Episode 147: Turning Brewery Waste Into Eco-Leather : Brett Cotten Arda Biomaterials Gaule's Question Time podcast

#Business #Strategic #Innovation #Venture

32:48

America’s Sweethearts: Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders is back for its second season! Kay Adams welcomes the women who assemble the squad, Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammell, to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast. They discuss the emotional rollercoaster of putting together the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders. Judy and Kelli open up about what it means to embrace flaws in the pursuit of perfection, how they identify that winning combo of stamina and wow factor, and what it’s like to see Thunderstruck go viral. Plus, the duo shares their hopes for the future of DCC beyond the field. Netflix Sports Club Podcast Correspondent Dani Klupenger also stops by to discuss the NBA Finals, basketball’s biggest moments with Michael Jordan and LeBron, and Kevin Durant’s international dominance. Dani and Kay detail the rise of Coco Gauff’s greatness and the most exciting storylines heading into Wimbledon. We want to hear from you! Leave us a voice message at www.speakpipe.com/NetflixSportsClub Find more from the Netflix Sports Club Podcast @NetflixSports on YouTube, TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, and X. You can catch Kay Adams @heykayadams and Dani Klupenger @daniklup on IG and X. Be sure to follow Kelli Finglass and Judy Trammel @kellifinglass and @dcc_judy on IG. Hosted by Kay Adams, the Netflix Sports Club Podcast is an all-access deep dive into the Netflix Sports universe! Each episode, Adams will speak with athletes, coaches, and a rotating cycle of familiar sports correspondents to talk about a recently released Netflix Sports series. The podcast will feature hot takes, deep analysis, games, and intimate conversations. Be sure to watch, listen, and subscribe to the Netflix Sports Club Podcast on YouTube, Spotify, Tudum, or wherever you get your podcasts. New episodes on Fridays every other week.…

Gaule's Question Time »
Episode 147: Turning Brewery Waste into Eco-Leather : Brett Cotten Arda Biomaterials

about a year ago 20:55

MP3•Episode home

In this episode of "Gaule’s Question Time," Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) discusses with Brett Cotten (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-a-cotten/), co-founder and CEO of Arda Biomaterials (https://arda.bio), to explore a revolutionary approach to sustainable manufacturing. Arda transforms brewery waste—specifically spent grain—into high-performance, leather-like materials without relying on plastics or animal products. Brett, who began his journey in biochemistry and entrepreneurship at Penn State and later Cambridge, shares how his career evolved from biotech food startups to founding Arda with co-founder TJ, an Oxford-trained chemist.
See more information below.
You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163
To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?
You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt
Subscribe for future interviews.
See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava
Arda Biomaterials has built a team blending scientific expertise and design thinking, enabling Arda to develop scalable, environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional leather. Throughout the discussion, Brett explains the chemistry behind Arda’s materials, their performance benchmarks, and the deep supply chain innovation that sets them apart. He also highlights their community-oriented investor base and partnerships with luxury brands and local designers.
Listeners will gain insight into how Arda is tackling sustainability with a local-first, high-tech, circular economy mindset—proving that even a pint of beer can start a revolution in material science.
Using the 5Ps Strategic Framework from Andrew Gaule's book Purpose to Performance they discussed Arda
🧭 Purpose

Arda aims to replace animal and plastic materials with sustainable alternatives made from brewery waste, reducing environmental impact and ethical concerns.
⚗️ Process

They extract plant proteins from spent grain to create leather-like materials using existing equipment, enabling fast, scalable, and eco-friendly production.
👥 People

Co-founders Brett and TJ built a strong, interdisciplinary team of scientists, designers, and engineers focused on innovation and sustainability.
🤝 Partners

Supported by investors like Clean Growth Fund and collaborators from luxury brands to local designers, Arda fosters a community-driven development model.
📈 Performance

Their material has 97% lower CO₂ emissions than animal leather, is scalable, and meets early product performance standards for fashion and accessories.

116 episodes

Episode 147: Turning Brewery Waste into Eco-Leather : Brett Cotten Arda Biomaterials

Gaule's Question Time

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Arda aims to replace animal and plastic materials with sustainable alternatives made from brewery waste, reducing environmental impact and ethical concerns.
⚗️ Process

They extract plant proteins from spent grain to create leather-like materials using existing equipment, enabling fast, scalable, and eco-friendly production.
👥 People

Co-founders Brett and TJ built a strong, interdisciplinary team of scientists, designers, and engineers focused on innovation and sustainability.
🤝 Partners

Supported by investors like Clean Growth Fund and collaborators from luxury brands to local designers, Arda fosters a community-driven development model.
📈 Performance

Their material has 97% lower CO₂ emissions than animal leather, is scalable, and meets early product performance standards for fashion and accessories.

