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Unbrandme

BRND WGN

Welcome to Unbrandme, the BRND WGN podcast hosted by Peter-Jan Grech where we unpack the stories of brand owners, entrepreneurs and disruptors to understand how their life stories and lessons have impacted the brands and businesses they build and lead. Over the last 18 years at BRND WGN, working with so many great clients has fuelled my belief that better people make better brands and better brands make a better world.

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  • 20 episodes
  • monthly
  • Avg 53 min
  • English

Episodes 20

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  • August 3 · 48 min

    Becoming Your Own Hero: Reinvention & Happiness - Arnaud Collery - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 031

    In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Arnaud Collery—entrepreneur, international speaker, coach, and CEO of Humanava—to explore a life shaped by curiosity, courage, and continuous reinvention.From working in finance to performing as a comedian and actor, becoming a filmmaker, and pioneering the role of Chief Happiness Officer, Arnaud’s journey challenges the idea that we must follow one fixed path. He shares how storytelling, emotional intelligence, and positive psychology can help us better understand ourselves, navigate change, and build more meaningful lives.We explore the importance of owning your story, finding the confidence to evolve, and creating spaces where people can connect, contribute, and thrive. Arnaud also reflects on resilience, purpose, and why becoming the hero of your own life begins with having the courage to take control of the next chapter.A thought-provoking conversation for anyone ready to embrace change, rediscover their passion, and turn personal reinvention into lasting impact.

  • #30
    July 6 · 49 min

    Growing Through Difference: Dean Gera’s Journey of Craft, Confidence & Salon Success - EP 030

    In this episode, Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Dean Gera, Founder of Dean Gera Salons, to explore the personal story behind one of Malta’s most recognised salon brands. Dean shares his journey of becoming who he is today, from growing up with dyslexia to finding confidence through craft, creativity, and hard work. What began as a passion for hairdressing has grown into a trusted brand with multiple salon locations, a dedicated academy, and a team built around technique, service, and client care. This episode is a story of resilience, self-belief, and building a brand from the inside out—a must-listen for anyone who has ever felt different, underestimated, or driven to prove what is possible.

  • S1 · E29
    April 8 · 57 min

    From Depth to Direction: Reinventing Identity Beyond the Ocean - Neil Agius - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 029

    In this episode of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Neil Agius, not just the Olympian and world record holder, but a man in transition. While many know Neil for his extraordinary feats in the ocean, this conversation goes deeper, exploring the evolution of identity beyond performance. From athlete to entrepreneur, from partner to father, Neil opens up about the shifts that have redefined his purpose. We touch on his journey through ultra-endurance swimming as the foundation and more importantly, as the catalyst. The real story lies in what those experiences unlocked: a deeper understanding of self, discipline, and the responsibility that comes with influence. Neil shares how The Ocean Mindset was born, not from success alone, but from failure, reflection, and a desire to translate extreme lessons into everyday life. He speaks candidly about leadership, efficiency, and the importance of building a sustainable way of living in a world that glorifies burnout. Now stepping into fatherhood, Neil reflects on how this new chapter is reshaping his perspective on risk, presence, and legacy. This episode is not about swimming, it’s about becoming. A conversation on growth, identity, and the continuous pursuit of who we are meant to be.

  • S1 · E28
    March 12 · 48 min

    Glitch Effect: Building Malta’s Global Electronic Music Festival - Kevin Ellul - The Unbrandme EP028

    In this episode of the Unbrandme Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Kevin Ellul, co-founder of the internationally acclaimed Glitch Festival. What began in 2015 as a bold vision to elevate Malta’s electronic music scene has evolved into one of the island’s most globally recognised festivals, drawing thousands of music lovers from over 80 countries.Kevin shares the story behind the Glitch brand, from its collaborative beginnings with former competitors to its reputation for meticulous curation and unforgettable festival experiences. We dive into how the team built a brand rooted in quality, focusing on artist lineups, production, and the powerful connection between music and Malta’s unique setting.The conversation also explores the realities behind running global music events. Kevin opens up about the early controversies that forced venue changes, the unpredictability of outdoor festivals, and the immense challenge of navigating the COVID-19 pandemic just as the founders committed full-time to the business.Today, Glitch has expanded beyond Malta, bringing its signature events to cities like Berlin, Amsterdam, and Melbourne, strengthening the brand internationally while continuing to attract visitors back to Malta for the flagship festival.This episode is a story of creativity, resilience, and relentless ambition, showing how a small island festival can grow into a global movement while staying true to its roots.

