Behind The Future

In this episode of Behind the Future, recorded at Newcastle University during one of our Aspiration Digital events, host Becky Sims is joined by special co-host Lucia, a computer science student and Newcastle University intern, as they dive into the inspiring journey of Andrew and Pete, the founders of Atomic. From starting their first small ventures at university to creating one of the most successful communities for small business owners, Andrew and Pete share the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.Listeners will hear how the duo turned early challenges, like motivational text messages and T-shirts, into a thriving marketing consultancy and eventually launched their signature community platform. They discuss the importance of perseverance in business, the power of building a loyal community, and how combining tech skills with social marketing strategies can create a lasting impact. Andrew and Pete also reveal how their Atomic conference grew from 350 attendees to over 1,200, even navigating the challenges of running events during a global pandemic.This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, students, and anyone looking to scale their business. From learning how to price services confidently to understanding audience feedback and the critical role of fostering community engagement, Andrew and Pete demonstrate how focus, consistency, and listening to your audience are key to long-term success.Whether you’re curious about starting a business, building meaningful networks, or simply want to be inspired by the journey of two entrepreneurs who defied the odds, this episode of Behind the Future, recorded live at Newcastle University, offers actionable advice, storytelling, and motivation. Tune in to discover how communities drive growth, why perseverance matters, and the lessons you can apply to your own entrepreneurial journey.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Lucia Onofre CandelaGuest: Andrew Pickering & Pete GartlandWould you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In the “Future Unplugged: Come Behind the Scenes” bonus episode of Behind the Future, listeners get an insider look at what goes on behind the camera. With roles swapped, the hosts step back while Chris, Erin, and Lulu reveal the work that makes the podcast happen - covering camera setup, lighting, audio, editing, and scheduling. They explain how tools like Otter AI for live transcripts and AutoPod for editing streamline production and keep episodes smooth.Student co-host Daisy shares her experience as a guest, reflecting on the nerves and excitement of interviewing industry professionals and the confidence-building skills gained through networking and content creation. The team also discusses guest prep, social clip creation, and distributing episodes across platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram, highlighting how they make content engaging and accessible for students.Ultimately, the episode celebrates the crucial behind-the-scenes team, showcasing the effort, technology, and collaboration that bring Behind the Future to life.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Daisy AllingstoneGuests: Chris Male & Erin BaxterWould you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode, we explore how students are already shaping the future of tech, with insights from Lella, Head of IBM’s Global Student Strategy. From coding at just eight years old to leading global projects that connect students with industry leaders, Lella’s journey proves that you don’t need decades of experience to make a real difference in technology.She shares how her early curiosity for coding, combined with entering hackathons and creating student-led projects, led her to work with IBM to bridge the gap between students and professionals worldwide. You’ll hear how she turned challenges like limited access to computer science into opportunities, including running a global hackathon with UNESCO and building a worldwide student community that continues to inspire innovation.Whether you’re a student curious about tech, creativity, or making an impact, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and empowered. Lella’s story shows that the future of tech isn’t just about coding, it’s about curiosity, courage, and using your voice to drive change, all with the support of IBM’s global initiatives.Tune in and discover how you, as a student, can start shaping the future of tech with IBM today.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Zachary TheobaldGuest: Lella HalloumWould you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode of Behind the Future, Amber, founder of She Bytes Back, shares her journey as a woman in tech. From studying economics and working in finance to discovering coding during the pandemic, Amber reveals how she navigated a male-dominated industry and built a supportive community for ambitious women in tech.Amber talks about the challenges of breaking into tech without a traditional background, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the importance of psychological safety and peer support. She explains how teaching others and creating resources helped her grow her skills and confidence while also empowering other women to thrive in tech.This episode is perfect for students and aspiring coders curious about how to find their place in tech, build confidence, and make meaningful connections in STEM. Amber shares practical tips for learning new skills, leveraging mentorship, and navigating the challenges of remote work and onboarding in technical roles.Whether you’re exploring coding for the first time or looking for inspiration to thrive in a competitive environment, Amber’s story offers actionable advice and insights into how women can take charge, break barriers, and shape the future of tech. Tune in to discover the power of community, perseverance, and curiosity in building a successful career as a woman in tech.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Alice PenningtonGuest: Amber ShandWould you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode, we chat with Bram, Head of Brand and Digital for a major law firm, to explore the dynamic world of digital marketing and how students can navigate their path into this exciting field. Bram shares his unique journey, from studying communications and launching his own small business, to specializing in digital communications during the early days of social media for law firms.Throughout the conversation, Bram dives into the three most important things for career success. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of balancing legal precision with creative content, the power of data in proving marketing strategies, and the ever-evolving landscape of video content. Bram also offers insights into how AI is transforming the industry, emphasizing its role as an assistant for efficiency and a catalyst for new creative avenues, while cautioning against complacency and the importance of human authenticity.If you’re a student or young professional curious about digital careers, marketing, or simply how to flex your creative muscle in a corporate world, this episode is packed with actionable insights, relatable stories, and inspiration. Bram also shares his personal hacks for staying creative and the importance of having a "North Star" to guide your career journey.Tune in to hear how he embraced unexpected opportunities, the value of continuous learning and practice, and how you too can find what you love in the fast-paced digital sector. Whether you’re interested in law, marketing, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will leave you motivated to make your next jump!Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Ray HayneGuest: Bram VanoirbeekWould you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode, we sit down with Lorna Blaydon, the Chief Marketing Officer at Enterprise Nation, to explore how young people can access incredible opportunities and grow their own businesses. Lorna shares her unique journey—from university days discovering her passion for people and business psychology, to navigating internships, early career challenges, and eventually becoming CMO of a dynamic, fast-moving company.Throughout the conversation, Lorna dives into the importance of building your network, using your connections strategically, and standing out when opportunities aren’t always advertised. She reflects on the lessons she’s learned over 15 years in marketing, the value of practical experience over purely academic knowledge, and why work-life balance is key to thriving creatively and professionally.If you’re a student or young professional curious about entrepreneurship, marketing, or simply how to navigate your first steps in business, this episode is packed with actionable insights, relatable stories, and inspiration. Lorna also discusses how Enterprise Nation supports early-stage founders through innovative campaigns and partnerships with companies like Vodafone and TikTok Shop, giving young people a real platform to shine.Tune in to hear how she turned challenges into opportunities, why being proactive can make all the difference, and how you too can take control of your career journey. Whether you’re interested in startups, marketing, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will leave you motivated and ready to take the next step.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Alice PenningtonGuest: Lorna Bladenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lornabladen/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this special bonus episode of Behind the Future Podcast, meet Becky, the founder of Aspiration Digital, as she shares her journey from discovering digital marketing to creating a platform that inspires thousands of students. Aspiration Digital hosts events and workshops to give young people real insight into careers in marketing, tech, AI, creative industries, and entrepreneurship.Becky discusses how her own school experiences inspired her to bridge the gap between education and the working world. From hosting events to launching a podcast that reaches students beyond the room, she explains how Aspiration Digital shows there’s no single path to success. She also shares the challenges of finding sponsors, curating speakers, and scaling events while staying true to her mission.Throughout the episode, Becky highlights inspiring stories of students whose futures have been shaped by Aspiration Digital, proving how guidance and exposure can spark ambition and open doors.If you’re curious about digital careers, entrepreneurship, or creating opportunities for the next generation, this episode is full of actionable insights and motivational takeaways from Becky’s journey.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Jessica Day & Nina FindlayGuest: Becky Simmshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/beckyreflectdigital/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

Ever felt like school just isn’t your thing? You’re not alone. In this episode of Behind the Future, Steve Price shares his story of how he went from being an average student to becoming a Creative Director, all thanks to curiosity, hustle, and a love for drawing. As he says, “I wasn’t exceptional at school, but I could draw,” and that small talent changed everything.Steve walks us through his journey, from his amazing art teacher spotting his potential to filling countless sketchbooks with ideas that shaped his creative skills. He explains how exploring, experimenting, and sometimes breaking the rules helped him figure out what he really wanted to do, and how you can do the same. If you’ve ever wondered what creative careers actually look like, this episode is full of honest advice, funny stories, and real-life tips about getting started in the creative world.He talks about his first jobs, how networking and following up helped him succeed, and why self-doubt can sometimes be a good thing. He also shares his thoughts on AI, creativity, and why passion matters more than perfect grades. Steve’s experience shows that there’s no single path to success, and that even if school doesn’t recognise your talents, you can still turn your skills into a career.If you’re a student curious about creative careers, dreaming of design, media, or advertising, or just wondering how to turn your hobbies into something bigger, this episode is for you. Listen to Steve Price explain how curiosity, sketchbooks, and a little bit of rule-breaking helped him build his dream career, and get inspired to start your own journey.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Nina FindlayGuest: Steve Pricehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/thesteveprice/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode, Lisa Goodchild shares her insights on empowering students through real-world industry experience and hands-on learning. Lisa dives into how exposing young people to workplaces like TikTok, Google, and Spotify gives them practical skills, leadership opportunities, and a glimpse into potential career paths. She explains why traditional education can sometimes feel like a “tick-box” exercise and how students thrive when they connect their learning to things they are passionate about, from music and film to sustainability and technology.Lisa also highlights the importance of building networks, taking chances, and staying persistent, sharing stories of young people who have turned opportunities into incredible career growth. She discusses how teachers can learn from industry too, bringing fresh ideas and techniques into schools, which creates a cycle of inspiration and empowerment for students. From creating events that give students exposure to top companies, to mentoring and encouraging confidence in asking questions and chasing opportunities, Lisa offers a roadmap for how young people can take charge of their futures.Throughout the episode, Lisa reflects on her own journey, balancing career growth with wellbeing, and emphasises the power of resilience, curiosity, and collaboration. She also provides practical advice on spotting opportunities, making connections, and navigating setbacks without giving up. This episode is perfect for students, educators, and anyone interested in discovering how industry experience can unlock potential and prepare young people for the rapidly evolving world of work.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Jessica Day Guest: Lisa Goodchildhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagoodchild/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

In this episode, Joe Seddon reveals how he gets students into Oxford and Cambridge, helping talented young people overcome the barriers that often hold them back. Growing up in a small town in Yorkshire, Joe didn’t have access to the networks, guidance, or resources that many students take for granted. Despite this, he secured a place at Oxford University and immediately knew he wanted to create opportunities for others to do the same.Joe is the founder and CEO of Zero Gravity, a tech platform designed to identify and support students from low-income backgrounds, giving them the tools and mentorship they need to reach the country’s top universities and careers. From starting Zero Gravity straight out of university in his bedroom to building a thriving network of mentors and students, Joe shares the real story behind turning ambition into impact.Throughout the episode, Joe talks about the obstacles he faced, from teaching himself to code to launching a startup without a big budget, and the social barriers of pursuing an unconventional path. He also shares inspiring stories of students who, through Zero Gravity, gained the confidence, guidance, and support to secure places at Oxford and Cambridge.Whether you’re a student dreaming big, a parent supporting your child, or simply curious about how talent can be recognised and nurtured, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Joe’s journey shows how determination, creativity, and the right support can help get students into Oxford and Cambridge, proving that top-tier education is achievable—no matter your background.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & NIna FindlayGuest: Joe Seddonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joeseddon/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform