Peer Effect podcast

33:21

"Don't waste your chips on bad hands." Dimitar Stanimiroff has been through multiple exits, some successful, some painful shutdowns. He co-founded WePow(acquired) and Heresy (shut down after 3.5 years). His biggest financial return came from joining Stack Overflow, not founding his own company. In today's episode, I'm joined by Dimitar Stanimiroff, a seasoned SaaS founder, operator, and investor who's experienced both sides of the exit coin. After co-founding WePow and seeing it acquired, he started Heresy, raised $1M in venture funding, and ran it for 3.5 years before making the difficult decision to shut it down. He then joined Stack Overflow as an operator and helped scale it, resulting in his biggest financial return to date. Together we unpack: Why "quitting on time feels like quitting too early" and the real cost of staying too long How to think of your entrepreneurial journey like poker chips; finite resources you can't waste The hard reality of shutting down a business after raising venture capital Why his mentor Joel Spolsky told him to quit just months after launching When plateauing milestones become warning signs it's time to fold 👆 If you're a founder struggling with the decision to persevere vs. pivot vs. shut down, this conversation provides a framework for making one of the hardest decisions in business. About Dimitar Stanimiroff Dimitar Stanimiroff is a seasoned SaaS founder, operator, and investor. He co-founded WePal (acquired) and Heresy, and helped scale Stack Overflow, Handshake, and CrossBeam to over $100M ARR. As an angel investor in B2B SaaS, he's backed Patch.io, Lightdash, and others from pre-seed to Series A. His biggest insight: think of your time as poker chips and don't waste them on bad hands. Connect with Dimitar Stanimiroff on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Rebuilding and Automating a Business From the Ground Up, with Tara Button 32:49

il y a 6 weeks32:49

32:49

"I had to let everyone go and run the entire business myself." Tara Button's Buy Me Once had raised £3 million and grown to 14 staff. They were burning through cash faster than they could raise it. The choice: close the business completely or go solo with AI automation. The result? Q4 2024 revenue exceeded Q4 2023 (with the full team) and they made their first profit ever. In today's episode, I'm joined by Tara Button, bestselling author and founder of Buy Me Once, a mission-driven e-commerce business finding the longest-lasting products on the planet. When facing a critical cash crisis in 2024, Tara made the radical decision to let go of her entire 14-person team and rebuild the company using AI automation, despite having zero coding experience. Together we unpack: How to identify which business tasks are truly critical (hint: it's less than you think) The step-by-step process she used to replace entire departments with automations Why she worked 16-hour days building email scrapers and inventory systems with ChatGPT How founders can start implementing AI automation without ripping everything up 👆 If you're a founder feeling overwhelmed by operational complexity or wondering whether AI can really replace human work, this conversation will open your eyes to what's possible. About Tara Button Tara Button is the founder of Buy Me Once, an e-commerce platform dedicated to finding the longest-lasting products on the planet to combat throwaway culture. After her business idea went viral in 2016, she raised over £3 million and authored the Amazon bestselling book "A Life Less Throwaway." When her business faced a cash crisis in 2024, she made the bold decision to rebuild it as a one-person operation using AI automation, resulting in their most profitable quarter ever. Connect with Tara Button on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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The Secret to Enjoying Your Scale-Up Journey, with Nick Baker 30:01

