriting, and emphasizes the value of starting projects before feeling fully prepared. The conversation also touches on strategies for attracting better clients, the impact of AI on freelancing, and the launch of a new freelance directory to connect members with opportunities. Takeaways Freelancer Magazine has evolved into a community-focused publication. Building processes and asking for help are crucial to avoid burnout. Authenticity on LinkedIn can help freelancers stand out. Starting before you're ready can lead to unexpected opportunities. Lowering benchmarks for success can make projects more enjoyable. Freelancers should focus on attracting better clients, not just more clients. AI can be a tool for efficiency, but human creativity remains essential. Finding inspiration in everyday life can enhance creativity. The new freelance directory aims to connect freelancers with clients. Community support is vital for freelancers navigating challenges. Links Freelancer Magazine → https://freelancermagazine.co.uk (https://freelancermagazine.co.uk) Freelancer Directory → https://freelancermagazine.co.uk/account/directory/ (https://freelancermagazine.co.uk/account/directory/) Sophie Cross on LinkedIn → https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiecross (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiecross) Start Before You’re Ready → https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0rfSTvGLR0 (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o0rfSTvGLR0) Do Hope → https://thedobook.co/products/do-hope/ (https://thedobook.co/products/do-hope-why-you-should-never-give-up?Format=Paperback) Keywords Freelancer Magazine, community building, LinkedIn, copywriting, AI in freelancing, starting before you're ready, attracting clients, creativity, membership, directory

11. 

    27 Aug 2025

    Sophie O'Brien is reinventing hiring

    This week on Ideas Club, we’re joined by Sophie O’Brien, founder of Pollen, a recruitment platform that flips the hiring process on its head—putting people, purpose, and potential at the heart of every application. After experiencing the frustration of applying to hundreds of jobs without meaningful feedback, Sophie set out to fix what she saw as a broken system. Pollen now connects young talent with small businesses through fair, transparent, and values-driven recruitment methods—helping candidates discover roles where they truly belong, while giving employers confidence they’re hiring the right people. In this episode, Sophie talks about: What’s wrong with traditional recruitment—and how Pollen is changing it Why employer brand and candidate experience matter more than ever The power of values, competencies, and chemistry in building great teams Lessons on leadership, fundraising, and growing a purpose-led company Links & Resources: Visit Pollen Careers (https://pollencareers.co.uk) to sign up as a job seeker or employer - pollencareers.co.uk Watch the Best Boss in Britain video (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leaPm61pD7E&list=PLjZKkrZAn4fnlZrUESk_TF3deWYnAd7U1&index=4) - https://youtu.be/leaPm61pD7E?feature=shared Follow Pollen on TikTok (https://www.tiktok.com/@pollencareers) for career tips and updates - www.tiktok.com/@pollencareers

12. 

    13 Aug 2025

    Brands for subcultures with "Sockman" Ed Vickers

    Jamie &amp; David chat with Ed Vickers, the brains and brawn behind Sums (sumsclub.co.uk (https://sumsclub.co.uk)) and the original "Sock Man" from Jolly's! In this episode, Ed shares his eclectic career journey, from his early days building the socially conscious sock brand Jolly's to working with a brand agency and a real estate fund, and ultimately, his return to the world of entrepreneurship with Sums. Episode Highlights: The Wild West of Startup Life: Ed reflects on what drew him back to entrepreneurship after exploring different career paths, emphasizing the passion and unique feeling of bringing an idea to life. The Jolly's Story: Discover the origins of Jolly's, a sock brand with a mission to donate winter warming socks to shelters for every pair sold. Ed shares his early experiences with product development, finding joy in the customer's purchase, and the valuable lessons learned from embracing personality and taking risks in branding. The Brand Builder's Journey: Ed discusses his time at Multiple, a brand consultancy, where he learned from experts about the intersection of brand, culture, and growth, working with high-growth venture-backed businesses. He then shares insights from his experience at Kinrise, a real estate investment fund, and how he applied brand and storytelling to bring historic buildings back to life. The Birth of Sums: Hear the inspiring story behind Sums, Ed's new running sock brand. From his personal running journey and the desire to create the "Patagonia of running," to the challenges of developing high-performance, sustainable running socks. Community and Cause: Ed elaborates on Sums' unique give-back system, integrating customer running data through Strava to contribute to a communal pot for running charities. He explains how Sums aims to help runners help runners, focusing on the collective spirit of the running community. The Power of Subculture: Ed discusses the importance of building a brand rooted in a specific subculture, drawing parallels with Patagonia and Apple's early days. He shares how Sums is connecting with elite trail runners and everyday enthusiasts alike. The Offline Magic: Ed highlights the importance of offline, analog experiences in the running world, despite Sums being a D2C online business. He shares recent examples of pop-ups and running events where the brand fosters genuine connections with customers. Brand Building Wisdom: Ed offers valuable insights into building great brands, emphasizing the need for bravery, conviction, and focus, and the risks of being bland. He also shares advice on selecting and working with agencies for rebrands, stressing the importance of trust and allowing creative freedom. The Future of Sums: Ed gives a glimpse into the future of Sums, including product diversification beyond socks and the dream of building a wicked in-house culture. Inspiring Brands: Ed shares a brand that inspires him, Peak Divide, highlighting their authenticity and genuine love for running culture and community. Connect with Ed Vickers and Sums: Sums Website: sumsclub.co.uk (https://sumsclub.co.uk) Ed on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-vickers-a34a1065/) Maverick Race: https://www.maverick-race.com/ (https://www.maverick-race.com/) Peak Divide: https://www.peakdivide.com/ (https://www.peakdivide.com/) Ideas Club Newsletter Sign up to the ideas club newsletter every two weeks for ideas and a dose of creative inspiration - <a...

