Wake Up to Money

Nicky Masterman, Founder and CEO of Inspired HR, shares insights on the evolving dynamics of human resources, particularly neurodiversity and AI's transformative role. Freddie Cahoon, Investment Director at JMFIM, discusses the impact of recent gilt market trends on consumer borrowing. They also highlight the financial struggles of Welsh Rugby teams and the critical challenges faced by students during exam pressures. Together, they emphasize the need for structural changes in education and sports to promote inclusivity and community engagement.

Sean Farrington speaks to Andrew Georgiou, President & Managing Director of Warner Bros. Discovery Sports Europe and Paul Barber, Chief Executive of Premier League club Brighton and Hove Albion FC

David Hall, Managing Director of Brita UK, discusses how economic news shapes business and consumer confidence. Emma Wall, Head of Platform Investments at Hargreaves Lansdowne, shares insights on the British economy and investment strategies. They explore the impact of rising costs on families and businesses, particularly in food and fuel. The conversation also touches on how social media is shifting consumer behavior, especially during economic downturns. Lastly, they delve into the challenges and triumphs of launching new hospitality ventures post-COVID.

Simon Spirrell, Director of Hartington Creamery and entrepreneur, shares insights on how the drought in Derbyshire is reshaping the dairy farming landscape. Jane Foley, Head of FX Strategy at Rabobank, discusses the economic implications of the ongoing Ukraine conflict, particularly on global energy and agriculture markets. They also explore the impact of AI on the gaming industry and how Soho House is navigating growth amid evolving market demands and exclusivity challenges. Tune in for a blend of economics, agriculture, and entertainment!

Anna MacDonald, an Investment Manager at Aubrey Capital, Colleen Jackson, Executive Chief of Cloud9 Insight, and Andy Hunder, President of the American Chamber of Commerce in Ukraine, discuss critical economic themes. They dive into the emotional impact of the Vivergo bioethanol plant closure and the urgent need for sustainability in the UK. The trio also explores the rising demand for air conditioning in the heatwave and contrasts the UK's robotics adoption with China's advanced tech landscape, highlighting challenges for emerging businesses.

In this engaging discussion, Catherine Jacob, the CEO of cinema advertising company Pearl and Dean, explores the revival of cinema attendance alongside economic implications. Lucy Cootes, an investment director at J.M. Finn, shares insights on UK GDP growth and the surprising strength of the construction sector. Steve Nolan, a lecturer in economics, emphasizes the impact of rising Premier League ticket prices on fan loyalty. Together, they examine the challenges traditional retailers face amidst changing shopping habits and economic uncertainties.

Simon French, Chief Economist at PAMIO Libram, Jada Glissina, Managing Director at Luminance, and Catherine Shuttleworth, Chief Executive of Savvy Marketing, delve into critical issues impacting retail and the economy. They discuss the collapse of Claire's and its effect on employment, alongside a growing labor crisis in UK farming threatening food security. The trio also emphasizes the need for diverse talent in the evolving AI landscape and the importance of blending interpersonal skills with technical expertise to prepare for future job markets.

In this discussion, Martin Hoffman, CEO of On Running, delves into the booming running shoe market and the brand's rise despite recent challenges. He shares insights on innovative strategies that keep On relevant, like tapping into consumer preferences for athleisure. The conversation also highlights Liverpool's cultural influence on fitness trends and the importance of workplace culture for talent attraction. Hoffman explains navigating the complexities of global sports business, from trade policies to celebrity partnerships, while maintaining brand integrity.

The CEO of Rolls Royce reveals ambitious plans to dominate the UK market through innovations in narrow-body aircraft and small nuclear reactors. Discussions also dive into the impact of rising food prices, particularly on families during the summer holidays. There’s a focus on strategies for budget-friendly meal prep for kids, alongside insights into the shellfish industry's struggles amid climate challenges. The episode wraps up with the financial woes of Thames Water and the shifting dynamics in the podcasting landscape.

Joining the discussion are Nicola Downing, a savvy business leader with deep tech roots, and Beth Beneke, the innovative founder behind a popular baby product company. They dive into the recent extension of the US-China trade truce, unpacking its implications for American businesses. Beth shares firsthand challenges her company faces from tariffs, highlighting the complexities of compliance and rising costs. Meanwhile, they explore the impact of geopolitical shifts on economies and how the evolving landscape forces businesses to adapt and strategize.