il y a 7 weeks30:01

30:01

Why You Can't Sustain What You Don't Enjoy Nick Baker left his successful consultancy after 25 years, burnt out from always being "on." He became a non-exec, convinced he'd never return to operational leadership. Then UK Padel came along, and he became CEO because he genuinely loved what they were building. The lesson? You can endure anything temporarily, but you can't sustain what you don't enjoy. About Nick Baker: Nick is the CEO of UK Padel and former co-founder of Alpha FMC, which he took through private equity investment to a successful IPO. After spending 25 years in financial services and stepping back from executive roles, Nick found himself drawn back into operational leadership through his passion for racket sports and building something he truly believed in. Together we unpack: Why genuine passion for your business isn't just nice-to-have; it's essential for long-term success How to know when it's time to step away and make yourself redundant the right way The secret to staying authentic as you scale (hint: stay involved in delivery) Why founder-led selling works so well and how to maintain that edge 👆 If you're a founder feeling disconnected from your business or wondering how to sustain your energy for the long journey ahead, this conversation will give you clarity. About Nick Baker Nick Baker is the CEO of UK Padel, which operates multiple padel clubs across the UK and runs the country's biggest national tournaments. He previously co-founded Alpha FMC, a financial markets consultancy that he grew over 25 years before taking it through private equity investment to a successful IPO. Nick is also an active angel investor, having backed over 75 startups, and serves as chairman for several businesses. Connect with Nick Baker on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Shifting from Founder to CEO, with Jennifer Clamp 29:26

il y a 8 weeks29:26

29:26

The CEO who takes all the meeting notes isn't leading. They're sabotaging their own team. They feel comfortable doing what they're good at rather than tackling new parts of their role. But what if the founder-to-CEO shift wasn't about doing different things? What if it was about fundamentally seeing your role differently? In today's episode, I'm joined by Jennifer Clamp, a founder coach who specialises in supporting founders through the founder-to-CEO transition. Jennifer works within the Founder Coaches Network, helping founders reinvent their role and stay ahead of their organisation's growth through personal development. Together we unpack: How micro-behaviours can completely undermine your attempts to delegate The shift from valuing "doing" to valuing "being" as a leader Why mindset changes are more powerful than behavioural changes How to discover your unique version of being a CEO 👆 If you're a founder or leader feeling like you've reached capacity but know there's more you want to achieve, connect with us below. About Jennifer Clamp Jennifer Clamp is a founder coach specialising in the founder-to-CEO transition, with a particular focus on supporting female founders. She helps founders reinvent their role and stay ahead of organisational growth through intentional personal development. Jennifer's approach emphasises mindset shifts over behavioural changes, helping leaders move from doing-focused to being-focused leadership. Connect with Jennifer Clamp on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Rethinking B2B Marketing in 2025 with Employee Generated Content (EGC), with Katie Street 31:58

il y a 9 weeks31:58

31:58

Your best marketing content creators probably aren't who you think they are. Most founders assume it has to be them. They overlook the thought leaders already inside their team. They default to safe, scripted content that feels awkward and inauthentic. But what if the future of marketing wasn’t about personal branding at all… What if it was about empowering your entire team? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Katie Street, founder and MD of Street Agency and host of the chart-topping podcast Marketing in the Madness . Katie works with some of the world’s top marketing tech companies and believes we're at a turning point—where brands that don’t show up with real, human content will get left behind. In an AI-driven world, authenticity and trust are your unfair advantage. And if you’re not visible, someone louder (and less qualified) will be. Together we unpack: How to move beyond founder-led content to team-powered marketing Why authentic, human content beats polished scripts every time Shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of empowerment when leading your team The rising importance of in-person events in an AI-driven world 👆 If you're a founder or leader looking to scale your marketing authentically, connect with us below. About Katie Street Katie Street is the founder and MD of Street Agency, an award-winning sales and marketing expert with recognition from BD 100, The APHIS and Beamer. She's also a passionate advocate for women in business and host of the "Marketing in the Madness" podcast. Katie's expertise lies in transforming traditional marketing approaches into authentic, people-powered strategies that actually convert. Connect with Katie Street on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James Johnson on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Why Most Partnership Strategies Fail (and How to Fix Them), with Stefan Ross 36:16

