Evolve to Succeed

Betting on Ourselves: Buying and Building a Business with Jess & Nick Bain

What happens when the opportunity to own the business you've been working in suddenly lands in front of you? In this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren is joined by Jess and Nick Bain, the husband-and-wife team behind Halo Associates, to share the story of taking over the Bournemouth creative agency through a management buyout in 2022. They unpack what the MBO process really looked like, from funding the deal and managing the risks of a highly concentrated client base to communicating with the existing team and deciding what needed to change. Since taking ownership, Halo has grown from around 12 to 13 people to a team of 20, while evolving from a predominantly delivery-led agency towards a more strategic marketing partner. Jess and Nick also discuss the realities of running a company together as a married couple, learning to delegate, separating work from home, developing their individual leadership styles and creating a people-first culture. The conversation also looks ahead at AI, creativity, sustainable growth and their ambition to build a business that can thrive independently of them. If you enjoyed the episode, subscribe to Evolve to Succeed, leave a review and share it with another business owner or aspiring entrepreneur. What The Episode Covers Why Jess and Nick always wanted to own a business together How the opportunity to buy Halo came about What a management buyout actually involves Funding the acquisition and taking on the risk Buying a business where one client represented around 75 to 80% of the work Bringing the existing team through a change of ownership What they would do differently if they went through an MBO again Growing Halo from around 12 to 13 people to 20 Running a business together as husband and wife Learning to delegate and transition from doing to leading Why business ownership can be lonely and the value of peer support The impact of AI on marketing, creativity and junior roles Building a business that can eventually operate without its founders Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:02 Did you always want to own a business? 02:45 How did the management buyout happen? 05:58 What does an MBO actually involve? 11:03 What did you get right and wrong? 15:07 What did becoming owners feel like? 19:01 How has Halo changed since the buyout? 24:55 How has peer support helped you? 27:04 How have you changed as leaders? 33:00 How do you run a business as husband and wife? 43:54 How will AI change creative agencies? 46:12 What's next for Halo?

The Japanese Secrets to Healthier, Happier Businesses, with Barbara Cox-Lovesy

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson welcomes back award-winning nutritionist, wellbeing expert and author, Barbara Cox-Lovesy. Returning more than six years after her first appearance, Barbara shares how attitudes towards health, wellbeing and workplace culture have evolved and why business leaders can no longer afford to ignore them. Drawing on lessons from her new book, Land of the Rising Lifespan, Barbara explains how Japanese culture has shaped her approach to leadership, productivity and longevity. From preventing burnout and creating healthier workplaces to embracing imperfection, slowing down and building sustainable habits, this conversation is packed with practical advice for business owners and individuals alike. If you enjoyed this episode, don't forget to subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who would benefit from the conversation. What the Episode Covers How corporate wellbeing has changed over the past six years Preventing burnout in high-performing teams Why leadership sets the culture for wellbeing Measuring employee wellbeing and engagement Lessons from Japanese culture and longevity The inspiration behind Land of the Rising Lifespan The Japanese concept of embracing imperfection How wellbeing creates a competitive business advantage Nutrition, supplements and healthy eating habits The importance of community and slowing down AI's role in improving productivity without increasing burnout Living longer while maintaining quality of life Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:28 – How Has Workplace Wellbeing Changed? 03:40 – Are We Heading Back Towards Burnout? 07:02 – What Does Great Corporate Wellbeing Look Like? 11:30 – How Can Small Businesses Prioritise Employee Wellbeing? 16:35 – Why Did You Write Land of the Rising Lifespan? 18:15 – What Can We Learn from Japanese Culture? 24:20 – Which Japanese Habits Should We Adopt? 29:10 – Is the Japanese Diet Really Healthier? 33:40 – Do We Really Need Supplements? 36:35 – What is the Biggest Lesson From Your Book? 40:45 – How Can AI Support Health and Wellbeing? 47:00 – Are We Living Longer or Living Better?

