How I Became ... - podcast cover

How I Became ...

Ashley Samuels-McKenzie and Charles Parkinsonwww.weunify.co.uk
How do you become a CEO? How do you run a £10-£100m+ company? How do you start your own company? Learn from people who've done it, here on How I Became...
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Episodes

E64 | Work Getting You Down? How To Leave And Start A Business - Get Inspired By Jack Renwick’s Story Pt.2

Jack Renwick is a multi-award-winning designer renowned for her passion for innovative ideas. She collaborates closely with clients, delving into the core of their challenges and demonstrating how creative thinking can drive progress. As the founder of Jack Renwick Studio, Jack has spent the past 25 years working on a diverse array of projects for high-profile clients such as Amnesty International, eBay, BBC, Nokia, Royal Mail, Sir Elton John, and Stella McCartney. Her work has garnered acclaim ...

Jul 24, 20241 hr 29 minEp. 64

E63 | The Key Ingredient to Achieving Success | Part 1 of The Life Story of D&AD President, Jack Renwick

Jack Renwick is a multi-award-winning designer renowned for her passion for innovative ideas. She collaborates closely with clients, delving into the core of their challenges and demonstrating how creative thinking can drive progress. As the founder of Jack Renwick Studio, Jack has spent the past 25 years working on a diverse array of projects for high-profile clients such as Amnesty International, eBay, BBC, Nokia, Royal Mail, Sir Elton John, and Stella McCartney. Her work has garnered acclaim ...

Jul 23, 202447 minEp. 63

E62 | Building a Company Worth Hundreds of Millions: The Story Of Rob Pierre

Rob Pierre is a renowned investor, advisor, and one of the UK's most successful media leaders. In 2005, he co-founded the digital marketing company Jellyfish. As CEO, he expanded the business to over 2,000 employees across 28 global offices, serving high-profile clients such as Google and Netflix. In June 2023, Jellyfish was acquired by The Brandtech Group. Today, Rob is dedicated to sharing his wealth of experience and passion for innovation to inspire the next generation of business leaders. T...

Jul 17, 20242 hr 25 minEp. 62

E61 | When Life Feels Out of Control: Learn How to Thrive in Turbulent Times With Olympian Yusra Mardini

Recorded Live at Spotify Beach in Cannes Olympic swimmer and Syrian refugee Yusra Mardini fled the Syrian Civil War with her sister Sara, making the perilous journey to Europe at only seventeen, including a treacherous crossing of the Aegean Sea in 2015. After finding refuge in Germany, Yusra was selected to compete as part of the inaugural Refugee Olympic Team at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro and again in Tokyo four years later. On World Refugee Day 2023, Yusra announced the launch of her...

Jul 10, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 61

E60 | Rising from a Tiny Texas Town to Spotify's C-Suite: Dustee Jenkins' Story

Recorded Live at Spotify Beach in Cannes Dustee Tucker Jenkins is a seasoned leader with nearly two decades of expertise in communications, media relations, executive positioning, government affairs, community relations, and reputation management. Currently, she serves as the Chief Public Affairs Officer for Spotify, where she oversees Government Affairs, Public Policy, Global Experiential & Content Productions, and manages enterprise-wide communications across 183 markets. In Episode 60 of ...

Jul 09, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 60

E59 | Discovering Your Life's Purpose: A Step-by-Step Guide to Achieving It | Joy Taylor

Recorded Live at Spotify Beach in Cannes Joy Taylor, a seasoned sports journalist and host, has been a prominent figure in the media industry for nearly a decade. She hosts the Fox Sports 1 show "Speak" alongside LeSean McCoy and Emmanuel Acho. In addition to her hosting duties, Joy runs the "Maybe I’m Crazy" podcast, where she delves into stories from the NFL, NBA, and the broader sports world. She also hosts "The Hang" on Facebook Live. In a special episode recorded at Spotify Beach in Cannes,...

Jun 27, 202446 minEp. 59

E58 | The Secret To Growing A Podcast & Secrets of Men | The Receipts Co-Host, Tolly T

Tolani Shoneye, popularly known as Tolly T, is best known as one half of The Receipts Podcast, a leading UK podcast she co-hosts with Audrey Indome. Beyond the podcast, Tolani has made her mark as a writer, host, and influencer, contributing to publications such as Elle, The Independent, OK, and The I. She is a respected voice on topics like dating, love, race, culture, and self-empowerment. This week, we explore her experiences with racism in the UK, her journey in hosting one of the UK's bigge...