il y a 10 weeks36:16

36:16

Most founders wait too long to think about partnerships. They wait until sales hit a ceiling. Until delivery starts to buckle. Until the team is stretched too thin. But what if partnerships weren’t a backup plan? What if they were the foundation of scale? In today’s episode, I’m joined by Stefan Ross, a go-to-market operator who’s built revenue and partnership functions from seed to pre-IPO. Together we unpack: The right way to scale your delivery model without building an inflated team Why most partner programs feel “fluffy” The shift founders need to make to go from doing it all to scaling through others 👇 If you’re a founder or leader looking to scale more sustainably, connect with us below. About Stefan Ross Stefan is a seasoned GTM leader with deep experience in building and leading high-growth software companies like Celonis and Pigment. He’s led revenue functions from early-stage to pre-IPO, with a particular focus on developing scalable partner ecosystems. His expertise lies in transforming partnerships from misunderstood side projects into key drivers of repeatable revenue and long-term scale. Connect with Stefan Ross on LinkedIn here . More from James: Connect with James Johnson on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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The Power of 'Deep Work' for Founders – Reconnecting with Self and Having Fun, with Freddie Birley 35:42

il y a 11 weeks35:42

35:42

What if having more fun was the key to being a better founder? Seriously. Not just to feel good, but to actually unlock better decisions, more creativity, and a business that’s built to last. In this episode, I sit down with Freddie, founder of POP and one of the most insightful coaches I know. We talk about something that doesn’t get spoken about enough in founder circles: how to reconnect with yourself as you scale. Not in a fluffy way. But in a practical, energising, real kind of way. Together, we unpack: • The internal work that often gets left behind. • The difference between grinding through growth and actually enjoying the ride. • Why so many founders feel guilty for wanting things to be fun • Practical advise on how to make your scaling journey more enjoyable If you’re feeling stretched, stuck, or like you’re starting to lose the spark you had at the beginning… give it a watch! About Freddie: Freddie has always been fascinated by what makes people tick. She started out in anthropology, then spent years headhunting top-tier venture investors, meeting 1000s of people across the tech ecosystem. That curiosity led her into coaching, where she’s trained with some of the world’s leading thinkers in psychology, philosophy, breathwork, and leadership development. Through her practice, POP, she now works with ambitious founders and investors—helping them scale their impact without losing themselves in the process. Her clients include 100+ VC-backed founders, from early-stage to unicorns, backed by funds like Sequoia, General Catalyst, Lightspeed, Atomico, and Northzone. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Authenticity First – The Unspoken Key to Scaling Sustainably, with Emma Serlin 33:52

il y a 12 weeks33:52

33:52

What if the key to unlocking better leadership isn’t strategy or scale but something far more personal? In this episode of The Peer Effect podcast, I sit down with Emma Serlin, Founder and CEO of London Speech Workshop, to explore the unexpected ways authenticity can shape your leadership and business. As both a communication expert and a founder who’s navigated burnout, Emma shares lessons that are as practical as they are profound. Together, we unpack: • Why your personal values might be your strongest hiring filter • How vulnerability and self-awareness can transform team culture • What to do when your gut says “no” (but your head says “maybe”) • Tools for shedding shame and owning your story as a leader • How to reconnect with your purpose when the spark is gone About Emma Serlin: Emma Serlin is the Founder and CEO of London Speech Workshop , a leading communication coaching company helping individuals, from CEOs to emerging leaders speak with clarity, confidence, and impact. She's the creator of The Serlin Method®, a powerful framework for transforming the way people connect through communication. Emma is also a trained life coach, award-winning theatre director, and the author of two fantastic books! Connect with Emma Serlin on LinkedIn to learn more about her work and the London Speech Workshop. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Bet on Yourself and Stay True to Your Vision, with Jonathan Cornelias 24:54

il y a 35 weeks24:54

24:54

What does it take to scale a startup without losing sight of your vision? In this episode of the Peer Effect podcast, Jonathan Cornelias, shares the lessons learned from building four companies, including Elevent Inc, a marketplace connecting experience providers and companies to deliver unique, memorable virtual and physical experiences. Jon opens up about the mindset and strategies that have helped him navigate the challenges of scaling a business while staying true to his vision. Together we’ll dive into: Why belief in your idea and finding joy in the journey are essential for long-term success. The power of disciplined experimentation, prioritising ideas by impact, confidence, and effort, and iterating step by step. Why an effective go-to-market strategy often matters more than product perfection early on. How learning from others’ successes and mistakes can shortcut your path to growth. Jon’s insights will inspire you to embrace challenges, bet on yourself, and stay focused on what truly works for your business! Connect with Jonathan Cornelias on LinkedIn to follow his journey and learn more about Elevent Inc. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Redefining Success & Integrating Work and Life, with Kelly Ryan Bailey 26:55