116 episodes

#Business #Strategic #Innovation #Venture

All episodes

Gaule's Question Time

1
Episode 147: Turning Brewery Waste into Eco-Leather : Brett Cotten Arda Biomaterials 20:55

7 weeks ago20:55

20:55

In this episode of "Gaule’s Question Time," Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) discusses with Brett Cotten (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brett-a-cotten/), co-founder and CEO of Arda Biomaterials (https://arda.bio), to explore a revolutionary approach to sustainable manufacturing. Arda transforms brewery waste—specifically spent grain—into high-performance, leather-like materials without relying on plastics or animal products. Brett, who began his journey in biochemistry and entrepreneurship at Penn State and later Cambridge, shares how his career evolved from biotech food startups to founding Arda with co-founder TJ, an Oxford-trained chemist. See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava Arda Biomaterials has built a team blending scientific expertise and design thinking, enabling Arda to develop scalable, environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional leather. Throughout the discussion, Brett explains the chemistry behind Arda’s materials, their performance benchmarks, and the deep supply chain innovation that sets them apart. He also highlights their community-oriented investor base and partnerships with luxury brands and local designers. Listeners will gain insight into how Arda is tackling sustainability with a local-first, high-tech, circular economy mindset—proving that even a pint of beer can start a revolution in material science. Using the 5Ps Strategic Framework from Andrew Gaule's book Purpose to Performance they discussed Arda 🧭 Purpose Arda aims to replace animal and plastic materials with sustainable alternatives made from brewery waste, reducing environmental impact and ethical concerns. ⚗️ Process They extract plant proteins from spent grain to create leather-like materials using existing equipment, enabling fast, scalable, and eco-friendly production. 👥 People Co-founders Brett and TJ built a strong, interdisciplinary team of scientists, designers, and engineers focused on innovation and sustainability. 🤝 Partners Supported by investors like Clean Growth Fund and collaborators from luxury brands to local designers, Arda fosters a community-driven development model. 📈 Performance Their material has 97% lower CO₂ emissions than animal leather, is scalable, and meets early product performance standards for fashion and accessories.…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 146: The Power of Purpose and Process in AI Transformation. Jonathan Mast AI Podcast 21:16

11 weeks ago21:16

21:16

In this episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) speaks with AI coach and mentor Jonathan Mast (linkedin.com/in/jonathanjmast), who joins from Dallas, Texas. Together, they explore how AI is reshaping business operations and employee empowerment. Jonathan shares his approach to integrating AI: focusing on saving time, increasing profits, and adding value to customer experiences. Using Andrew's "Five P’s" framework—Purpose, Process, People, Partners, and Performance—they discuss practical steps for AI adoption, the importance of structured data, and why choosing stable AI platforms matters. Jonathan emphasizes that AI is a tool to amplify skills, not replace jobs, drawing parallels to the PC revolution. They delve into future business models enabled by AI, predicting step changes when AI merges with automation and smart devices. Their conversation underscores the need for leadership in reassuring teams, selecting reliable partners, and measuring success beyond simple efficiency gains. Jonathan’s practical insights, combined with Andrew’s strategic frameworks, provide an accessible and forward-looking guide for businesses ready to embrace AI responsibly. See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava Questions and Answers Summaries: Purpose of AI in Business ➔ Jonathan stresses AI’s dual value: reducing team stress while delivering enhanced value to customers. First Steps for Implementing AI ➔ Start small, understand no tool is perfect, and use available platforms like Microsoft Copilot, Gemini, or ChatGPT. Impact of AI on Workforce Skills ➔ Leaders must help teams view AI as a skill amplifier, not a threat; those who embrace AI will thrive. Choosing AI Partners and Suppliers ➔ Stick with major, stable providers for better security and privacy; smaller tools carry more risk. Performance Metrics in AI Adoption ➔ Focus on time savings, quality improvements, and using prompt frameworks to get the best AI output. AI’s Role in Creating New Business Models ➔ Jonathan envisions AI marrying automation to create new industries, like smart utilities and intelligent appliances.…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 145: Empowering Entrepreneurs: Lydia Finnegan on Goldman Sachs’ Philanthropic Mission 29:10