13. 

    29 Jul 2025

    We try to reach our MAX potential with leadership coach Will James

    Jamie and David explore the paradigm shift from traditional management to a coaching-oriented leadership style with expert Will James. Learn why fostering autonomy, mastery, and purpose (as highlighted by Daniel Pink) is crucial for employee motivation and how a coaching approach can amplify these drivers. Will introduces his coaching model, emphasizing the clarity of a "high-definition picture of success" and the power of appreciative inquiry. We delve into the art of asking good questions to elicit deeper insights, rather than prescribing solutions. This episode is a must-listen for leaders and managers seeking to cultivate a culture of ownership, creativity, and continuous development within their teams. Resources Mentioned: Book: Drive by Daniel Pink (also a TED Talk) Coach: Nancy Klein (mention of her work on listening) Psychologist: Carol Dweck (Mindset book) Book: Creativity Inc. by Ed Catmull Book: Thanks for the Feedback (Authors: Sheila Heen, Douglas Stone) Artist: Unknown artist mentioned for "Rites of Passage" series on Channel 4. Connect with Will James: Find more about Partners in Purpose and their "Be Inspired" book clubs (monthly, no need to read the book beforehand!). https://www.linkedin.com/in/will-james-coach/

14. 

    16 Jul 2025

    Meetings don't have to be painful - Our rhythms for meeting as a team

    In this episode, David and Jamie explore the often-dreaded world of meetings, asking the critical question: "Could this meeting have been an email?" Provoked by Elon Musk's perspective on meeting efficiency, your hosts delve into why so many meetings are unproductive and how to transform them into valuable, energizing sessions. Discover our meeting rhythms and cadences, designed for our own indie creative business. We break down our weekly, monthly, quarterly, and annual meeting structures, including: Snippets (Not a Meeting!): How a Slack channel can replace your Monday morning huddle and clarify thinking. Level 10s: An in-depth look at this powerful, action-oriented meeting framework from the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS), designed to achieve 10/10 productivity. Learn why time limits and clear agendas are game-changers. Friday Huddle: The cultural cornerstone of the week, focusing on team connection, learning, and mutual encouragement. Monthly Commercial Review: Essential for staying on top of key performance indicators. Zoom Out Sessions: One-on-one meetings focused on team member coaching, professional development (including unique "learning" and "risk" goals), and fostering psychological safety. Quarterly Rocks Meeting: Setting the 90-day trajectory with "big rocks" that move the needle, and introducing the concept of a quarterly theme (like "Expose Yourself!"). Annual Goal Setting &amp; Reviews: High-level strategy and personal development discussions. We share our evolving blueprint for effective communication in a hybrid work environment, offering tangible takeaways and inviting listeners to share their own meeting strategies. Links &amp; Resources: Learn more about Good Space: (http://goodspace.work)good.space (https://good.space/) Sign up for the Ideas Club newsletter: good.space/ideas-club (https://good.space/ideas-club) Book: Traction by Gino Wickman (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Traction-Get-Grip-Your-Business/dp/1936661837/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1G9CFE4DE9588&amp;dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.BFtCGEFO5pLYSR9d-7n7jbq7r8gerUGJg8aBl4JD5dzXff6sTyeZ6-MPK9eFVUm8Ghh8lJ33IoHimJa4lcWMgzhIPLbngl7NxugXfGbyaKzPiENT85bAvQRlebdETvCnzOQf8MbQPA_tQCYzEGo1vuO5FDw3k8qnMnlFAtWA9bHHtQIJppsxx6JJtBKyoZFBGe1Bxe31HNCmccdKfKU0IrUYwsaByQbRLPTtzrH9_zg.Y8spAv0Oq8xueV15EzC-i025uPnM_sLENNzQL5S_JPc&amp;dib_tag=se&amp;keywords=traction+book&amp;qid=1752597808&amp;sprefix=traction+%2Caps%2C88&amp;sr=8-1) Book: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara (https://www.amazon.co.uk/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418573) Notion article on Level 10 Meetings: https://www.notion.com/blog/level-10-meeting-why-should-startups-use-it (https://www.notion.com/blog/level-10-meeting-why-should-startups-use-it) Good Space Level 10 Meeting Template: Level 10 Meeting Agenda (https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KuuxvX98zFUpW1-GLlc06idey9YdcpFDs_Qv6JiLYXg/edit?usp=sharing) Let us know in the comments: What are your meeting best practices? How do you keep your hybrid or remote team connected and productive?

15. 

    2 Jul 2025

    We Failed -- What we learned in the process of closing a business

    Hosts David and Jamie reflect on closing two venues, exploring lessons learned from failure, strategy, community dynamics, and product market fit in this therapeutic discussion.

16. 

    18 Jun 2025

    Should we be making paperclips? -- Values v. Activities

    David Brown and Jamie Dundas explore how shared values energize teams, guide decisions, and shape company identity, emphasizing values over products for building successful organizations in this interview.

17. 

    3 Jun 2025

    Pushing Through The Resistance - Shipping your work even when it is scary

    Hosts David and Jamie explore strategies for creatives to conquer fears of self-promotion and criticism, emphasizing consistent practice and embracing imperfection to build confidence and ship work regularly.

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YouTube views

7,297

Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 31 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

35

Social presence

0

YouTube

68

Engagement

0

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