il y a 36 weeks26:55

26:55

What if work-life balance isn’t the answer? As founders, the pressure to keep moving forward can feel relentless. But what if the secret to success isn’t sprinting harder, but intentionally slowing down? In this episode, I sit down with Kelly Ryan Bailey, a serial entrepreneur who’s launched 15 startups, one of which sold for $300m, to explore the power of pausing. Kelly has mastered the art of aligning personal and professional success, turning moments of reflection into a framework for sustainable growth. Together, we dive into: Why aligning personal and business goals is critical for long-term success. The role of intentional pauses in preventing burnout and fueling creativity. Kelly’s “growing forward” method for reflecting and resetting goals. How redefining success can lead to a more authentic, fulfilling life—without sacrificing financial growth. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Separating Identity from Business and Building Boundaries as a Founder, with Sean Campbell 23:47

il y a 37 weeks23:47

23:47

Has your identity become wrapped up in your business? Setting boundaries and separating your identity from your business could be the first step to building a successful business sustainably. Sean Campbell, Co-Founder & CEO at Cascade Insights, has navigated this very issue for the past 25 years and has learned through the ups and downs of running two businesses. Together we unpack: How to separate your identity from your work. The importance of delegating and creating space for your team. Why it's important to expose yourself to information you disagree with. For more, follow Sean Campbell on LinkedIn to learn more about his current business, Cascade Insights. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Mastering Hiring & Building Teams that Thrive, with Akbar Karenga 24:05

il y a 38 weeks24:05

24:05

What is the true cost of a bad hire for your company? In this episode, we’re joined by Akbar Karenga, founder of Maarusi, a talent and people consultancy driven by his passion for diversity, equity and inclusion. Akbar is an expert in high-stakes hiring and shares powerful tips for founders who need to hire fast without skipping steps. Together, we discuss: • The key difference between hiring to grow versus hiring to simply keep up. • When to bring in pro recruiters and how to create an effective, unbiased hiring process. • The hidden financial and cultural costs of a bad hire—and how to avoid them. Connect with Akbar Karenga on LinkedIn for more hiring strategies and insights. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Scaling Smarter: How Founder Forums Propel Success, with Kevin Lavelle 29:36

il y a 40 weeks29:36

29:36

What does it really take to scale beyond the early wins? For founders who’ve already seen a degree of success, reaching the next level means facing new challenges, and Keven Lavelle, founder of Harbor and Mizzen + Main knows all about it. He’s taken both companies to impressive heights, from securing a spot on Time Magazine’s 2024 Best Inventions list to hitting hundreds of millions in revenue! Together, we dive in: How joining a founder forum can offer you unmatched support & accountability– and where to find them! The differences between founding your first and second startup—and why experience doesn’t always mean an easier road ahead. Lessons learned in building a peer network that challenges you to make better decisions, see blind spots, and avoid common scaling mistakes. Stay updated on Kevin's journey of building Harbor by following him on LinkedIn . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Navigating Sustainable Entrepreneurship with Bob Bowden 17:42

il y a 41 weeks17:42

17:42

Ever felt overwhelmed by the challenges of starting and scaling a business? In this episode, we’re joined by Bob Bowdon, founder and CEO of VidaFair, a pay-per-stream video platform. Bob has worked as a reporter and producer for companies such as Bloomberg, Choice Media, and PBS. Together, we explore: • How leveraging your immediate network can make all the difference in hiring. • The importance of embracing a sustainable growth mindset for long-term success. • Knowing when it's time to pivot in your entrepreneurial journey. For more insights connect with Bob Bowdon on LinkedIn and explore his work at VidaFair . More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Creating a Culture of Well-being: Mental Health Insights for Founders & Teams 18:40