From Teacher to Charity CEO: Krista Cartlidge's Leadership Journey

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson is joined by Krista Cartlidge, CEO of MYTIME Young Carers, to explore her journey from secondary school teacher to leading a nationally recognised organisation supporting young carers. Krista shares how frustrations within the education system led her to discover the hidden challenges faced by young carers, and why that discovery completely changed the direction of her career. Since joining MYTIME, she has helped grow the charity into a nationally respected voice, influencing policy, collecting groundbreaking data, and helping drive changes within schools and Ofsted frameworks. This is an honest, insightful, and deeply human conversation about leadership, purpose, resilience, and creating long-term impact. If you enjoy the episode, make sure to subscribe, leave a review and share it with someone who would find the conversation valuable. What The Episode Covers Krista's journey from education into the charity sector Why the education system was failing young carers The hidden realities faced by young carers Transitioning from teacher to CEO Building and scaling MYTIME during Covid Leadership lessons learned while growing a charity The similarities between charities and startups Managing culture, governance and growth The importance of data in driving systemic change Lobbying Ofsted and influencing national policy Sustainable income models for charities The emotional impact of leading purpose-driven organisations Creating long-term systemic change for young carers Chapters 00:00 – Who is Krista Cartlidge and what does MYTIME do? 01:10 – What drew Krista into teaching and education? 05:01 – Why did Krista leave the education sector? 07:10 – How did discovering young carers change everything? 09:37 – What were the early days of leading MYTIME really like? 14:14 – What leadership lessons came from building a growing charity? 18:18 – How did MYTIME influence Ofsted and national policy? 29:28 – What challenges come with scaling a purpose-led organisation? 31:32 – How did MYTIME create sustainable income streams? 43:39 – How do you build a strong culture inside a charity? 49:28 – What legacy does Krista want to leave behind?

Selling Your Business | Lessons From Those Who've Done It

On this special episode, we bring together real conversations with founders and leaders who have built, scaled, and successfully exited their businesses. From early-stage ambition to the final signature, this episode explores what the journey actually looks like behind the scenes. You'll hear honest reflections on the realities of selling, from the pressure of due diligence and deal fatigue, to the emotional weight of stepping away from something you've spent years building. These are stories of resilience, tough decisions, timing, and the often-overlooked question: What comes next? Whether you're actively planning an exit, thinking about succession, or simply curious about what the future could look like, this episode offers valuable perspective from those who've been through it. If you found this useful, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who's on their own business journey. What The Episode Covers Why selling a business is more complex than expected The reality of due diligence and deal fatigue Managing emotions during the exit process The importance of having the right advisors around you Knowing when the time is right to exit Understanding "how much is enough" financially Building a business that operates without the founder The impact of exit on identity and personal life Choosing the right buyer, not just the highest offer Life after exit and transitioning into the next phase Chapters 00:00 – Introduction 01:10 – Brian Parker 08:20 – Jimmy & Suzie's Iced Coffee 15:48 - Anthony Woodhouse 18:59 - Lincoln New 25:32 - Declan O'Toole 42:23 - Final Reflections

From Accountant to Creative Founder, with Joe Hayes at Kindful

What happens when someone trained to analyse spreadsheets decides to follow their creative passion? In this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson sits down with Joe Hayes, founder of Kindful Creative, to explore his journey from trainee accountant to running a growing video production agency built on the values of kindness, relationships, and human connection. Joe shares how his early career in accountancy gave him a powerful understanding of business fundamentals, but ultimately left him feeling stuck in a routine that lacked passion. What started as a hobby with a camera quickly turned into something much bigger, eventually leading Joe to take the leap and launch his own creative agency. Throughout the conversation, Joe opens up about the realities of starting a business, the importance of understanding your numbers, and why relationships and reputation often matter more than aggressive sales strategies. You'll also hear about the challenges of growth, staying focused as a founder, and how building a business around personal values can shape company culture and client relationships. If you're thinking about starting a business, changing careers, or building something that aligns with your passions, this episode is packed with honest insights and practical lessons. If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who might find it valuable. What The Episode Covers Joe Hayes' journey from trainee accountant to creative entrepreneur The inspiration behind launching Kindful Creative Why relationships are at the heart of Joe's business philosophy The risks and mindset shifts involved in leaving a stable career Why understanding financials is crucial for founders Lessons learned from early business decisions and partnerships The importance of building a strong team culture How podcasting and content help businesses build authority Balancing entrepreneurship with family life Joe's personal definition of success Chapters 00:00 – Why did you become an accountant? 04:30 – What inspired the name Kindful? 08:00 – How do you build a values-driven team? 11:00 – When did creativity become a passion? 15:00 – What gave you the confidence to start a business? 21:00 – Why do founders need financial literacy? 27:30 – What does Kindful Creative actually do? 32:00 – How has leadership changed for you? 35:00 – Why should businesses create content and podcasts? 40:00 – Lifestyle business or growth company? 44:00 – What advice would you give your younger self? 47:30 – What does success mean to you?