  • S1 · E27
    February 11 · 49 min

    From Physio to Founder: How Matthew Camilleri Built Rise Physio+ | EP027

    What does it take to turn a passion for health into a thriving business? In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, host Peter Grech sits down with Matthew Camilleri, the founder of Rise Physio+. We strip away the corporate facade to look at the real journey of entrepreneurship in the healthcare sector. Matthew shares his transition from practitioner to business owner, the challenges of scaling a service-based brand, and the philosophy behind Rise Physio+. In this episode: The origin story of Rise Physio+. Balancing patient care with business growth. The reality of building a brand in the health industry. Leadership lessons and future visions.

  • S1 · E26
    Aug 11, 2025 · 48 min

    From Glass Ceilings to Global Stages: Lilly Pavlou - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 026

    In Episode 26 of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter-Jan Grech sits down with Lilly Pavlou, Executive Director of Qube Events, for a conversation that goes far beyond event planning. From her early days in Pretoria, South Africa, to running one of the most innovative events companies in the world, Lilly shares her remarkable journey of resilience, purpose, and leadership.She opens up about “the ceiling hitting her,” leaving a career she loved, and how that moment sparked the creation of Qube Events almost 10 years ago. Lilly reflects on the values that guide her, content and contact, and why building authentic, connected communities is the heartbeat of her work.We explore the highs and challenges of the global events space, the transition to digital during the pandemic, and her recent venture into M&A advisory with Hatton, helping companies navigate growth and legacy. Packed with practical wisdom, Lilly’s story is about courage, adaptability, and leading with heart.Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone who believes in the power of human connection, this episode is one to remember.

  • S1 · E25
    Jun 23, 2025 · 1 hr

    Pierre Lindh: Building a Billion-Euro Vision (Without the Ego) - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 025

    In this episode of UnbrandMe, Pete sits down with Pierre Lindh: co-founder of NEXT.io, endurance athlete, and one of the most influential voices in the iGaming world. Pierre’s story begins at 17, when he found himself running one of Scandinavia’s largest underground poker clubs until a police raid landed him on the front page of three national newspapers. What could have ended his career before it began instead sparked a journey that led him to become a respected entrepreneur, community builder, and advocate for a more human-centred industry. What struck me most in our conversation wasn’t just his story, it was his presence. Calm, deeply self-aware, and remarkably generous, Pierre is someone who leads with clarity and puts people first. Whether we were talking about building a billion-euro brand or rebuilding a company that lost 100% of its revenue during COVID, his answers were grounded, intentional, and always people-focused. We explore the roots of his leadership philosophy, his passion for endurance sports, and the routines and rituals he uses to sustain high performance without burning out. We also talk about Malta, the future of conferences, and why he believes integrity, not ego, is the foundation for success. If you're a founder, a team leader, or someone curious about the quieter truths behind success, this episode is worth your time.

  • S1 · E24
    Jun 2, 2025 · 1 hr 10 min

    Rewriting the Script: From Journalism to Entrepreneurship -Jesmond Bonello - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 024

    In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, Peter Grech sits down with Jesmond Bonello, Co-Founder and Managing Director of Content House — Malta’s leading digital media publisher. Jesmond’s journey from his early days in radio and journalism to building one of the country’s most resilient media businesses alongside his partner and wife, Isabelle, is both inspiring and instructive. This open conversation traces a 30+ year evolution of media in Malta, from print to digital, and unpacks what it takes to lead through crisis and opportunity. Jesmond shares insights on navigating ad-funded journalism, competing with the tech giants, and what it takes to build (and keep) a strong team. For anyone passionate about the media landscape, entrepreneurship, and the power of reinvention, this episode offers a front-row seat to Jesmond’s remarkable story.

  • S1 · E23
    Apr 28, 2025 · 49 min

    Branding Between Worlds: From FMCG Roots to iGaming Mastery - Marija Hammon - EP 023

    In this episode of The UnbrandMe Podcast, host Peter Grech sits down with Marija Hammon—an accomplished marketing strategist whose journey began in FMCG before carving out a standout 13-year career in the iGaming industry.Marija shares how her foundational years in consumer goods shaped her approach to branding, and how she’s since adapted and thrived in the fast-paced, regulation-heavy world of iGaming. From team leadership to building brands that resonate, Marija opens up about what it takes to lead with clarity and creativity across industries.We explore the nuances of personal branding—why it matters more than ever, and how it has guided Marija’s transition from corporate marketing leader to independent Brand & Marketing Consultant. Her story is one of evolution, empowerment, and fearless career reinvention.Whether you’re leading a team, managing a brand, or redefining your own path—this one’s not to be missed.