il y a 42 weeks18:40

18:40

In this special mashup episode of Peer Effect, we bring together insights on mental health, well-being, and sustainable performance from leaders who are making it happen! Michael Matania, Sam Rosen, and Dan Brownsher share real experiences on cultivating a workplace culture that prioritises authenticity, trust, and sustainability. Learn about: Creating psychological safety and fostering open feedback Moving from high-intensity performance to sustainable, balanced growth Practical strategies for building a resilient culture remotely Links: Follow Michael Matania on LinkedIn! Follow Sam Rosen on LinkedIn! Follow Dan Brownsher on LinkedIn! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Scaling Tech: Four Founders Share Their Secrets to Success 18:59

il y a 43 weeks18:59

18:59

In this special mashup episode of Peer Effect, we’ve gathered insights from four tech founders who have successfully scaled their companies. From navigating the complexities of AI integration to finding balance between innovation and operations, these founders reveal the critical strategies that propelled their companies forward. Links: Follow Eric Daimler on LinkedIn ! Follow Richard White on LinkedIn ! Follow Chuck Rinker on LinkedIn Follow Kirsten Lum on LinkedIn ! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Navigating M&A to Unlock New Markets, with Matt Bodnar 29:07

il y a 44 weeks29:07

29:07

Ever thought that Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) are just for the big names with endless cash? In this episode, ex-Goldman Sachs sailor and ‘Forbes 30 under 30’, Matt Bodnar explores how founders can leverage acquisition strategies without needing a massive war chest. Together we explore how you can use M&A to scale your business, by understanding these key insights: 1. Creative structuring and resourcefulness can open doors to acquisition opportunities earlier in your business journey than you might think. 2. Whether through hiring, partnering, or advisory roles, bringing in knowledgeable individuals can help you navigate M&A effectively. 3. Think Outside the Box! Small acquisitions can be a strategic growth strategy and offer valuable assets, talent, or customer bases while requiring minimal upfront investment. For more weekly insights on acquisitions and growth strategies, connect with Matt Bodnar on LinkedIn and check out his podcast , The Science of Success. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Harnessing Peer Influence for Entrepreneurial Growth and Team Success, with Logan Naidu 25:43

il y a 45 weeks25:43

25:43

Does character and trust matter more than high performance? In this episode, of Peer Effect, we’re joined by Logan Naidu, Founder and Group CEO of Kernel Global. He’s successfully scaled his company to $50 million in revenue and today, he’s sharing his #1 tip on how other founders can do the same by focusing on who they surround themselves with. Together we, uncover key insights for founders, like: How character and trust can outweigh even the highest performers. Why surrounding yourself with the right people can be the key to scaling your success! The art of relationship building relationships, both in professional and personal environments.. Connect with Logan Naidu on LinkedIn to learn more about his work at Kernel Global. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Navigating Founder Alignment to Avoid Toxic Pitfalls, with Alice Olafare 21:15

il y a 46 weeks21:15

21:15

What does it take to keep a team aligned, motivated, and moving towards a shared mission, even when things get tough? In this episode, Alice Olafare shares her insights as an ex-founder and her experience working with more than 120 founders. Together, we explore: • The concept of aligning a common "North Star" vision to maintain cohesion, improve performance, and avoid misunderstandings. • The power of having ongoing, open conversations, as well as external facilitation. • The process of knowing when to step down when your vision no longer aligns with your business or your co-founder. Connect with Alice Olafare on LinkedIn to stay updated on her insights and expertise in entrepreneurship and leadership. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Scaling Smart: Hiring, Delegation, and AI in Business Growth, with Richard White 24:56