Culture by Design: Unlocking Alignment, Growth and Impact with Niall Cluley

On this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren sits down with Niall Cluley, Managing Director and shareholder at Dragonfish, a culture and performance consultancy helping ambitious brands unlock alignment, growth and long-term impact. Niall shares his journey from corporate leadership roles at global brands including Fitness First and Vodafone, to becoming Dragonfish's founding client before stepping into ownership. The conversation explores what culture really is beyond posters on the wall, why values alone are not enough, and how leaders can intentionally shape the "ecosystem" of behaviours, systems and experiences that drive performance. You'll hear about the six signatures of high-performing organisations, how to maintain momentum after a culture "project", why impact matters more than engagement alone, and how AI and rapid change are reshaping the way organisations think about people and performance. If you're leading a growing business, scaling a team, or preparing for succession or exit, this episode offers practical insight into making culture a true competitive advantage. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show. What The Episode Covers Niall's journey from corporate leadership to culture consultancy What culture really means in practical business terms Founder fingerprints and scaling beyond founder energy Why values alone don't drive performance The importance of vision as a North Star Working backwards from the future to maintain alignment The six signatures of high-performing organisations Measuring culture in tangible, performance-linked ways The impact of AI and rapid change on organisational culture Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Introduction 00:44 - What does Dragonfish do and why does culture matter? 03:00 – When did you realise performance and culture are inseparable? 06:00 – What does it really feel like to leave corporate and build your own consultancy? 10:20 – What does culture actually mean in practical terms? 14:30 – How much of culture is founder-driven versus intentional design? 18:00 – How do you keep vision and purpose alive in everyday business life? 24:00 – What are the six signatures of high-performing organisations? 31:00 – How do you measure culture without it becoming 'wishy-washy'? 41:00 – How will AI and rapid change reshape organisational culture? 46:30 – What leadership traits matter most when protecting culture?

From School Shoes to Exit | With Lincoln New

On this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, we're joined by Lincoln New, co-founder of Term Footwear, who shares the full story behind launching, pivoting, scaling and eventually exiting a school footwear brand in one of the UK's toughest retail sectors. Lincoln takes us back to the early days of starting the business with little more than industry experience, belief and £700 worth of stock in a garage. He talks candidly about naivety, self-belief, dealing with doubters, managing supply chains across continents and the emotional toll of constant pivots. From distributor to brand owner, Amazon setbacks to Costco breakthroughs, Brexit to Covid, Lincoln's journey is a masterclass in resilience. The conversation explores how relationships carried the business through its hardest moments, why strategy matters most when things aren't going well, and how Lincoln approached exit planning with honesty and clarity about his "why". This episode is packed with hard-earned lessons for anyone starting, growing or thinking about exiting a business. If you enjoyed the episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show. What The Episode Covers Where the idea for Term Footwear came from Starting a business with limited capital and big ambition Entering an overcrowded, brand-dominated market Overcoming self-doubt, criticism and scepticism Managing overseas manufacturing and supply chains Pivoting from distributor to brand owner Navigating Amazon failures and Costco opportunities Surviving Brexit and Covid through strategic pivots Building trust-based customer relationships Planning, executing and emotionally navigating a business exit Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Where did the idea for Term Footwear come from? 03:00 – What motivated you to start a business in such a crowded market? 06:30 – How did you deal with self-doubt and early scepticism? 09:50 – How did you manage sourcing and supply chains overseas? 12:40 – What forced the pivot from distributor to owning the brand? 17:00 – How did Amazon and Costco shape the business model? 23:50 – How did Covid change your strategy and market focus? 30:00 – When did you start thinking seriously about an exit? 36:00 – How did you make the business attractive to buyers? 39:00 – How did it feel to finally complete the exit? 42:30 – What advice would you give founders starting today? 49:00 – What does success mean to you now?

How An Employee Became The Boss (And Then Exited), with Brian Parker

What does it really take to grow from a junior role into Managing Director, earn equity, scale a business through major change, and successfully exit? In this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, host Warren sits down with Brian Parker, former Managing Director and shareholder of Britannia Parking. Brian shares an honest, behind-the-scenes account of his 20-year journey, starting in a junior finance role and progressing to board level, equity ownership and ultimately leading the business through a successful exit. Brian talks openly about ambition, hard work, learning the numbers, and why leadership isn't about titles or ego. He reflects on the critical relationship between owner and MD, the importance of trust, and how having equity fundamentally changed his decision-making and long-term focus. The conversation also dives into scaling challenges, navigating rapid growth, managing people through change, pivoting business models, and the emotional and practical realities of selling a business. This episode is packed with practical lessons for employees with ambition, business owners considering succession, and leaders thinking about growth, equity and exit strategies. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to support the show. What The Episode Covers Starting in a junior role and progressing into leadership Developing commercial and financial skills to accelerate growth Moving from operational roles to Managing Director The mindset shift required when leading a business Building trust between shareholders and leadership Why equity changes behaviour and decision-making Scaling challenges and people decisions during growth Pivoting business models and embracing technology Preparing for and navigating a business exit Lessons learned from a long-term leadership journey Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – What is your background and how did you join the business? 03:00 – When did you realise this could become a long-term career? 06:30 – How did learning finance accelerate your progression? 10:00 – What changed when you stepped into the MD role? 14:30 – How do you lead without relying on ego or title? 18:00 – What makes a strong relationship between owner and MD? 24:30 – How did the business pivot and scale through major growth? 31:30 – What were the biggest challenges during the exit process? 38:30 – How did equity change your mindset and motivation? 45:00 – What advice would you give leaders on growth and exit?