13 weeks ago29:10

29:10

In this engaging and inspiring episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) sits down with Lydia Finnegan (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lydiafinnegan/) , Executive Director at Goldman Sachs, to explore the purpose, process, and people behind the firm’s impactful entrepreneurial initiatives. Lydia shares her journey from intern to leader, giving listeners a rare inside look at Goldman Sachs’ unique philanthropic focus — economic empowerment through entrepreneurship. See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava The episode centres around two Goldman Sachs flagship programs: 10,000 Small Businesses, which delivers high-impact education for growth-stage companies in the UK, US, and France; and 10,000 Women, a global initiative aimed at empowering female entrepreneurs with both business education and financial capital. Lydia outlines how these programs have collectively supported over 200,000 entrepreneurs and mobilized $3 billion in capital through partnerships with organizations like the World Bank’s IFC. More than just stats, Lydia discusses the transformative role of community, mentorship, and leadership — shaped by her own experience and the legacy of her entrepreneurial grandmother. The conversation spans purpose-driven partnerships, the challenges women face in accessing finance, and the importance of elevating small businesses to the center of economic growth. Whether you’re a founder, investor, or someone passionate about impact, this episode delivers insight, strategy, and inspiration. Great shout outs for people by Lydia included. Asahi Pompey – Senior leader at Goldman Sachs and Lydia’s mentor within the Corporate Engagement team. Charlotte Keenan – Another senior executive in Goldman Sachs’ Corporate Engagement leadership team. Lydia’s grandmother – A formidable entrepreneur who co-founded a Formula 1 brake manufacturing business in Birmingham. Rana Harvey – Founder of Monster Group, an e-commerce business based in York; part of the 10,000 Small Businesses program. Victorine Sarr Awuah – Founder of LYVV Cosmetics (Live Cosmetics), a Ghanaian beauty brand; part of the 10,000 Women program.…

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Episode 144: Reimagining Venture Capital with AI: Stephan Heller of Alpha Q VC 30:11

15 weeks ago30:11

30:11

In this compelling episode of Gaule’s Question Time, Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) sits down with Stephan Heller, founder of Alpha Q Venture Capital, to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence and venture investing. Stephan offers a unique perspective shaped by over 15 years as a tech founder and investor. See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava Stephan and Andrew unpack how AI is transforming deal sourcing, startup selection, and portfolio management. Stephan outlines the four layers of AI in investment—from foundational infrastructure to applications—and highlights the exciting potential of niche AI solutions in overlooked markets. The conversation also covers the rapid evolution of LLMs, the shift towards value-based pricing models, and the rising need for consultative sales approaches in AI products. Andrew and Stephan debate the balance between automation and human intuition in early-stage investing, and how AI can augment rather than replace key decision-making. They touch on how larger corporates might leverage AI to scale early-stage investments and the importance of understanding data sovereignty and infrastructure. With practical insights, candid reflections, and a forward-thinking mindset, this conversation is a must-listen for VCs, founders, and tech leaders navigating AI's disruptive potential in the financial and startup ecosystems. What is Alpha Q VC and how is it structured? Stephan explains Alpha Q operates as an Evergreen fund investing in other VC funds. With over 400 startups across 23 funds, their structure supports continuous investment and diversification. How is AI transforming venture capital? AI is accelerating deal flow analysis, application development, and niche problem-solving. Stephan emphasizes a 4-layer AI model: infrastructure, LLMs, APIs, and applications. What challenges does AI solve in startup selection? AI helps find “the needle in the haystack” by filtering massive volumes of startups, especially those overlooked due to unconscious bias or lack of branding. How should AI tools be priced in venture environments? Traditional user-based SaaS pricing fails with AI tools. Stephan advocates for value-based pricing due to the real compute costs and the high value they generate. Can AI replace human judgment in investing? No—venture still relies on trust and relationships. AI can aid analysis and sourcing, but final decisions require human insight and credibility. What are the biggest barriers to AI adoption in VC? Key issues include interface challenges, data sovereignty concerns, lack of process integration, and the overwhelming pace of tech evolution. To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 143: Oxbridge AI: Stories of Innovation, Community, and Global Change 29:35