il y a 47 weeks24:56

24:56

Are you hiring the fans of your company, and the people who already love your business’ product? In this episode of Peer Effect, Richard White, Founder and CEO of Fathom, offers valuable insights from his lessons learned in scaling his team from 15 to 50 this year and securing a $17m series A. Together, we uncover: How to build a motivated and efficient team early on, allowing founders to focus on strategic, high-impact work. Why delegating small tasks is crucial for founders to avoid burnout and focus on long-term goals and growth. Bottom-up hiring strategies that prioritise skill-based assessments and the right hires for tactical tasks, helping you scale without unnecessary executive overhead. Learn more about Richard White’s work at Fathom AI , the world's #1 AI Meeting Assistant, or follow Richard White on LinkedIn for more AI and founder insights. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Mastering AI Integration to Future-Proof Your Business, with Eric Daimler 23:21

il y a 48 weeks23:21

23:21

The future of AI in business? It’s already arrived. Eric Daimler, a titan in the AI space with over 20 years of experience, joins Peer Effect to show you why. With a background that spans advising the White House, co-founding over 6 tech startups, and leading Conexus AI, Eric brings some incredible insights into the transformative power of AI. Together, we dive into: • The importance of timing and adaptation, and why philosophies like "Blitz Scaling" and "Failing Fast" may not always apply to your business. • How getting specific will help your business avoid inefficiencies, enhance collaboration, and leverage AI technologies more effectively. • The value of learning from a variety of real-life experiences and being selective about the advice that founders should incorporate into their business. Discover more about Eric Daimler's work at Conexus AI or follow him on LinkedIn for more exciting insights. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Social Fit vs. Culture Fit: Diversity as a Competitive Advantage, with Jo Major 26:09

il y a 49 weeks26:09

26:09

Ever thought about how prioritising diversity and inclusion could unlock new growth for your business? What does "culture fit" really mean and do you make your company culture measurable? In this episode, Jo Major, founder of Diversity in Recruitment dives into redefining traditional recruitment filters and offers practical advice on creating an evidence-based approach to hiring while keeping diversity in mind. Together, we uncover: The critical importance of embedding DE&I early in your company's hiring practices to avoid unconscious biases and the pitfalls of a homogenised workforce. Strategies for slowing down the hiring process to improve quality and diversity, challenging the common rush of filling positions quickly to reduce costs. Practical tips for founders on assessing and reshaping hiring practices to truly reflect and promote a diverse workplace. Don't miss this episode for a chance to transform how you think about building your team! For more insights, follow Jo Major on LinkedIn. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Leading with Purpose: Key Insights from Founders on Building Culture 14:33

il y a 50 weeks14:33

14:33

A founder can make or break company culture! In this curated episode of Peer Effect, we explore essential leadership strategies with Dean Seddon (founder and CEO of MAVERRIK ), Dan Brownsher (Founder & CEO of Channel Key ), and Nigel Thomas (founder of David to Goliath ). Their insights provide valuable guidance on fostering effective leadership and building trust within growing teams. In this episode, we delve into: The crucial role of a founder’s presence in shaping and maintaining company culture. The importance of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership. Reward-centered VS responsibility-centered leadership, and the lasting impact of leading with integrity and dedication. Links: Follow Dean Seddon on LinkedIn ! Follow Dan Brownsher on LinkedIn ! Follow Nigel Thomas on LinkedIn ! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Founders Share 4 Key Lessons in Scaling and Decision-Making 14:54

il y a 51 weeks14:54

14:54

In this curated episode of Peer Effect , we've gathered insights from four industry leaders on the strategies behind successful scaling and decision-making. Sam Rosen (founder and CEO, DeskPass), Bartosz Skwarczek (founder and president, G2A.com), David King (co-founder and co-CEO, Artificial Labs), and Anouk Agussol (founder, Unleashed) share their experiences, highlighting the critical decisions that propelled their companies forward, the challenges they faced, and the leadership practices that drove their growth. Links: Follow Sam Rosen on LinkedIn ! Follow Bartosz Skwarczek on LinkedIn! Follow David King on LinkedIn Follow Anouk Agussol on LinkedIn! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Building a Global Gaming Giant through Belief and Trust, with Bartosz Skwarczek 24:33