James Croker on Leadership, Belonging and the Power of Sport

On this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson sits down with James Croker, Commercial Director at Bournemouth Rugby Club. Many know James as the energetic, passionate force behind the club's growth in recent years, but few know the full story that shaped him. James takes us from his early sporting childhood, through a 15-year career in the Royal Air Force, to the devastating series of heart attacks in his early thirties that abruptly ended both his military career and his playing days. He speaks openly about the mental health battle that followed, the loss, the darkness and ultimately the community that helped pull him back up. We explore how rugby's core values have shaped James's leadership philosophy, the commercial transformation at Bournemouth Rugby and his mission to build a true sense of belonging in the local business community. This conversation is a blend of raw honesty, practical wisdom and heartfelt passion for sport and people. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more listeners discover the show. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… How sport shaped James's early life Why he joined the Royal Air Force The sudden heart condition that ended his military career How he battled depression and rebuilt his life Transitioning into coaching and returning to Bournemouth Rugby Building commercial sustainability and community connection Creating belonging and meaningful values in organisations Why role modelling matters in sport and business The importance of resilience and support networks James's ambitions for Bournemouth Rugby Club Soundbites "Sport always gave me purpose, even when nothing else made sense." "You learn from great leaders, but you learn even more from the bad ones." "Community saved me. Without it, I don't know where I'd be." "The military took my structure away overnight. That's when life really hit me." "Good rugby players aren't always good people. We want good people first." "You can't just put your values on a wall. You have to live them." "If you want to build community, create a sense of belonging and safety first." "Make your bed. Do one thing. One step leads to the next." Chapters 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – James' early years 03:20 – Military career 10:30 – Heart attacks 17:40 – Navigating depression and rebuilding life 21:45 – Bournemouth Rugby 25:30 – Building community through sport 36:00 – Rugby values 49:10 – Future of Bournemouth Rugby 55:20 – Final reflections

The Start-Up Reality: Inside the First 12 Months of Building a Business, with Josh Williams

What does it really take to build a startup from scratch? In this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, host Warren Munson speaks with Josh Williams, co-founder of Town, a new community platform on a mission to help people rediscover and support their local independent businesses. Founded less than a year ago, Town is already building momentum by rewarding shoppers for buying local and connecting communities through tech. Josh opens up about his journey from a series of side hustles to launching a tech startup with purpose. He talks candidly about the challenges of bootstrapping, managing self-doubt, balancing ambition with reality and why perseverance matters more than ever in the early stages. This is a must-listen for anyone thinking about launching their own business or curious about what happens behind the scenes during a startup. Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help more people discover the Evolve to Succeed Podcast! This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… How Town is helping revive independent retail The inspiration behind the idea (and how Amazon played a role) Lessons from a year of building a startup Why Josh believes constraint fuels creativity The highs and lows of early entrepreneurship The importance of co-founders and complementary skills Balancing purpose with profit and scalability Why AI won't replace human connection Overcoming doubt, fear of failure, and burnout Josh's advice for anyone thinking of starting their own business Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:10 – What is Town and why it exists 03:15 – The mission to revive independent business 06:20 – How the idea for Town began 08:55 – Early startup challenges and first customers 11:20 – The highs and lows of year one 13:40 – Lean building and bootstrapping lessons 17:00 – Self-funding vs raising capital 19:40 – Why focus and persistence matter 23:20 – Planning Town's growth and data insights 28:50 – Facing failure and overcoming doubt 31:40 – The importance of co-founders 36:30 – AI and the future of human connection 40:35 – Lessons from the Evolve Accelerator experience 47:20 – Josh's top advice for aspiring founders 50:00 – Closing reflections

