Secret Leaders

In the world of entrepreneurship, we dream about the BIG EXIT.   We talk about mergers, acquisitions and IPOs…  But there's one exit strategy that's often whispered about Selling to private equity.  Today, we're pulling back the curtain on this mysterious world with someone who's not only been through it, but has come out the other side a fan. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dominic McGregor was riding high as the co-founder of Social Chain, a social media agency that exploded from scrappy startup to global player in just a few short years. But as the company grew, so did Dom's drinking problem - until it all came crashing down. In this conversation, Dom shares the inside story of his battle with addiction, from the red flags he ignored to the moment he hit rock bottom, and the painful but transformative journey of getting sober and rebuilding his life.  The life of a founder isn’t alway glamorous. From the relentless pressure to perform to the loneliness and isolation that can come with the top job.  If you've ever wondered how to spot the signs of addiction in yourself or your team or what it really takes to face your demons and come out stronger on the other side, this episode is for you. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsl

Imagine building a company from the ground up, pouring your heart and soul into it for years, only to reach a point where you realise it's time to step aside as CEO.  How do you know when it's the right time? How do you navigate that transition while setting the company up for continued success? And what comes next for you as a founder? These are the crucial questions we're diving into today with Evgeny Shadchnev, a founder who has lived through this very journey. Evgeny is an author and co-Founder Makers, a coding bootcamp that has trained thousands of software developers.  After nearly a decade at the helm, he made the difficult decision to step down as CEO in 2020. In our conversation, we talk about the complex emotions and strategic challenges of this process.  Evgeny shares how he knew it was time to move on, the importance of planning ahead, and the pitfalls to avoid when hiring and onboarding a successor. We also discuss the surprising commonality of founder transitions and why they should be seen as a

The first time Christian Angermayer took psychedelics in 2014, it changed the trajectory of his life. Nearly a decade later, he has become one of the most influential voices in the world of biotech, crypto, and anti-aging. People look to him for guidance on the next big thing, they invest in his ventures hoping to be a part of something groundbreaking, and they listen to his bold ideas about pushing the boundaries of human potential.  It is not hyperbole to say that Christian Angermayer is one of the most visionary entrepreneurs of our time. Christian's approach to business and life is supposedly about embracing the controversial, but that's what makes it so compelling. Everyone can relate to the desire to challenge the status quo. Everyone knows the feeling when society tells you something is impossible or off-limits, but you want to pursue it anyway. Everyone can relate to the drive to optimize and enhance our bodies and minds. If you don't feel inspired by Christian's vision, you might be playing it too

Andy Brown, a seasoned leadership coach, shares his journey as a founder of a once-thriving marketing agency. He reveals how the business's rapid growth and his own ambition led him down a path of loss of focus and personal burnout. As the company took on more clients and expanded its services, Andy found himself stretched thin, trying to be involved in every aspect of the business. His belief that he was indispensable ultimately became a double-edged sword, leading to a lack of trust in his team and an overwhelming burden of responsibility. Andy highlights the importance of maintaining a clear vision and focus for your business, even in the face of rapid growth and new opportunities. He also emphasises the need for founders to learn to let go, delegate effectively, and build a strong team that can support and sustain the company's success. His experience serves as a powerful reminder that success is not just about working harder, but also about working smarter and building a business that can thrive beyon

Scott Galloway, serial entrepreneur, NYU professor, and author of "The Algebra of Wealth," shares his hard-won insights on building lasting, meaningful wealth as a founder. Scott and Dan discuss the key components of his wealth-building philosophy: focus, stoicism, time, and diversification.  He dives deep into the practical strategies behind each pillar, sharing personal anecdotes and counterintuitive wisdom that challenges conventional notions of success. He argues that true wealth is about more than just financial success - it's about crafting a life that aligns with one's deepest values and aspirations. So if you're ready, to not just build a successful business, but to create lasting, multi-dimensional wealth - this episode is for you. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newslett