il y a 1 year24:33

24:33

How does a startup become the world’s largest online marketplace for gaming without any funding? In this insightful episode, I'm joined by Bartosz Skwarczek, the mastermind behind G2A.com, as he shares his remarkable journey from a modest beginning in Poland to leading the world's largest online marketplace for gaming. Together, we explore: How collaboratively defining company values from the outset can foster a cohesive and motivated team environment. The strategic decisions that led to prioritising long-term quality over short-term gains. How maintaining an entrepreneurial spirit and belief in the face of adversity drives continuous innovation and growth. Don’t miss this episode if you're ready to be inspired to tackle new challenges and lead with conviction. For more practical insights, follow Bartosz Skwarczek on LinkedIn! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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The Power of Slowing Down to Scale Up, with Sam Rosen 20:15

il y a 1 year20:15

20:15

What if the secret to scaling your business successfully lies not in speeding up but in slowing down? In this episode, I explore this unconventional yet powerful strategy with Sam Rosen, co-founder and CEO of DeskPass. From the inception of DeskPass to its current state post-Series A, Sam shares his transformative journey of stepping back to make thoughtful, less emotionally charged decisions. Listen to the full episode as we unpack: • The critical role patience and empathy play in leadership • How creating space for reflection can lead to improved outcomes and stronger team relationships. • Practical tips for managing the chaos of entrepreneurial life. For more insights, follow Sam Rosen on LinkedIn ! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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The Art of Opportunity: Harnessing Timing and Simplicity to Raise £22 Million, with David King 24:21

il y a 1 year24:21

24:21

Is your startup ready to pivot when opportunity knocks? In this episode, we dive into the secrets of running a successful tech startup with David King, co-founder and co-CEO of Artificial Labs. From its inception in 2013 to raising over £22 million in funding to date, discover how David navigated the tricky waters of refining his company's niche in algorithmic and augmented underwriting for the commercial specialty sector. Together, we discuss: • Invaluable insights on the importance of timing, market conditions, and, most importantly, customer feedback. • The art of keeping your message simple and clear, especially when engaging with VCs and potential customers. • Practical tips on mastering meetings, delivering compelling presentations, and crafting a sales process that works for you. For more insights, follow David King on LinkedIn , or read more about how Artificial Labs is transforming the insurtech industry. More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Revolutionising Local Marketing and Creating a Shared Vision, with Alex Nocifera 28:02

il y a 1 year28:02

28:02

Imagine a simple observation in a Starbucks queue changing the trajectory of your entire career. In this episode of Peer Effect, we delve into the mind of Alex Nocifera. Alex's entrepreneurial journey started back in 2005, with the inception of his first venture, Ripple TV. Almost 20 years and four tech companies later, Alex is now leading LOMA , pioneering new ways to integrate digital strategies into physical locations to redefine customer engagement. Together, we explore: How Alex's approach to local advertising has reshaped multi-location brand interactions. Techniques for assembling and nurturing a team that shares your vision and drives business forward. Alex shares his strategies for balancing innovation with practical execution to ensure business resilience and growth. For more practical insights, follow Alex Nocifera on LinkedIn! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Building Sustainable Teams and Resilient Leadership, with Anouk Agussol 24:33

il y a 1 year24:33

24:33

Is your approach to people management setting you up to scale or fail? In this episode of Peer Effect, Anouk Agussol, founder of Unleashed, shares invaluable insights into strategic human resources practices, effective leadership, and resilient team dynamics that are pivotal for transforming a startup into a scalable enterprise. Together, we explore: The pivotal role of strategic HR practices from the start-up phase through scaling. The importance of a founder's presence and attitude in shaping team dynamics and maintaining morale. Techniques for balancing transparency and strength to foster a resilient, aligned team. For more practical insights, follow Anouk Agussol on LinkedIn! More from James: Connect with James on LinkedIn or at peer-effect.com…

Peer Effect

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Mastering Risk, Return, and Real Estate, with Colton Pace 22:56

il y a 1 year22:56