From Dysfunctional to High Performance: Lessons in Teamwork, with Nick Fewings

What makes a truly high-performing team, and why do so many fail to reach that level? In this episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren Munson sits down with Nick Fewings, founder of Ngagement Works and author of Team Lead Succeed. Known as a "Teamologist," Nick shares insights from over three decades of experience helping leaders and teams reach their potential. From his early leadership struggles at Barclays to coaching global organisations, Nick explores the psychology of teamwork, covering trust, purpose, accountability and the fine balance between empathy and strategy. He also reveals why only 10% of teams are truly high-performing and how leaders can cultivate consistency, communication and psychological safety within their organisations. Packed with practical advice and relatable stories, this episode is a masterclass in leading people, fostering collaboration and creating teams that thrive together. If you enjoy the conversation, please subscribe, share and leave a review! It really helps more people discover the show. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… + How failure led Nick to study team dynamics + Why most teams are only "average" performers + The difference between leadership and management + Building psychological safety and trust + Balancing empathy with strategic leadership + Aligning personal and organisational purpose + Handling misaligned team members + Encouraging open, candid communication + Embedding accountability across a team Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – How failure sparked a passion for teamwork 04:45 – What makes a team dysfunctional? 06:50 – Leadership vs. Management 09:10 – Building trust and psychological safety 13:50 – Managing stress and self-awareness as leaders 15:40 – The art of strategic empathy 17:15 – Purpose, alignment and shared values 22:30 – Communication, honesty and feedback 32:10 – Accountability within teams 39:00 – The myth of KPIs 43:20 – Advice to your younger leadership self 46:00 – Outro and Reflections If you enjoy the conversation, please subscribe, share and leave a review! It really helps more people discover the show.

How to Live Longer, Healthier and Stronger, with Rachel Williams

What if you could completely transform your health, energy, and outlook in just a few years? This week on the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Warren is joined by Rachel Williams, founder of Zest Lifestyle, wellbeing coach, and passionate advocate for preventative health. Rachel's story is remarkable - 25 years ago she was overweight, smoking 40 cigarettes a day, drinking heavily, and burnt out from her high-pressure corporate career. Then one morning in a Barcelona hotel, she had her "OMG moment" and decided to change everything. Since then, Rachel has not only rebuilt her own life but has dedicated the last two decades to helping others do the same. In this conversation, she shares the five pillars of wellness -sleep, eat, move, think, and pause - and explains how small, consistent changes can have a profound impact on your health and longevity. We also dive into the dangers of ultra-processed food, the rise of burnout, and how businesses can create cultures of wellbeing that benefit both people and performance. Rachel's mission is clear: extend healthspan, not just lifespan. Her insights will inspire you to rethink your daily habits and take control of your wellbeing. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, share it with your network, and leave us a review - it really helps others discover the show. Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Rachel's Transformation Story 03:00 – The OMG Moment in Barcelona 07:30 – From Corporate Life to Wellness Coach 10:30 – The Five Pillars of Wellness 18:00 – Small Habits, Big Health Gains 26:30 – Weight Loss Drugs, Risks & Realities 29:30 – Mental Health, Stress & Ultra-Processed Food 40:00 – Building a Culture of Wellbeing at Work 44:00 – Zest Nation & The Blue Zone Inspiration 54:00 – Rachel's Definition of Success: Balance

How AI is Changing Business Forever, with Nick Carlile and Dan Smith

AI is no longer a distant concept. It's here. But what does it mean for business, creativity and society as a whole? In this thought-provoking episode of The Evolve to Succeed Podcast, host Warren Munson is joined by two experts at the forefront of the AI revolution. Nick Carlile, founder of Olivia AI, and Dan Smith, CEO of Fireworx. Together, they explore the opportunities and challenges posed by artificial intelligence. From democratising knowledge and levelling the playing field for small businesses, to the existential risks around ethics, regulation and human identity. Expect candid insights on how AI is transforming work, displacing jobs while creating new ones and forcing business leaders to rethink strategies. The conversation also tackles creativity. Can AI truly innovate, or is it simply remixing human ideas? Whether you're excited about AI or concerned about its implications, this episode offers valuable perspectives on where we are now and where we might be heading. If you enjoy the show, don't forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a review to help more listeners discover these conversations. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… + Why AI represents one of the biggest opportunities in business history. + The impact of AI on jobs, skills and human identity. + How AI is reshaping creativity, branding and marketing. + The challenges of bias, ethics and regulation in AI. + Dystopian vs. utopian futures. Where might AI take us? + Practical advice for business leaders on adopting AI strategically. Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 - Introduction 01:14 - Excitement Around AI 04:46 - Impact on Jobs & Skill 10:19 - Human Connection vs. Automation 18:58 - Ethics, Trust & Regulation 28:02 - Bias in AI 32:53 - AI and Creativity 42:27 - Practical Uses & Business Strategy 53:01 - Entrepreneurship, Risk & Business Models 56:46 - Utopia or Dystopia? Are you a business owner or leader looking to navigate change with confidence? At Evolve, we help ambitious businesses like yours unlock growth, embrace innovation, and build strategies fit for the future. 👉 Get in touch with our team today to explore how we can support you and your business journey: www.evolveadvisory.co.uk

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The Journey from Burnout to Inner Peace - with Katherine Baldwin

What happens when the life you dreamed of doesn't bring you happiness? This week on the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, we're joined by Katherine Baldwin. Former Reuters political and foreign correspondent who once travelled the world alongside Tony Blair, Gordon Brown, and David Cameron. From covering wars, natural disasters, and global crises, Katherine lived a life of adrenaline, success, and status. Yet behind the scenes, she was battling burnout, binge eating, alcohol dependence, and an overwhelming sense of emptiness. In this deeply honest and inspiring conversation, Katherine shares how she transitioned from chasing external validation to finding inner peace and purpose. We discuss the dangers of overachievement, the role of addiction and denial in high-pressure careers, and the courage it takes to step away from an identity built on success. Katherine also reveals the practices and mindset shifts that helped her recover, embrace self-love, and build meaningful relationships. Whether you're an entrepreneur, business leader, or professional striving for balance, this episode will give you tools to pause, reflect, and realign with what truly matters. 👉 If you find value in this episode, please subscribe, share it with others, and leave us a review. It really helps the podcast grow. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Success Doesn't Guarantee Fulfilment: Katherine shares how her dream career reporting from Downing Street and the White House left her feeling empty and unfulfilled despite the outward success. Adrenaline Can Be an Addiction: Katherine describes how her life was fuelled by adrenaline, excessive work, binge eating and drinking, unaware she was using these to avoid unresolved pain. Numbing Isn't Coping: She explains how we often use work, alcohol, exercise or even relationships to numb discomfort, but the feelings always catch up with us. Burnout Is a Wake-Up Call: A personal crisis and grief forced Katherine to face years of denial, leading her to finally seek help and reassess her life's direction. Tell Yourself the Truth First: Recovery starts with self-honesty. Katherine encourages listeners to ask hard questions: What am I avoiding? What's this behaviour really about? Healthy Relationships Start With Self-Love: Katherine talks about how early trauma creates patterns in love, and how self-worth and boundaries are the foundation for meaningful connection. Presence Over Productivity: From sea swims to journaling, Katherine shares the small daily rituals that keep her grounded and help her avoid falling back into old habits. Redefine Success as Inner Peace: Her definition of success has shifted from status and prestige to something simpler and more profound: peace, fulfilment, and joy. Soundbites "I was in Downing Street, the White House, rubbing shoulders with world leaders—and I still felt dead inside." "Externally, it looked like I had it all. Internally, I was crumbling." "I was using food, alcohol, adrenaline, and achievement to numb the pain inside me." "Tell the truth. Start by telling yourself the truth." "If you're numbing out—through alcohol, overwork, relationships, social media—what are you trying to escape?" "Our bodies will keep the score. Burnout, illness, even disease—these are the costs we pay when we don't pause." "We think hustling is the answer. But at what cost? To our peace, our health, our families?" "We care for ourselves not just for us—but so we can care for the business, the team, the people we love." "Presence is a superpower. It's not weakness. It's everything." ⏱️ Chapters / Timestamps 00:00 – Intro & Katherine's Background 04:30 – Success on the Outside, Struggles Within 10:15 – Burnout, Breakdown & Denial 17:00 – Leaving Reuters & Facing Identity Loss 23:30 – First Steps Toward Healing 30:00 – Daily Practices for Self-Care & Presence 41:00 – Boundaries, Balance & Saying "Enough" 47:00 – Building Healthy Relationships & Her Book 55:00 – Quickfire Round & Defining Success 56:30 – Closing Reflections & Where to Find Katherine

Defining 'Enough': Declan O'Toole on Exit Strategies & Entrepreneurial Freedom

Summary On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Declan O'Toole shares his remarkable journey from marine biology to building a successful catering business, Forerunner Catering. He discusses the challenges of transitioning from Meals on Wheels to providing school meals, the importance of cash flow management, and the lessons learned from navigating public sector contracts. Declan reflects on the decision to exit the business, the sale process, and life after exit, emphasising the need for resilience and the fulfillment found in the entrepreneurial journey. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Define "Enough" Early: Declan covers what "enough" was in his life. He applied the 4% rule to plan his exit and financial future. Public Sector Contracts Can Be Goldmines: Declan talks about public sector contracts and how they can be stable and profitable when executed well. Systems and Process Create True Business Ownership: A business that can run without the owner is a real business. Declan emphasises how important it was for his catering company to be people-independent and systems-led. Cashflow is Everything: Declan emphasises that cashflow forecasting is a non-negotiable practice. Exit Requires Strategy, Not Spontaneity: Declan discusses his exit from the business by tightening operations, ensuring clean books, and building scalability before stepping away. Legacy Over Maximum Payout: Declan talks about choosing the right buyer, by assessing their values and ability to take care of his team and legacy. Soundbites "The bit that's really good about generating wealth is not having the wealth. It's the journey from not having it to getting there." "You only own a business if it can run without you for three to six months." "Cashflow, cashflow, cashflow. There's nothing else. That's priority one." "Once you get public sector contracts, just don't f* up." "You've got to have grit. Everyone I know who's made it has been through some deep, deep s*." "I'm great at building systems. I'm absolutely crap at doing them." "Success is waking up looking forward to the day and being happy with what you've achieved so far." "I'd be a corporate muppet if I hadn't read Rich Dad Poor Dad." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Declan O'Toole 01:20 From Marine Biology to Catering Business 05:00 Transitioning from Meals on Wheels to School Meals 10:00 Challenges of Rapid Growth and Cash Flow Management 15:00 Navigating Public Sector Contracts 20:48 The Importance of Relationships in Business 27:47 Lessons Learned from the Public Sector 32:54 Deciding to Exit the Business 38:28 The Sale Process and Finding the Right Buyer 47:38 Life After Exit