  • S1 · E22
    Mar 28, 2025 · 47 min

    From Family Business to Global Stages - Michael Virardi - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 022

    In this powerful episode of the UnbrandMe Podcast, Peter Grech sits down with Michael Virardi—renowned keynote speaker, trainer, and author—who made the bold decision to step away from his family’s thriving business in Cyprus to pursue his true calling: inspiring leaders on a global stage. Far from a story of escape, Michael’s time in the family business shaped his deepest insights into leadership, human connection, and emotional intelligence. It’s where he learned to read people, lead with empathy, and build trust—skills that now form the bedrock of his work with executives and teams across the world. We explore the courage it takes to reinvent your path, the art of connecting with any audience, and the responsibility of leading with purpose in an unpredictable world. Michael’s work continues to re-energise leaders, helping them rediscover their voice, their mission, and their drive. This episode is a testament to the power of self-awareness, bold vision, and the kind of leadership that leaves a lasting mark.

  • S1 · E21
    Mar 11, 2025 · 53 min

    From Fired to Fearless: Claire Abela’s Journey of Resilience, Tribe & Triumph - EP18

    In this candid episode of UnbrandMe, host Peter Grech sits down with Claire Abela, the fearless founder of LUCY—Malta’s premier makeup experience. Claire opens up about the defining moment when her father fired her at 19, forcing her to rebuild herself the hard way. She shares how that setback ignited a journey of grit and determination, ultimately transforming adversity into success. Claire also reveals the secret behind LUCY’s vibrant culture: building a tribe. Her passion for her team and her unique leadership approach have been instrumental in elevating the brand to new heights. Moreover, she discusses how she copes with life’s tough moments—giving herself a set time to grieve before bouncing back stronger than ever. This episode is a powerful testament to resilience, raw leadership, and the relentless pursuit of passion. Whether you're an entrepreneur or simply seeking inspiration, Claire’s story will leave you motivated to turn challenges into triumphs.

  • S1 · E20
    Feb 17, 2025 · 56 min

    A Life of Leadership: Helga Ellul on Brands, Business Growth, Succession & Making an Impact - The Unbrandme Podcast EP20

    In Episode 20 of The UnbrandMe Podcast, we sit down with Helga Ellul, former CEO of Playmobil Malta and one of Malta’s most respected business leaders. Helga shares her incredible journey—from arriving in Malta in the 1970s to playing a key role in establishing Playmobil as a global brand. She opens up about the challenges of leading in a new culture, mentoring teams, and the lessons she’s learned about business growth, succession, and leadership. Her impact on Malta’s economy, business landscape, and future leaders is undeniable. Tune in for an inspiring conversation filled with real insights from a leader who helped shape Malta’s business world.

  • S1 · E19
    Jan 27, 2025 · 53 min

    Leading with Care: Jean Claude Muscat’s Journey from Family Clinic to Healthcare Leader - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 019

    In this episode, Peter Grech sits down with Jean-Claude Muscat, CEO of Malta’s largest private hospital, to unpack his extraordinary journey. Jean-Claude shares how he helped transition St. James from a small family clinic into Malta’s leading private healthcare facility, now expanding to include a state-of-the-art hospital in Hungary. We explore the challenges of global expansion, including navigating the complexities of opening—and eventually closing—in Libya, as well as the strategies he implemented to overcome these hurdles. Jean-Claude dives into how he built robust processes and redefined onboarding for new doctors to ensure consistent, top-tier patient care across borders. This episode is a story of vision, resilience, and innovation in the face of adversity—a must-listen for anyone curious about leadership, global business growth, and driving meaningful change in the healthcare industry.

  • S1 · E17
    Oct 30, 2024 · 58 min

    Beyond Words: Rebecca Bonnici on Language, Leadership & Life Lessons - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 17

    In this episode of The Unbrandme Podcast, host Peter Grech welcomes Rebecca Bonnici, CEO of Business English Language Schools (BELS). Rebecca takes us through her inspiring journey from a young educator to the owner and leader of her father’s language school, transforming it into one of Malta’s premier ESL institutions. She shares the personal and professional challenges she faced taking on a family legacy at a young age, as well as the impact of motherhood on her leadership style. Rebecca also dives into her vision for Malta’s tourism industry, advocating for ways to attract high-quality visitors and create enriching experiences. Join us for an engaging conversation packed with insights on language, leadership, family, and the future of tourism in Malta!