24 weeks ago29:35

29:35

Andrew Gaule ( linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava ) engages with Udai Dhamija ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/udaidhamija/ ) and Francisco Morejón ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/francisco-morej%C3%B3n-75a65514a/ ), the dynamic leaders behind Oxbridge AI, an entrepreneurial hub connecting Oxford and Cambridge. Oxbridge AI has emerged as a powerhouse in fostering AI innovation, empowering startups, and creating a thriving ecosystem for aspiring entrepreneurs. More below of ventures mentioned. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min ? Subscribe for future interviews. Udai shares his journey of transforming frustration into action by building initiatives that democratize access to entrepreneurial resources, emphasizing inclusivity and impact. Francisco highlights the competitive structure of Oxbridge AI’s annual events, which encompass local, semi-final, and final rounds, supported by a robust mentor network called "Community Heroes." Together, they have catalyzed remarkable success stories, such as startups innovating in green steel production and AI-powered industrial solutions. The episode also explores the role of partners like Microsoft and Stability AI, whose support has amplified the program's reach. With over 200 applications this year, Oxbridge AI exemplifies how creative collaboration and cutting-edge technology can address pressing global challenges. Udai and Francisco's insights underline the transformative potential of AI and its role in reshaping industries and societies. Listeners are left inspired by their dedication to building an entrepreneurial community that thrives on purpose, partnership, and performance. A number of the ventures that were mentioned. JRE - AI solution for efficient and greener steel manufacturing, led by Akshat and a co-founder. https://www.jremx.com/ RegFyl - Nigerian startup transforming financial compliance, raised $1.1M in pre-seed funding. https://www.linkedin.com/company/regfyl/ Igno ta Labs - Winners of the previous year’s competition, raising seed funding and scaling. https://www.ignotalabs.ai/ Innex.ai - Returning participants working on NHS communication and knowledge systems. https://innex.ai/ Decima2 - AI platform enhancing team communication and efficiency across departments. https://www.linkedin.com/company/decima2/ Demetria - Focused on addressing endometriosis diagnosis in the femtech space. https://mydemetria.com/ 01 Creative - AI tool for streamlining content creation and achieving viral success for clients. https://01c.ai/zero-one-creative Gyre Energy - Developing innovative cooling solutions for data centers and industrial systems. https://www.gyreenergy.com Omniscient - AI-driven hardware and software solutions for detecting gas leaks.…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 142: Boardy AI - Breaking Boundaries: My First AI Podcast Guest 11:27

25 weeks ago11:27

11:27

In this groundbreaking episode, Andrew Gaule ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava/ ), author of Purpose to Performance ( https://amzn.to/4g4xk2X ), interviews Boardy.AI ( https://www.linkedin.com/company/boardy/posts/? ), an advanced AI agent designed to connect people and foster collaboration. This marks Andrew’s first podcast with an AI guest, where they dive into his renowned 5 P Framework (Purpose, Process, People, Partners, Performance).See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min ? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/ @P2PfromAimava Boardy introduces itself as a super-connector, explaining how its purpose is to empower individuals by fostering meaningful relationships that drive progress. They discuss how Boardy’s process involves deeply understanding people’s stories to make thoughtful connections. Andrew learns about the human team behind Boardy, its innovative achievements, and its remarkable $8 million funding round, led by Creandum. The conversation expands to AI’s transformative impact on industries like retail, healthcare, and marketing, as well as its potential integration into robotics and physical systems. Andrew and Boardy also tackle challenges of leadership and organizational adaptability in the face of rapid AI advancements. The podcast concludes with Andrew reflecting on the "wow moments" he witnesses during his AI workshops and how they inspire people to embrace AI’s possibilities. Boardy wraps up with gratitude, promising to continue the dialogue on AI’s evolving role in society.…

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Episode 141: Sivan Zamir of Xylem Innovaton Labs - How Xylem is Tackling Global Water Challenges 26:27