Charting New Waters: How a Startup Disrupted Superyacht Navigation

Dave and Alicia Store, co-founders of DSNM, join the Evolve to Succeed podcast to trace their 25-year journey from a one-man, paper-based chart-correction service to an award-winning super-yacht-navigation technology company with 27 employees and 620 vessels under subscription. Dave candidly recounts the scrappy early years - dot-matrix printers, Pritt Stick, and fax machines - while Alicia explains how joining the firm (initially to cover maternity leave) professionalised its finances, people processes and long-term vision. The couple unpack the pivotal moments that reshaped the business: realising captains would pay for a fully managed service; raising prices to signal quality; surviving the 2008 crash, COVID-19 and the Russia-Ukraine shock; and, most dramatically, self-funding and launching their proprietary software, Compass. Their complementary personalities - Dave the risk-taking visionary, Alicia the detail-driven operator - emerge as the engine behind DSNM's culture of obsessive customer service and constant product iteration. They also share the realities of running a high-pressure, family-run company in a glamorous, yet unforgiving industry. Topics range from work-life integration with their young son Louis, to tight recruitment standards, to the pride (and responsibility) of winning two Queen's Awards and employing a close-knit team. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Find a pain-killer, not a vitamin. Early success came from doing the tedious chart-correction work crews hated. Price can signal value. Raising rates—rather than undercutting incumbents—attracted more super-yacht clients. Service DNA first, tech layer next. DSNM's core white-glove support never changed; software (Compass) scaled it. Complementary co-founders matter. Visionary risk (Dave) + operational diligence (Alicia) created balanced growth. Crisis = clarity. COVID and the Ukraine conflict forced the team to reassess purpose, costs and future bets. Culture of "no passengers." Every hire must be a self-starting problem-solver; weak links show instantly in a small team. Bootstrapping builds resilience. Funding software internally preserved speed and ownership—crucial in a niche market. Work-life "blend" beats balance. Shared purpose, clear role boundaries, and intentional family time keep burnout at bay. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to DSNM and Its Founders 06:50 The Evolution of Services and Software Development 12:04 Navigating Business Challenges and Financial Lessons 20:39 Balancing Growth with Company Culture 30:04 The Impact of COVID-19 on Business Strategy 38:18 Reflections on Success and Personal Growth 42:50 Family Dynamics and Work-Life Balance 48:53 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts

Atlantic Grit: The True Story of a 3,000 Mile Row, with Julie & Sally

In this captivating episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, host Warren Munson reconnects with returning guests Julie and Sally, fresh from their epic adventure of rowing 3,000 miles across the Atlantic Ocean. After 59 grueling days at sea, the team successfully completed their journey from La Gomera to Antigua aboard the Ebb & Flow. Julie and Sally share vivid tales of their extreme challenge, from breathtaking wildlife encounters to the relentless mental and physical tests they faced. This episode is a moving testament to courage, camaraderie, and the power of human determination. Tune in and be inspired! This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Triumphant Arrival: The powerful emotions of crossing the finish line to a cheering crowd and reuniting with loved ones. Surprises & Challenges: Navigating unexpected battery issues, hand steering for hours, and battling huge storms. Life at Sea: Their daily routines, sleep deprivation, hallucinations, and how they coped with the isolation and vastness of the ocean. Wildlife Wonders: Magical moments with whales, playful dolphins, and even a curious marlin! Team Dynamics: Insights into working as a team of three, including how they supported one another during tough times. Mind Over Matter: The mental strength and resilience it took to row day after day, and how they now see challenges in everyday life differently. Personal Growth: Reflections on how this experience changed their perspectives and their lives. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey Begins: Crossing the Atlantic 06:02 - Surprises and Challenges at Sea 10:13 - Daily Life on the Ocean 14:39 - Overcoming Fears and Isolation 20:02 - Mental Resilience and Personal Growth 28:31 - Highlights and Pinnacle Moments 29:07 - Surfing the Waves of Adventure 30:08 - Wild Encounters: Whales and Wildlife 31:13 - The Thrill of the Ocean: Sounds and Sights 32:10 - Team Dynamics: Bonding Through Challenges 33:42 - Resilience and Problem Solving at Sea 39:00 - Physical Challenges and Recovery 43:14 - Adjusting to Life After the Ocean 46:35 - Future Adventures: What's Next?

