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 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.
11 snips
Oct 16, 2025 • 32min
Human Resources: Is HR Out of Control?
Neil Morrison, an HR director with decades of experience, discusses the evolving role of HR in shaping company culture and mitigating risks. Nicole Whittaker shares insights on the necessity of outsourced HR for small businesses and the complexities of compliance. Pamela Dow critiques HR's recent expansion, raising concerns about a potential ideological bias. The panel debates the balance between HR's influence on workplace policy versus productivity, highlighting the impact of social movements and calls for strategic alignment with business goals.
14 snips
Oct 9, 2025 • 34min
Chaos Management: Do Fewer Rules Make For Better Workplaces?
In this engaging discussion, Erin Meyer, a Professor at INSEAD and co-author of 'No Rules Rules,' explores how chaos can foster innovation while balancing control and creativity. Jesper Brodin, the outgoing CEO of Ingka Group (IKEA), shares insights on maintaining a culture that empowers decision-making amid structure. They delve into the benefits of minimal rules for autonomy, the importance of shared purpose, and how to navigate leadership during crises. The conversation highlights how embracing a bit of chaos can lead to remarkable organizational flexibility.
Oct 2, 2025 • 31min
Spinouts: How Can Universities Turn Research Into Successful Businesses?
What happens when university research becomes a business? It’s called a spin-out and it’s built Silicon Valley, with Stanford University at the centre. In the UK, Oxford alone has launched more than 200 in the last 15 years. Whether it’s a new drug, software or material, brilliant university research can create huge rewards – for founders, universities and the economy. But also battles over who really owns the idea and should get a share of the equity. Does the spin-out system deliver or does it stall? Evan Davis and a panel of guests discuss. Guests:
Molly Allington, CEO of Albotherm
Harry Destecroix, co-founder of Ziylo and also founder of incubator Science Creates in Bristol
Amber Hill, founder of Research GridProduction team:
Presenter: Evan Davis
Producers: Phoebe Keane and Sally Abrahams
Production co-ordinator: Rosie Strawbridge
Sound engineer: Rod Farquhar
Editor: Matt Willis