Jun 19, 20242 hr 13 minEp. 58

E57 | From Post Room To CEO. The Untold Story Of Cannes Lions CEO, Simon Cook

Simon Cook is the CEO of the LIONS Division, overseeing LIONS, WARC, Contagious, and Acuity Pricing to promote impactful creative marketing. Over the past decade, Simon has driven the creation of two-thirds of the Lions awards. He has also expanded LIONS' offerings to include year-round intelligence and advisory services, in addition to its renowned Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity. A fervent advocate for creative marketing excellence that enhances business performance, Simon al...

Jun 12, 20241 hr 19 minEp. 57

E56 | Love, Loss and Drive: The Story Behind The Woman At The Helm Of Paramount+ UK

Anna Priest, the Senior Vice President and Head of Paramount+ for the UK and Ireland, played a pivotal role in the successful launch and rapid growth of the streaming service. Her efforts were instrumental in building the brand and expanding its subscriber base through strategic partnerships with major players like Sky, Three, and Virgin. Before her tenure at Paramount+, Anna held senior marketing positions at A+E Networks, Britbox and Comic Relief. She cut her teeth and learned her craft at the...

Jun 05, 20241 hr 53 minEp. 56

E55 | Learn How to Set Winning Goals: Business Mastery Tips from Ex-Meta VP Leigh Thomas

Leigh Thomas, formerly the Vice President of Global Partnerships for Meta in EMEA, has led a senior team providing strategic C-suite support and advice to some of the world’s most sophisticated businesses across industries such as CPG, Autos, Retail, Tech/Telco, and eCommerce. She brings over 20 years of experience from her tenure in creative agencies, including her roles as Managing Director at Saatchi & Saatchi, London, and CEO at DARE, awarded Digital Agency of the Decade. Beyond her prof...

May 22, 20242 hr 23 minSeason 5Ep. 55

Skepta Unveils 'Tribal Mark': Inside His Black Superhero Universe | E54

Recorded Live At SXSW 2024 At The British Music Embassy. We sat down with Co-Producer Adam Strawford and Skepta at SXSW to discuss his debut film Tribal Mark. Flipping the script on James Bond, Tribal Mark is the first glimpse of a complex Black Secret Service story that Skepta, together with co-director Dwight Okechukwu, have been working on since 2021. We discuss: - Embracing Nigerian heritage in the UK - Bringing Tribal Mark from vision to reality - Tips for aspiring creatives - Crafting a su...

May 17, 202431 minEp. 54

E53 | Defy the Doubters: Frank Turner Opens Up On Addiction & Music Evolution

Recorded Live At SXSW 2024 At The British Music Embassy. Frank Turner kickstarted his musical journey as the frontman of post-hardcore outfit Million Dead, later transitioning to a predominantly acoustic solo career after the band's disbandment in 2005. Throughout his solo career, Frank has launched nine studio albums, with his latest release, "FTHC," hitting the number 1 spot on the UK albums chart in 2022, just a week after its debut. In the second instalment of a four-part special recorded at...

Apr 24, 202441 minEp. 53

E52 | Unlocking AI: How To Pivot To An AI-Driven Business Model | The Amigo Partnership, Mat Kiddie

With over 25 years of experience spanning global network and medium-sized independent advertising, integrated, and digital agencies, Mat brings a wealth of expertise in creative, and digital strategy. Beginning his career as a Senior Account Manager at Ogilvy in the early 2000s, Mat has since climbed the ranks and successfully established and sold his own companies. Currently serving as CEO of the Amigo Partnership, an integrated creative agency, Mat leads a team dedicated to seamlessly integrat...

Apr 17, 20241 hr 43 minEp. 52

E51 | Turning Dyslexia Into Your Business Superpower with Paul Wright | Head of Uber Advertising UK&I

Paul Wright, as Head of Uber Advertising for Uber UK&I, spearheads a dedicated team focused on driving business success. His career journey began at Sky, transitioning from TV sales to the burgeoning commercial web arena. Along the way, he co-founded a sports-focused ad network and held pivotal digital roles at Bauer and AOL. Venturing into Apple's inaugural ad business, iAd, Paul assumed leadership across international markets. He's also played integral roles in various Adtech ventures, not...

Apr 10, 20241 hr 44 minEp. 51

E50 | Feeling Like Giving Up on Life? Reasons Not To And Why I Signed Coldplay | Simon Williams

Recorded Live On Stage At SXSW 2024 At The British Music Embassy During the early '90s, Simon Williams pioneered the renowned indie label Fierce Panda, which became synonymous with launching singles by iconic bands such as Coldplay, Supergrass, Death Cab For Cutie, Ash, Keane, The Maccabees, and numerous others. Serving as a cornerstone of London's independent music scene, Fierce Panda bridged the gap between the UK's vibrant musical underground and mainstream charts. In one of four special epis...