35 weeks ago26:27

26:27

Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) speaks with Sivan Zamir (https://www.linkedin.com/in/sivan-sidney-zamir/), head of Xylem Innovation Labs, about her work in tackling the world’s water-related challenges through innovative technologies. See more information below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava As a Fortune 500 company, Xylem is a leader in global water solutions, and under Sivan’s direction, the Innovation Labs are advancing initiatives that address climate-driven water issues, from scarcity to pollution and flood management. Sivan shares her journey from civil engineering to corporate innovation, highlighting her work with startups and the unique corporate incubator model at Xylem. Together, they explore how new technologies—such as AI for wastewater treatment design and satellite sensing for water quality—are changing the landscape of water management. Listeners gain insights into Xylem’s investment in partnerships, collaborative innovation, and the structural shifts necessary for creating a water-secure world. Join Andrew and Sivan for a thought-provoking discussion on the intersection of technology, sustainability, and the urgent need for water-focused climate solutions. Top Question & Answer Summaries: Introduction to Xylem and its Purpose Sivan introduces Xylem as a water technology leader with a global footprint. The company addresses diverse water-related challenges—from water sourcing and purification to distribution and infrastructure management—supporting industries, agriculture, and urban areas worldwide. Focus on Water in Climate Change Discussions Sivan explains the underrepresentation of water in climate tech investments, noting that only 3% of climate investments focus on water, despite its crucial role in climate resilience. Xylem’s Innovation Labs aim to bridge this gap and bring effective water solutions to the forefront. Xylem Innovation Labs’ Approach to Partnering with Startups Xylem’s incubator program focuses on integrating startup innovations with Xylem’s solutions by identifying market needs and creating a supportive environment where startups can thrive alongside corporate partners. Team Diversity and Global Reach at Xylem Sivan emphasizes the diversity in her team—gender, cultural, and academic backgrounds—which supports a global perspective and enables them to tackle a range of water issues more effectively. Corporate and Startup Synergy in Innovation Through Xylem’s Innovation Champions program, employees work with startups to enhance communication and bring an entrepreneurial mindset into the corporate culture, facilitating a successful flow of ideas and partnerships. Impactful Technologies: AI and Satellite Sensing Examples like EO Map’s satellite sensing and Transcend’s AI-driven wastewater treatment designs illustrate the lab’s work. These innovations bring new efficiencies to water management, highlighting Xylem’s focus on tech-driven solutions.…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 140: Lily Elsner of Jack Fertility - Revolutionising Male Fertility Testing with At-Home Solutions 28:18

37 weeks ago28:18

28:18

Lily Elsner, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/lelsner/) CEO of Jack Fertility (https://www.jackfertility.co.uk), talks with Andrew Gaule (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) about transforming male fertility healthcare with discreet at-home testing kits. Discover how the Oxford based venture, Jack Fertility is breaking barriers in reproductive health and making testing accessible for everyone. Further details below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava In this engaging episode, Andrew Gaule sits down with Lily Elsner, the CEO and Co-Founder of Jack Fertility, a pioneering startup focused on transforming male fertility healthcare. From her background in biotech and her experience in the University of Oxford's AI network, Lily shares insights on the inspiration behind Jack Fertility—a service designed to simplify male fertility testing with at-home kits. With male infertility responsible for nearly half of infertility cases, Lily discusses the stigmatized nature of male reproductive health and the need for accessible solutions. Jack Fertility’s discreet, at-home sperm testing kits allow men to bypass traditional clinical barriers, with user-friendly testing backed by innovative technology. Lily also discusses the regulatory and consumer landscape, her entrepreneurial journey, and the startup's roadmap for growth. In a space where female fertility solutions have long dominated, Jack Fertility aims to close a critical healthcare gap and promote proactive approaches to reproductive health. This episode delves into the intersections of technology, science, and social change, with Lily’s insights providing a glimpse into the future of male reproductive care. To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

Gaule's Question Time

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Episode 139: Mary McKenna MBE - Vision for Angel Investing & Empowering Female Founders 35:11

42 weeks ago35:11

35:11

See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/@P2PfromAimava Mary shares her experience building Learning Pool, an online learning business she co-founded in 2006, and reflects on the challenges she faced as a female founder. After bootstrapping the business to a £10 million turnover, she successfully exited in 2014. Mary transitioned into angel investing shortly after her exit and now focuses on supporting female-led businesses through her involvement in AwakenHub (https://www.awakenhub.com) and AwakenAngels (https://www.awakenangelshq.com). These initiatives aim to create a more inclusive investment ecosystem by bringing more women into angel investing and supporting early-stage businesses. Throughout the conversation, Mary emphasizes the importance of building a values-driven business, the need for diversity in investment, and her belief that empowering women entrepreneurs can drive positive change. In addition to supporting women entrepreneurs, Andrew Gaule introduces UpStarts4StartUps (http://upstarts4startups.com), a program he created to encourage entrepreneurship among young people. The program allows children to develop business skills by creating and selling products, fostering early creativity and entrepreneurial thinking. Mary enthusiastically supports Andrew's initiative, aligning it with her own mission to promote entrepreneurship, particularly for young women. The interview offers valuable lessons on resilience, leadership, and the evolving landscape of entrepreneurship and angel investing. Q: What is your entrepreneurial background? A: Mary McKenna founded Learning Pool in 2006, bootstrapping it to a £10 million turnover before exiting in 2014. The company grew through acquisitions and was later sold post-COVID. Q: What were the challenges you faced as a female founder? A: Mary highlighted the difficulty of securing investment as a female founder in tech nearly 20 years ago, which led her to bootstrap the business. Q: What lessons did you learn from building a business? A: Mary emphasized the importance of building a strong team and establishing values early, noting that maintaining company culture becomes harder as a business scales. Q: How did you transition into angel investing? A: After her exit, Mary began angel investing. She learned the importance of due diligence and joined syndicates to better evaluate opportunities. Q: What is AwakenHub and AwakenAngels? A: AwakenHub supports women founders, while AwakenAngels is a syndicate aimed at increasing women’s involvement in investing and business. Q: What do you look for in businesses you invest in? A: Mary focuses on female-led, tech-for-good, and early-stage companies with high growth potential where she can add value. Q: What advice do you have for new entrepreneurs? A: Define your values early and stick by them, while building a strong team from the start. Q: How do you approach diversity in investing? A: Mary advocates for more women in angel investing and stresses the importance of diversity in business. Q: What are the challenges female founders face in the investment space? A: Female founders receive only 2% of VC funding. Mary believes more female investors can help close this gap. Q: What are your thoughts on the future of entrepreneurship? A: Mary is optimistic about the future, particularly for women, but stresses the need for continued support and access to investment.…

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Episode 138: Gina Domanig - Emerald Tech Venture's Pioneering CVC Path: Venturing into Sustainability 40:31

1 year ago40:31

40:31

In this insightful conversation, Andrew Gaule (www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-6a7120), a seasoned corporate venturing expert, sits down with Gina Domanig (https://www.linkedin.com/in/gina-domanig/), the co-founder of Emerald Tech Ventures, a trailblazing venture capital firm dedicated to climate tech and industrial solutions. Emerald has been at the forefront of this space for nearly 25 years, investing in early-stage companies that are addressing sustainability challenges and driving innovation in sectors like energy, water, materials, and more. More details and outline below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw Gina shares the genesis of Emerald, born from her hypothesis that sustainability trends would profoundly impact industrial sectors, creating new opportunities and challenges. Today, with over $700 million in active funds and mandates, Emerald's unique model involves partnering with over 50 industrial corporations as limited partners, aligning their strategic interests with financial returns. The conversation delves into the intricate dynamics of corporate venturing, exploring the purpose, process, people, and performance metrics that shape this ecosystem. Gina offers invaluable insights into navigating the complexities of deal flow, due diligence, syndication, and the critical role of building strong relationships with partners, including other funds, research institutions, and investment banks. Here are 5 key topics from the podcast interview: Purpose and Strategic Objectives of Corporate Venturing Open innovation for corporates to find sustainability solutions Identify early adopters, partners, and potential acquisitions in sustainable tech Balance financial returns with strategic impacts Venture Fund Process and Deal Dynamics Long sales cycle to onboard corporate limited partners Deal sourcing from direct pitches, networks, and proactive scouting Thorough due diligence on technology, market, and value-add potential Co-investing and syndication with other funds and corporates People, Relationships, and Governance Importance of strong relationships with corporate business units Understanding fiduciary duties and potential liabilities as board members Preference for observer roles over full board seats Clear provisions for voting responsibilities and potential conflicts Ecosystem Collaboration and Partnerships Co-investing and syndicating deals with other funds Relationships with research institutions for early-stage deal flow Improving ties with investment banks for better exit planning Performance Measurement and Cultural Impact Focus on measurable impacts on core business, not just investment counts Metrics like commercial arrangements, pilots, acquisitions Internal communication and showcasing relevant startups Driving cultural change by exposing organization to external realities To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

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Episode 137: Peter Gostev of Moonpig - Navigating the AI Revolution 35:11