  • S1 · E16
    Sep 30, 2024 · 1 hr 1 min

    Raw Leadership and Relentless Creativity: Jon Mallia’s Journey - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 16

    In this episode of UnbrandMe, host Peter Grech sits down with Malta’s most renowned podcaster, Jon Mallia. From his roots in the Maltese rap scene to his meteoric rise on YouTube with over 2.65 million views, Jon shares his journey of creativity and leadership across multiple platforms. We dive into his personal brand, the energy behind his success, and his unwavering dedication to using storytelling to address national issues. This episode is packed with inspiration, straight talk on building a motivated team and community, and insights into Jon’s raw approach to growth and trust.

  • S1 · E15
    Sep 9, 2024 · 53 min

    Bridging Communities for Change: Andrew Schembri’s Mission with Żibel - The Unbrandme Podcast EP 015

    In this episode of UnbrandMe, host Peter Grech sits down with Andrew Schembri, co-founder of Żibel, a pioneering NGO dedicated to cleaning Malta’s seas and raising environmental awareness. What started as a simple Facebook-organised beach cleanup has grown into a nationwide movement. Andrew shares how his experience in the family business helped him build Żibel into a successful NGO that bridges the gap between activists, the private sector, and the public. From tackling sea pollution head-on by collecting waste from Malta’s seabeds to introducing innovative recycling solutions, Żibel is transforming challenges into opportunities. Tune in as Andrew discusses the importance of collaboration, education, and creative problem-solving to make a lasting impact on the environment and future generations.

  • S1 · E14
    Jul 29, 2024 · 50 min

    Pay Yourself First: Mastering Personal Finance with Patrick Debattista | The Unbrandme Podcast EP014

    Join us on the UnbrandMe Podcast as we explore personal finance with Patrick Debattista, a financial coach dedicated to democratizing financial knowledge. Patrick’s journey began with personal financial challenges, inspiring him to empower others through his initiative, Finance For You. In this episode, we discuss effective financial planning, overcoming money taboos, and aligning financial practices with personal happiness. Patrick also shares how he’s built a successful personal brand and leveraged social media to amplify his impact. He introduces the “pay yourself first” philosophy, a strategy to ensure financial security by prioritizing savings and investments. Tune in for actionable insights that can transform your financial health and personal well-being.

  • S1 · E13
    Jul 8, 2024 · 59 min

    From Dorm Rooms to Boardrooms: Ben Grech

    Join host Peter Grech on the UnbrandMe Podcast as we explore the remarkable journey of Ben Grech, a visionary entrepreneur who transformed the student accommodation landscape with his company, Uniplaces. Raised in the UK with summers spent in Malta, Ben’s unique upbringing infused him with a global perspective from an early age. Inspired by early mentorship and his leadership in establishing the Entrepreneurship Society at the University of Nottingham, Ben embraced the power of meaningful connections to launch his venture. In this episode, Ben shares the genesis of Uniplaces during his university days with co-founders Amaro and Kostelec, and how their idea blossomed into a global enterprise. As the former CEO, Ben recounts the exhilarating challenges of international expansion and securing over $30 million in funding, highlighting a pivotal $24 million from the prestigious VC firm Atomico. His transition from CEO to Non-Executive Chairman and later to CEO of Reposit illustrates his strategic vision for scaling businesses and his belief in companies as vehicles for positive change. Dive into Ben’s insights on leadership, innovation, and the impact of building businesses that not only succeed commercially but also contribute positively to society. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur or seasoned business leader, Ben’s story offers invaluable lessons on growth, resilience, and the transformative power of entrepreneurship.

  • S1 · E12
    Jun 17, 2024 · 50 min

    Beyond the Code: Gege Gatt- The Unbrandme Podcast EP 012

    Explore the fascinating world of AI and tech with Gege Gatt, a leader in digital ethics and AI innovation and CEO of London-based company EBO. This episode offers a rare glimpse into how technology is shaping our future, guided by principles of ethical leadership, everything from AI’s impact on children’s education to the role of leadership in tech. Gege’s blend of legal expertise and tech innovation, coupled with his social activism, offers a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in today’s digital world. Dr. Gatt provides a visionary outlook on how we can harness technology for human progress.

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