Apr 03, 202429 minEp. 50

E49 | Navigate Your Career Pivot: Practical Wisdom from Alison Hutchinson CBE’s Transition from Banking CEO To Charity CEO

Alison Hutchinson CBE, CEO of Pennies, an award-winning fintech charity, also serves as Senior Independent Director at DFS plc, Yorkshire Building Society, and Foresight Group Holdings Ltd. Awarded a CBE in 2016 for her contributions to the economy and charities, Alison has a diverse background, including 15 years at IBM overseeing global operations, leading e-commerce solutions in the financial services sector, and serving as CEO of a digital subsidiary joint venture with Accenture and Barclays...

Mar 27, 20241 hr 45 minEp. 49

E48 | Bringing Amy Winehouse to America, Promoting Queen's Radio Gaga & The Origin Story Of BME At SXSW

With over three decades of immersion in the Music Industry, Phil boasts extensive experience, particularly on the International stage. His career spans collaborations with major and independent record labels, wherein he has played pivotal roles in the development, marketing, and promotion of artists and catalogues across diverse musical genres, both in the UK and globally. He’s worked with the likes of Amy Winehouse, David Bowie, Queen, Barry White and many more Currently serving as a Music Indu...

Mar 20, 20241 hr 30 minEp. 48

E47 | How To Make Bold Life Decisions | Natalie Campbell MBE, Running For London Mayor 2024

Natalie Campbell MBE, an acclaimed social entrepreneur and distinguished broadcaster, assumes the role of Co-CEO at Belu Water during the day—a beverage enterprise prioritising people and the environment. Belu's impactful contributions to WaterAid have surpassed £5.4 million, aiding WaterAid's mission to provide clean water, decent toilets, and improved hygiene worldwide. Recently appointed as the Chancellor of The University of Westminster, Natalie unveiled the groundbreaking 'Chancellor's Circ...

Mar 13, 20241 hr 37 minEp. 47

E46 | Simple Steps to a Happier, More Fulfilling Life | Aline Santos, Chief Brand + EDI Officer Unilever

Aline commenced her journey with Unilever Brazil in 1989, embarking as a marketing trainee. Her initial decade was dedicated to Brand Building within Local Marketing Operations, followed by an impressive 17-year stint in Brand Development on a global scale. Accumulating a wealth of 35 years at Unilever. Beyond her marketing endeavours, Aline assumed the role of Unilever’s Chief Diversity & Inclusion Officer. In this capacity, she orchestrates strategies and initiatives aimed at fostering gen...

Mar 07, 20241 hr 33 minEp. 46

E45 | Channel 4 NED Tess Alps: A Guide To Living Fearlessly

Tess Alps, currently serving as a Non-Executive Director of Channel 4, boasts over 40 years of profound experience in the dynamic realm of advertising. Notably, she held the positions of Founding CEO and Chair at Thinkbox, the influential marketing body for commercial TV in the UK, representing a staggering 99% of TV advertising revenue. Establishing this company in 2006, Tess embarked on a mission to underscore TV's enduring effectiveness, articulate its dynamic future across all technologies, ...

Feb 28, 20241 hr 51 minEp. 45

E44 | Your Passion, Your Income: How To Build A Living Doing What You Love | Sonnaz Nooranvary

Sonnaz Nooranvary, a creative entrepreneur and skilled craftswoman based in the UK, gained prominence as the resident upholstery expert on The Repair Shop. Her journey into the world of upholstery began at the age of 17 through an apprenticeship, where she honed her keen eye for detail and precision craftsmanship. Fueled by her entrepreneurial spirit, Sonnaz took a bold step at the age of 25, establishing her own business that offers a comprehensive range of interior services to both individuals...

Feb 21, 20241 hr 52 minEp. 44

E43 | The Secret To Building Trust With Executives | WPP U.K. President, Karen Blackett OBE

Karen Blackett OBE currently serves as the UK President for WPP, the world's largest marketing services group. A highly esteemed business leader, Karen boasts an impressive track record marked by her ability to foster vibrant cultures, inspire teams, and consistently drive business growth and success. Previously holding the position of GroupM UK CEO, Karen successfully navigated the challenges posed by the critical period of the COVID pandemic. Beyond her executive roles, Karen is recognised as ...