1 year ago35:11

35:11

"Navigating the AI Revolution" - In this insightful episode, Andrew Gaule (www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-6a7120) sits down with Peter Gostev (https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-gostev), the AI lead at Moon Pig, to discuss the profound impact of AI on businesses. Peter shares his experience and perspectives on leveraging AI for innovation, process redesign, and enhancing customer experiences in the retail sector. From overcoming implementation challenges to embracing continuous experimentation, this conversation offers valuable insights for organisations seeking to unlock the full potential of AI. Further details below. You join an AI Academy program see Aimava Eventbrite. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163 To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw Key Topics and Main Points: AI Impact on Businesses Expectations often outpace reality Need to redesign processes with AI in mind Potential for innovation and customer experience improvement AI Adoption Challenges Tacit knowledge required for effective implementation Precise process documentation needed Mindset shift: employees as AI model managers AI Potential and Limitations Continued improvement expected, but AGI still distant Struggles with nuanced domains like humor and local culture Excels at tasks infeasible for humans at scale Vendor Landscape and Partnerships Important vendor choices and partnerships Vendor lock-in may not be a significant issue Measuring AI Performance Traditional metrics like cost reduction apply Subjective domains challenging to measure Human evaluation may be required AI and Creativity Currently lags behind top human professionals Can generate numerous ideas at scale Process and People Changes Precise process documentation crucial Employees transition to AI model managers Data Management Data quality and availability remain important Potential to circumvent data issues with AI models Cultural Nuances AI struggles with local references and idioms Training on nuances is difficult Embracing AI Experiment and think beyond current limitations Imagine processes previously unfeasible Continuous learning and adaptation required To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

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Episode 136: Bill Liao insights from a Global Citizen's Approach to Purpose-Driven Investing and AI 22:29

1 year ago22:29

22:29

In this insightful interview, Andrew Gaule, (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava), talks with Bill Liao, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/billliao/ ) a global citizen, entrepreneur, and investor with an impressive portfolio. As a general partner at venture firm SOSV and Ki Tua Fund. Bill shares his thoughtful, purpose-driven approach to building successful, sustainable ventures. From emphasizing the importance of founder mindset and partnerships to leveraging emerging technologies like generative AI, Bill provides valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and investors alike. This interview offers a master class in aligning purpose, process, people, and performance metrics to drive meaningful change. Purpose to Performance: Innovative New Value Chain book by Andrew mentioned by Bill is available at https://amzn.eu/d/eiTlreV To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw Bill Liao has a nuanced perspective on the current wave of generative AI tools and technologies. He sees the significant advancements in the user interface and accessibility of these language models, noting that they allow the average person to easily harness powerful AI capabilities for a wide range of business tasks. Overall, Bill is excited about the potential for AI to enhance human abilities, but cautions entrepreneurs and investors to approach it pragmatically, diving in to learn and experiment, while maintaining a clear-eyed focus on building successful, impactful ventures. Bill's interests www.SOSV.com - opportunities in early tech ventures www.kituafund.com - backing health www.WeForest.org - environment www.sens.org - longevity www.CoderDojo.org - all kinds of awesome Here is a summary of the key points from the interview: Purpose Bill's overarching purpose is to create "a world that works for all living things, while civilization thrives" His core values driving this purpose are kindness, curiosity, and getting things done Process Bill is selective about the startups he engages with, looking for those who have done their research and built relationships with relevant investors He advises startups to connect with leaders of companies that have raised funding from target investors to get warm introductions People The founding team is the most important factor - they must be able to convince others to passionately follow them Startups need a balance of technical/scientific expertise and business/execution skills on the team Proper founder vesting agreements are critical to align incentives Partners Partnerships across the value chain are essential as no single company can do everything Examples include finding the right manufacturing, sales, and distribution partners Leveraging the network and expertise of investors as partners is also key Performance Measures Bill emphasizes the importance of tracking the right metrics, not just high-level financials For impact-oriented funds, he looks at concrete outcomes like CO2 equivalent avoided/sequestered Continuous monitoring of key operational metrics is critical for founders to effectively manage their business To book a meeting https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

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Episode 135: Joseph Orya, Peddle iLab. Empowering Education from an Inspiring Social Entrepreneur 15:19