What does it take to bounce back from a business blunder that nearly costs you everything?  Ask Joel Primus, the Founder who went from a mortifying moment on Dragon's Den to a multi-million dollar exit - and then found himself on the brink of bankruptcy when a global pandemic hit. Joel takes us behind the scenes of ill-fated underwear launch that left him red-faced on national television and scrambling to save his company.  Through it all, Joel emerges with a newfound appreciation for the long game of entrepreneurship, the power of perseverance, and the importance of confronting one's fears head-on. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Discover the Secrets to Becoming "Unstressable" with Mo Gawdat and Alice Law Former Google X executive Mo Gawdat and stress management expert Alice Law share their revolutionary approach to thriving under pressure. Mo and Alice challenge the notion that stress is inevitable for success. They explore the far-reaching impacts of chronic stress, practical strategies for building resilience, and the transformative power of purpose and authenticity. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking peak performance or simply craving a more balanced life, this episode will inspire you to reclaim your well-being and unlock your full potential. Tune in to discover the secrets to becoming "unstressable" and thriving in all areas of life. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://w

From hitting rock bottom to tripling his business overnight! Executive development specialist Jim reveals how admitting his shortcomings to his wife became the catalyst for transformation, leading him to quit drinking and embark on a path of self-discovery.  Whether you're battling your own demons or simply seeking inspiration to reach your full potential, Jim's story offers a compelling testament to the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and the courage to change." … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Nick Sabine, Co-Founder of Resident Advisor (RA), shares his journey of self-discovery and the transformative power of authenticity in leadership and life. From his early inspiration in the electronic music scene to the challenges of growing a global brand, Nick candidly discusses the struggles of maintaining authenticity, navigating co-founder relationships, and leading through crisis. A life-altering divorce and a period of self-reflection, including embracing boredom and solitude, led Nick to reconnect with his true self. This newfound authenticity reshaped his leadership style, allowing him to build genuine connections with his team, which proved crucial when COVID-19 hit, wiping out 95% of RA's revenue. Nick offers a rare glimpse into the high-pressure world of the music industry, while reminding us that true success lies in the depth of our relationships and the courage to be unapologetically ourselves. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com

In the face of failure, do you quit or persevere? Alden Mills, a former Navy SEAL who has navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship. Alden shares the invaluable lessons he learned about failure during his time in the SEALs and how he applied them to his business ventures. From the brink of bankruptcy to generating nearly $100 million in sales, Alden's journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of staying connected to your passion and purpose. Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Success isn't just about having a great product or service. You know that standing out in a crowded market is tough. But what if you could cut through the noise and build a loyal following that drives real results for your business? Enter the power of personal branding. Chris Donnelly, Founder of Verb and Lottie, shares his insights on leveraging your personal brand to supercharge your entrepreneurial journey. With over 35 million content views per week, Chris has cracked the code on authentic, impactful personal branding. And it’s true, building a strong personal brand isn't easy. It requires consistency, vulnerability, and a willingness to experiment. But if you do it right; you will find an enormous amount of opportunities. If you want to start a new side hustle, you’ll have a jump start. If you want to fill a role in your company, you’ll have countless applications, and if you want to climb the corporate ladder, you’ll be getting a little more attention. Whether you're a seasoned Founder or just starti

What happens when a successful home exchange company tries to launch a rental business? Emmanuel Arnault, CEO of Home Exchange, shares his experience of investing a million dollars in a new rental venture that ultimately failed. Emmanuel dives into the strategic mistakes they made, the challenges of balancing a flagship business with a new side project, and the important lessons he learned about leadership and resource allocation along the way. From the initial planning stages to the final decision to pull the plug, He discusses the importance of adapting one's leadership style as a company grows and the pitfalls of relying too heavily on intuition when launching a new venture. Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more abou