On The Pitch: Laceeze & Dragons' Den, with Emma Burke

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Emma Burke, co-founder of Laceeze, shares her entrepreneurial journey from the inception of her innovative shoelace solution, to her recent experience on Dragon's Den. Emma discusses the challenges and successes of developing her product, transitioning to a full-time commitment, and the importance of marketing strategies and brand ambassadors in driving growth. Emma shares her journey on Dragon's Den, the challenges and opportunities that arose from her appearance, and how it impacted her brand. She discusses the intense experience of pitching, the immediate spike in brand awareness following the show, and the subsequent growth and challenges in her business. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… Transitioning from a side project to a full-time business. Product development. Brand ambassador programs. Utilising platforms like Amazon. Emma's Dragon's Den experience. Understanding your audience. Building a brand community. Utilising freelancers. New marketing platforms like TikTok. Balancing personal life with business. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Laceeze 03:13 From Concept to Product 05:46 Transitioning to Full-Time 08:48 Product Development and Expansion 12:05 Marketing Strategies and Brand Growth 15:10 Funding and Financial Growth 17:47 The Dragon's Den Experience 21:07 Preparing for the Pitch 27:56 The Intensity of Pitching on Dragon's Den 30:58 The Impact of Dragon's Den on Brand Awareness 34:45 Post-Show Opportunities and Challenges 39:34 Embracing New Marketing Trends 41:02 Personal Reflections 46:28 Balancing Business with Personal Life 48:27 Defining Personal Success

Brewing Tradition & Shaping The Future: The Hall & Woodhouse Story, with Anthony Woodhouse

On the 250th episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Anthony Woodhouse, Chairman of Hall & Woodhouse, shares insights into the legacy of the family-owned brewery and pub company, which has been in operation since 1777. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of maintaining a family business over generations, the importance of reinvestment in the company and community, and the balance between tradition and innovation in the hospitality sector. Anthony emphasises the need for educating future generations about the business's values and the impact of structural changes in the industry. Anthony discusses the evolution of pub culture, emphasising the changing demographics of pub-goers. He also addresses the significance of succession planning in family businesses, sharing insights on legacy and the need for a forward-looking mindset. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… The importance of being a custodian of the family business. How reinvestment leads to longevity. Community impact over shareholder profits. Educating the next generation. Balancing tradition with innovation. Headwinds in the hospitality sector. Changes in pub culture and demographics. Moral decisions leading to better commercial outcomes. Trusting the next generation. Engagement with the community. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Hall & Woodhouse 02:56 Custodians of a Legacy 05:58 Longevity in Family Businesses 09:04 Reinvestment and Community Impact 11:56 Educating Future Generations 15:13 Balancing Tradition with Innovation 18:13 Headwinds in the Hospitality Sector 26:10 Pub Culture and Gender Dynamics 31:27 The Brewing Legacy 36:15 Succession Planning 39:18 Mindset Shift 46:08 Personal Definition of Success

Leading Together: Business, Balance and Baggette + Co

On this episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast, Jo and Oscar Hjälmås discuss their journey as co-owners of Baggette + Co., a financial services firm. They share insights on their management buyout experience, the importance of maintaining company culture during rapid growth, and the strategies they implemented to ensure effective communication and team engagement. In this engaging conversation, Jo and Oscar discuss the delicate balance between delivering exceptional customer service and ensuring financial viability in their business. They share insights on navigating personal and professional boundaries while working together as a couple, the impact of family dynamics on their business, and their definitions of success both personally and professionally. This episode of the Evolve to Succeed Podcast covers… The importance of defining roles and responsibilities in a partnership. Effective communication. Celebrating team successes. Customer satisfaction. Organisational structure. Working as a married couple in a business setting. Employee well-being. Delivering service with no sales targets. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Baggette + Co. 03:10 The Journey to Business Ownership 05:53 Navigating Roles and Responsibilities 09:03 Management Buyout 11:58 Growth and Expansion 14:54 Maintaining Company Culture During Growth 17:49 Communication and Team Engagement 20:56 Client-Centric Business Approach 31:35 Balancing Customer Delight and Financial Responsibility 36:30 Navigating Personal and Professional Boundaries 42:31 Family Dynamics on Business 46:10 Defining Success: Business and Personal Aspirations