The Bottom Line
BBC Radio 4
The definitive business podcast from the BBC. Each week, the BBC's Evan Davis is joined by bosses, entrepreneurs and industry experts, to lift the lid on how their businesses work, and what it’s like to be in charge. They discuss a big issue, a big challenge, or a big question facing their industry. From managing AI to managing millennials, from supermarkets to supercharging a new product.And our guests will share their stories of success and failure along the way. Podcasts are published every Thursday. And as well as being a podcast, we are also available every Thursday afternoon and Tuesday evening on BBC Radio 4. You can now also listen to The Bottom Line on a smart speaker. If you want to listen, just say "Ask BBC Sounds to play The Bottom Line”. It works on most smart speakers.The Bottom Line has published a spin off series - Decisions That Made Me - where Evan asks entrepreneurs and business leaders about the most crucial moments in their lives and careers. You can watch these episodes here: https://t.ly/oJ8lW. Got a question or a comment? Get in touch with Evan and the team on email at bottomline@bbc.co.uk.The Bottom Line is produced in partnership with The Open University and is an EcoAudio certified production.
Episodes
Mentioned books
Dec 25, 2025 • 16min
The Decisions That Made Me: Margaret Heffernan
Margaret Heffernan didn’t start out in business. Until her mid-30s, she was enjoying a successful career at the BBC, producing and directing TV dramas and documentaries. But she was always curious about a career in the corporate world. She decided to take the plunge and took on roles in the US. It was as CEO of a tech firm when Margaret discovered she was being paid 50% less than her male counterparts that she faced one of her biggest decisions. As she explains to Evan Davis, should she speak out and risk the consequences or put up and shut up?(Image: Margaret Heffernan. Credit: mheffernan.com)
Dec 18, 2025 • 22min
The Decisions That Made Me – Joey Gonzalez (Barry’s)
When Joey Gonzalez took his first class at Barry’s, West Hollywood, he says “it was love at first sweat”. The music, night-club vibe and high-intensity workout was life-changing. Joey was convinced he could expand the fitness brand beyond Los Angeles. So, he worked his way up through the company, starting as an instructor and becoming CEO in 2015 - creating Barry’s studios across the US and around the world. And even now, as Executive Chairman, Joey still leads a workout. He tells Evan Davis why his background in musical theatre and performing arts is ideal for being a Barry’s “entertrainer”.(Image: Joey Gonzalez. Credit: Barry's)
Dec 11, 2025 • 14min
The Decisions That Made Me: Sameer Vuyyuru
Sameer Vuyyuru has spent his career at the cutting edge of technology. From building semiconductors at Texas Instruments to launching an AI-startup in Shanghai, he’s now chief artificial intelligence and product officer at Capita, the outsourcing giant. An opportunity, he says, to introduce disruptive technology inside an established company. The intrapreneur talks to Evan Davis about the power of AI and the influence his grandfather has had on his life.(Image: Sameer Veruyyu Credit: Capita)
9 snips
Dec 4, 2025 • 14min
The Decisions That Made Me: Harry Destecroix (Ziylo, Science Creates, SCVC)
Harry Destecroix, an entrepreneur and scientist, co-founded Ziylo while pursuing his PhD, creating technology to revolutionize diabetes treatment. He discusses his challenging journey, including funding struggles and pivotal decisions that led to Ziylo's acquisition by Novo Nordisk for a whopping 600 million pounds. Harry also founded Science Creates, an incubator supporting deep-tech startups, and a VC fund to foster university research. His passion for STEM outreach is evident as he shares plans to engage thousands of children in entrepreneurship.
Nov 27, 2025 • 14min
The Decisions That Made Me: Sophie Mirman
Sophie Mirman, the entrepreneurial force behind Sock Shop and Trotters, shares her remarkable journey from a traumatic childhood experience to business success. She reflects on her early days at Marks & Spencer and how that shaped her drive. Sophie recounts the thrill and chaos of taking Sock Shop public, navigating the pressure for rapid growth. She candidly discusses the pitfalls of U.S. expansion and the lessons learned, leading her to create Trotters, a brand focused on a measured, enjoyable retail experience.
Nov 20, 2025 • 14min
The Decisions That Made Me: Jesper Brodin (IKEA)
Jesper Brodin, CEO of Ingka Group and a 30-year IKEA veteran, shares his journey from a young purchase manager in Pakistan to leading transformative changes in sustainability and digital expansion. He reflects on invaluable lessons learned from IKEA's founder, Ingvar Kamprad, and the significance of adapting to customer needs. Jesper also discusses his plans after stepping down, including a unique tradition of buying a new guitar to mark life transitions. His insights blend business strategy with personal growth, making for an inspiring conversation.
5 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 15min
The Decisions That Made Me: Heather Vernon (Woburn Partners)
Heather Vernon, co-founder of Woburn Partners and former Teach First educator, shares her unexpected journey from teaching to politics and entrepreneurship. She reveals the challenges of working in Westminster and how her experiences shaped her resilience. Heather discusses the moment she decided to start a PR firm with James Robinson, emphasizing the importance of having a co-founder. She also reflects on the impact of COVID-19 on her business and the strategic decisions needed for growth, highlighting her commitment to reputation and crisis management.
16 snips
Nov 6, 2025 • 32min
Hypotheticals: How Would You React If You Were Boss?
Margaret Heffernan, a former CEO and leadership expert, joins Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip, and Sophie Mermin, retail entrepreneur, to tackle tough business hypotheticals. They explore scenarios like unexpected tariffs and giant competitors, emphasizing the importance of customer focus and strategic flexibility. Margaret suggests unique survival tactics, while Sophie advises trusting instincts. They debate whether to absorb costs or lobby against tariffs and discuss the significance of brand coherence in marketing. Their candid insights make for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation.
Oct 30, 2025 • 34min
Productivity: How Can British Business Work Smarter?
Productivity drives prosperity, yet the UK continues to lag behind countries like the US, France and Germany. We work harder, yet produce less than our peers. In this episode, Evan Davis and guests discuss what productivity really looks like in practice – from offices and factories to call centres and operating theatres. And ask whether AI could be the boost Britain's economy needs. Guests:
Katy Davies, Managing Director, Cap Air Systems
Louise Stead, Group Chief Executive, Royal Surrey and Ashford and St Peter’s NHS Foundation Trusts
Sameer Vuyyuru, Chief AI and Product Officer, CapitaProduction team:
Presenter: Evan Davis
Producer: Sally Abrahams
Production Co-ordinator: Katie Morrison
Sound engineers: Dafydd Evans and Duncan Hannant
Editor: Justine Lang
14 snips
Oct 23, 2025 • 39min
Introverts: Can Quiet Voices Conquer The Corporate World?
Richard Etienne, a communications consultant and founder of Introvert Space, shares insights on thriving as an introvert in the workplace. Clare Farthing, a business coach focused on introverted solopreneurs, discusses overcoming extrovert dominance in corporate settings. Heather Vernon, co-founder of Woburn Partners, emphasizes the value of balanced teams. They explore methods for making meetings inclusive, effective networking strategies, and the importance of recognizing quieter voices, empowering introverts to confidently navigate corporate challenges.