Feb 20, 20242 hr 5 minEp. 42

E42 | Billion-Dollar Leadership: Inside the Mind of British Council's CEO and Former Oliver Wyman Chief

Born in Toronto, Canada, Scott McDonald, the CEO of the British Council, spent his formative years in Saudi Arabia where his parents played pivotal roles in the establishment of the King Faisal Specialist Hospital in Riyadh. With a background rooted in healthcare and education—his father a doctor and his mother a teacher and nurse—Scott's upbringing was marked by a commitment to service. Scott's professional journey includes a significant tenure at Oliver Wyman, where he served as the Managing P...

Feb 07, 20242 hr 10 minEp. 42

E41 | From Consultant To Netflix Sensation | Bridgerton Star Left The Corporate World To Pursue Her Dreams

Charithra Chandran, born in Perth, Scotland, is the daughter of Tamil Indian medical professionals. Her parents separated when she was two, leading her to India with her father, where she lived with her grandparents in Tamil Nadu. Returning to the UK at the age of four, she pursued her education in Liverpool, Suffolk and Oxford. Graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, Politics, and Economics from New College, Oxford in 2019, Charithra actively participated in various productions during...

Jan 31, 20241 hr 42 minEp. 41

E40 | Winning Under Pressure: From FIFA and Arsenal to £450bn Government Triumph | Rupert Daniels

As the Director, Services and Skills at the Department for International Trade, Rupert Daniels assumes the crucial role of aiding UK organisations in their global expansion endeavours. His responsibilities encompass fostering export development and attracting foreign investments. Rupert's diverse portfolio spans across various sectors, including sports, film, television, music, gaming, fashion, education, and digital commerce. Collaborating with teams both within the government and the Departmen...

Jan 24, 20241 hr 58 minEp. 40

E39 | The Hidden Art of Global Leadership: A CEO's Secrets to Worldwide Success | Karina Wilsher

Karina Wilsher, Partner and Global CEO of Anomaly, spearheads key client initiatives, fortifies the agency's global presence and propels the company's ongoing evolution as an industry trailblazer. Karina, who ascended from Partner and CEO of Anomaly's London office to Partner and Global CEO in 2019, offers an exclusive look into her distinctive approach to leading six global offices. In this insightful discussion, she delves into the critical importance of 'feeling the business.' Karina unpacks ...

Jan 17, 20241 hr 53 minEp. 39

E38 | Unlock Your Hidden Passion: Follow Gihan Hyde's Unexpected Path to a Fulfilling Life – Discover How

Gihan Hyde, the accomplished CEO & Founder of CommUnique, one of the UK’s most renowned ESG Strategy and Communications Advisory Firms. Communique is B.Corp certified making it the first Black, Arab, female-founded organisation to be certified in the world. Gihan is the recipient of the UK’s “CEO of the Year” award for the work she is doing with the sustainability specialists who are from underrepresented communities and from underdeveloped countries. Gihan is one of the most influential “40...

Jan 10, 20241 hr 28 minEp. 38

E37 | The Hidden Keys to Mastering Wealth and Love Like Never Before! | David McQueen's Personal Tales

David McQueen, a committed speaker (as seen on TED), executive coach, and advisor to multi-national organisations, he is deeply passionate about leadership. He has accumulated more than three decades of experience in the field. Having transitioned from an accounting background to the tech industry, he effectively applies his commercial expertise. Fifteen years ago, he founded his consultancy, Q Squared, with the goal of enhancing organisational communication, serving notable clients such as Merc...

Jan 03, 20241 hr 47 minEp. 37

Best Of Episodes 9-12 | Season 1 | How I Became Podcast

Explore the most memorable moments and highlights from season one of How I Became. From the most heart-warming scenes to the exhilarating twists and turns, this retrospective journey through season one is sure to showcase the extraordinary elements that contributed to the moments that shaped the essence of season one. Chapters: 00:00:00-Dino Myers-Lamptey 00:05:31-Raj Kumar 00:09:09-Paul Bainsfair 00:15:12-Metz ti Bryan Episode 9 - Dino Myers-Lamptey Dino Myers-Lamptey Linkedin: https://www.link...

Dec 29, 202324 min

Best Of Episodes 5-8 | Season 1 | How I Became Podcast

Explore the most memorable moments and highlights from season one of How I Became. From the most heart-warming scenes to the exhilarating twists and turns, this retrospective journey through season one is sure to showcase the extraordinary elements that contributed to the moments that shaped the essence of season one. Chapters: 00:00:00-Ibrahim Kamara 00:05:14-Julian Douglas 00:08:58-Rowan Manning 00:12:59-Sue Unerman Episode 5 - Ibrahim Kamara Ibrahim Kamara’s Linkedin: https://uk.linkedin.com/...

Dec 27, 202317 min
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