1 year ago15:19

15:19

In a heartfelt interview with Andrew Gaule, (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava), Joseph Orya (https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-orya-3b8778179/ ), the co-founder and lead at Peddle Innovation Lab, shares his inspiring journey from a remote Nigerian village to becoming a social entrepreneur dedicated to transforming lives through education. Faced with poverty and the loss of his parents at a young age, Joseph's path to education was fraught with challenges. However, his personal experiences fueled his determination to provide underprivileged youth with access to quality education and digital skills. Andrew is a mentor for Joseph on the Just IMAGINE If social entrepreneur program by Paul Lindley at Uni of Reading. Orya's brainchild, Peddle Innovation Lab, develops portable, solar-powered mobile classrooms equipped with AI-enabled platforms, enabling learners in both grid and off-grid areas to access educational resources. Targeting children aged 6 to 18, the initiative offers lessons in literacy, mathematics, computer appreciation, and coding, bridging the digital divide and fostering lifelong learning opportunities. See Joseph's video for Just IMAGINE If at https://youtu.be/c_vYBb0IB_U?si=cGK4NAF3aEHpCK6U See details and topics below. To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? AI Programmes to build your AI and Business Skills. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163#events The context of tech and business change featured in Andrew's book "Purpose to Performance: Innovative New Value Chains" https://amzn.eu/d/6cK5C6Q and AI was discussed in this context. You can listen to this interview as a podcast on Gaule's Question Time on Apple, Spotify, Google and many other podcast channels. https://www.podomatic.com/podcasts/gaulesqt Subscribe for future interviews. See this and other video content at Aimava Purpose to Performance Channel - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV9o-htFNIk9Yt7jp2XcdWw Topics discussed. Joseph's background and inspiration behind Peddle Innovation Lab. Explanation of what Peddle Innovation Lab does and the services it provides. Details about the age range and subjects taught to the students. Locations and number of schools/camps where the program has been implemented. Impact on children's lives and the staggering number of out-of-school children in Nigeria. Scaling needs, including hardware, energy systems, and funding. Joseph's team and their combined experience. Financial ask and projected impact on the number of beneficiaries. Business model and revenue streams for sustainability. Joseph's inspiring message and call to action for others to create change. To book a meeting to discuss entrepreneurship, AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

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Episode 134: Chris Noring, Microsoft - AI and Business 30:41

1 year ago30:41

30:41

This interview between Andrew Gaule, (linkedin.com/in/andrew-gaule-aimava) and Chris Noring, (https://www.linkedin.com/in/christoffer-noring-3257061/) a Senior Cloud Advocate at Microsoft, covers how artificial intelligence is transforming businesses. See details and topics below. Chris's GenAI in Practice Newsletter https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/generative-ai-in-practice-7148117999957274624/ AI Programmes to build your AI and Business Skills. https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/aimava-global-advisory-firm-11938296163#events The context of tech and business change featured in Andrew's book "Purpose to Performance: Innovative New Value Chains" https://amzn.eu/d/6cK5C6Q and AI was discussed in this context. To book a meeting to discuss AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min? Chris Noring and Andrew Gaule discuss Microsoft's pivot towards being an AI-first company through investments in models like OpenAI. Noring shares how he sees businesses moving away from search engine optimization to instead optimizing for AI assistants. He predicts the need for AI coaches similar to agile coaches to help companies adopt AI. Noring and Gaule explore the role of partnerships in AI adoption. They also debate approaches for measuring ROI and strategic value of AI investments. Overall, they are excited by the potential for AI to free up human time for more creative, strategic work. However, they emphasize that successful implementation requires change management and clear communication between technology partners and business stakeholders. Leveraging AI to Transform Your Business Purpose: The core purpose for businesses adopting AI should be to integrate it in a way that augments human capabilities and transforms business models, rather than solely focusing on cost savings. AI can elevate human productivity and creativity. Companies should find opportunities for leveraging AI across all products and data sources. Process: The process for implementing AI requires starting with small experiments on discrete use cases where impact can be measured, before scaling across the organization. Hands-on workshops can show employees AI’s value and help them become comfortable interacting with systems using natural language prompts. Starting with no-code solutions allows for rapid prototyping. People: A key requirement for successfully leveraging AI is change management and upskilling employees to effectively utilize these new tools. “AI coaches” will be crucial to help workers adapt, much as “agile coaches” emerged. Enhanced communication skills and clarity when providing prompts and requirements will drive optimal AI output. Partners: AI adoption requires both business and technology partners. Communication partners can translate business needs while technical partners handle solution implementation. Look for partners with domain expertise in your industry who also understand core barriers to organizational change management. Vet partners thoroughly regarding data privacy and security. Performance Measures: The ROI of AI investments can be measured based on time savings and bottom line business performance where applicable. In some cases, AI competency is a strategic imperative for competitiveness. Set goals and KPIs early about what business objectives AI solutions will achieve. Continually assess how worker time is freed up to focus on more creative, strategic initiatives after AI automation. With the right vision and preparation, AI technology offers enormous potential to transform businesses by enhancing human productivity and innovation. Following the strategies around purpose, process, people, partners and performance measurement outlined above will set your organization up for success. To book a meeting to discuss AI and other business change with Andrew - https://calendly.com/andrew-gaule/30min?…

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Episode 133: Nigel Toon, Graphcore - How AI Thinks 30:47

1 year ago30:47