Can you achieve high performance without losing yourself? Jake Humphrey, top sports broadcaster, believes the key to high performance is inner contentment. He shares his radical approach to happiness and achievement. From overcoming bullying to battling imposter syndrome, he's learned that true success isn't about accolades, but about being true to yourself. Through personal stories and practical tips, Jake offers a roadmap for redefining success on your own terms. Discover the mindset shifts and daily practices that have transformed his relationships, career, and sense of purpose. Whether you're an entrepreneur seeking balance or just someone craving a more fulfilling path, Jake's insights will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to prioritise joy. Tune in to unlock a new level of performance and satisfaction in all areas of life … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secret

Jerry Rosengarten is a seasoned, serial entrepreneur and designer who, somewhat unexpectedly, created a revolution in menswear when he designed the leisure suit. However, the leisure suit's success was short-lived. Jerry reveals how knockoffs and cheaper fabrics flooded the market, ultimately leading to the downfall of his business. Through his experiences, Jerry imparts valuable lessons for entrepreneurs, emphasising the importance of pivoting in the face of challenges and having a reliable "drizzler" – a steady source of income to fall back on during tough times. His story serves as a reminder that even the most promising ventures can unravel, and adaptability is key to long-term success. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes.

As a founder, uncertainty is the air you breathe. Sam Conniff, entrepreneur, bestselling author, and co-creator of the Uncertainty Experts, shares his invaluable insights and strategies for navigating the unknown and transforming your relationship with risk. Drawing from his experience and the Uncertainty Experts program, Conniff breaks down the mental models and techniques that can help you find stillness and comfort in the face of uncertainty—and reveals how anyone can build their uncertainty tolerance and thrive in the chaos. … Promo Uncertainty Experts Use this link to get 25% off when you join the Uncertainty Experts experience: https://www.uncertaintyexperts.com/offers/kCVosyU9/checkout?coupon_code=SECRETLEADERS Start by measuring your uncertainty tolerance: https://www.uncertaintyexperts.com/quiz Check out the research behind it all Here and Here Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://perso

Alison Caffrey opens up about the perfect storm she faced as a new mom and entrepreneur. With her business reliant on her time and her husband losing his income, Alison found herself answering client emails mere hours after giving birth. She shares her emotional journey, from using alcohol to cope with stress to the realisation that her business needed a complete overhaul.  … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As a leader, your number one job is to be an effective communicator.,  Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and author Charles Duhigg shares his incredible insights and practical strategies for mastering the art and science of effective communication.  Drawing from his new book, "Supercommunicators," Duhigg breaks down the techniques that set apart those rare individuals who seem to have a magic touch when it comes to conversations and connections—and reveals how anyone can tap into those same skills.  From handling tough talks and building trust to crafting messages that motivate and inspire, this masterclass in communication is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone seeking to build stronger relationships and unlock their full potential. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our histori

Tom McLeod, a serial entrepreneur, shares his wild journey of building 5 companies and surviving a dozen failures. From spy camera apps to failed iPhone tossing games, Tom's story is a masterclass in resilience and failing fast. He reveals the gut-wrenching story of his startup Omni, which despite a successful exit, fell short of his ambitious vision. Tom's key lesson? Take loads of shots, learn from failures, and avoid getting knocked out. … Sponsors Vanta - get 20% off security certifications like ISO27001 and SOC2: https://vanta.com/secretleaders Personio - all in one HR platform: https://personio.com/secretleaders -- Newsletter Sign up here: https://secretleaders.email/. You can find our historic newsletters here: https://www.secretleaders.com/episodes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There is a problem. Lawyers and Founders have misaligned incentives. Daniel van Binsbergen, lawyer turned founder, shares his perspective on tackling legal challenges in the startup world. Having Founded and exited Lexoo, a legal marketplace, DVB bridges the gap between the legal world and the entrepreneurial mindset. From prioritising legal matters and managing risk tolerance, to fostering a productive relationship with your lawyer and adapting to the fast-paced startup environment - expect actionable insights and candid advice on how to effectively handle legal aspects while not being distracted from your business.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices