In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Auws Al-Gaboury, Creative Strategist and founder of Hyper Film, to unpack what it really takes to build a successful creative business in todayâs fast-changing industry.
Auws shares his journey through video production and advertising â from early setbacks and emotional lows to landing major global clients like Nike, Adidas, and the BBC. He breaks down why trust, in-person relationships, and genuine human connection still matter more than algorithms, even in an AI-driven world.
We dive into the realities of entrepreneurship, the myths around overnight success, and why most people arenât cut out for business ownership. Auws also explains how advertising is evolving, why content and founder-led marketing are winning, and how creatives can build authority through authentic personal branding.
This conversation is packed with practical advice for filmmakers, creatives, founders, and anyone navigating a competitive market â covering resilience, adaptability, mentorship, and staying relevant without losing yourself.
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Amos Eretusi, founder of The Kusp, a UK-based social enterprise dedicated to improving access for underrepresented talent across the creative industries â including film, TV, fashion, media, and beyond.
Amos shares his powerful journey from studying civil engineering to becoming a driving force for change in the creative sector. He opens up about the barriers minority creatives face, the importance of authentic networks, and his personal experiences navigating corporate spaces where representation was lacking.
We explore his mission to build real opportunities â not just token gestures â through The Kuspâs community, events, and his newly launched platform The Kusp Hub, designed to transform creative hiring through education, fair recruitment, and accessible training.
This episode dives deep into themes of purpose, resilience, identity, and the value of impact over material success. Whether youâre a creative, an industry professional, or someone passionate about empowerment and representation, this conversation will inspire you to think differently about the future of the creative world.
(00:00) Authentic networking & helping others
(00:35) Introducing Amos Eretusi
(00:57) Nigerian roots & upbringing
(02:07) The Kuspâs mission
(02:54) From engineering to creative empowerment
(03:53) Industry barriers & challenges
(04:45) The Kuspâs unique approach
(05:42) Introversion in creative spaces
(05:55) Meaning of âThe Kuspâ
(06:47) Feeling like a âbox-tickerâ
(08:07) Entrepreneurship doubts & resilience
(09:23) Building strong relationships
(10:32) Sky Arts success story
(13:20) Why representation is slow
(15:42) Diversity behind the camera
(17:08) Performative diversity post-George Floyd
(18:24) Racism & backsliding
(19:38) Being labelled performative
(21:39) What makes a great connector
(22:26) Advice for underrepresented talent
(24:17) Fighting the urge to quit
(24:53) Rapid fire
(26:11) Mission over materialism
(27:25) Money, values & contentment
(29:00) Introducing The Kusp Hub
(31:59) Accessible training & social impact
(33:34) Favourite drinks
(33:54) How to support The Kusp
(35:22) Hobbies & interests
(36:02) Advice he regrets not taking
(37:01) Closing thoughts
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit with Zane Thadani â actor, comedian, and creator known for his viral Instagram and TikTok sketches that have taken the UK South Asian community by storm.
Zane opens up about the real journey behind virality: the emotional rush of going viral, the mental crash of creative slumps, and the pressure of constantly needing to âhitâ again. He shares the story of dancing to âChaiyya Chaiyyaâ on the London tube, how that moment helped him overcome social anxiety, and why embarrassment became his greatest tool for confidence.
We dive deep into mental health, consistency, originality, hate comments, family reactions, networking, confidence, acting, filmmaking, and why creators often lose themselves while chasing virality. Zane also reflects on cultural identity, British-Indian representation, and his ambitions beyond short-form content.
If youâre a creator â or just fascinated by the psychology behind fame â this conversation is honest, funny, and packed with practical insights from someone who has lived the highs and lows of modern content creation.
(00:00) First viral moment & early nerves
(00:31) Intro to Zane Thadani
(01:23) Recognition in the South Asian community
(01:44) How his viral journey started
(02:44) The emotional high of virality
(03:52) How creators make money
(04:35) Creative slumps & mental health
(05:29) Why Zane creates
(06:10) Tube dance changed everything
(07:42) Embarrassment â confidence
(08:30) Tips for going viral today
(10:08) Gen Z attention spans
(10:32) Originality vs adaptation
(11:20) Hate comments & family responses
(12:18) Ambition & identity
(12:55) Networking & privilege
(14:47) Insecurity & reinvention
(17:25) Advice for new creators
(18:30) Consistency vs quality
(19:21) Rapid fire
(21:17) Misconceptions about content creation
(21:57) Emotional rollercoaster of engagement
(22:24) Perks of fame
(22:57) Filmmaking journey
(23:47) Film school vs doing
(24:23) Favourite films
(26:17) Theatre experiences
(28:34) Acting inspirations
(29:27) Acting vs content
(30:19) Family feedback
(31:13) Advice to younger self
(32:05) Authenticity vs persona
(32:35) Cultural identity
(33:09) Expanding beyond niche
(34:16) Dream brand collabs
(35:14) Networking superpower
(36:39) Connecting with Zane
(37:20) Final advice: consistency
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Jessica Lindfieldâentrepreneur, author of Play the Game, and founder of the womenâs community Embrace Her.
Jess shares her journey from working in insurance in Australia to moving across the world and restarting her career in the UK. Today, she leads commercial enablement at the Financial Times, builds ambitious teams, and supports women through her book and her community platform.
We talk about confidence, rejection, leadership, burnout, career reinvention, and building your own opportunities rather than waiting for them. Jess breaks down the practical lessons behind Play the Game, discusses the DEAR Method, and opens up about the realities of finding your voice in male-dominated spaces.
Whether youâre navigating career transitions, building confidence, or redefining your professional identity, this episode is packed with actionable insights and honest reflections.
(00:00) Jessâs early career & being reserved
(00:33) Intro to Jess & her journey
(01:42) Inspiration behind Play the Game
(02:01) Moving from Australia to the UK
(02:55) Building Embrace Her
(03:57) Why a book, not just social media
(04:54) How the book is structured
(05:24) Rejection, resilience & persistence
(07:14) Landing her first management role
(10:04) The DEAR Method
(11:07) Career strategy & the chess metaphor
(12:03) Her path to the Financial Times
(14:34) What FTâs culture is really like
(16:16) Community feedback & womenâs challenges
(17:54) Building confidence through action
(20:50) Reinventing yourself abroad
(22:45) Leadership & revenue growth
(24:33) What makes a good leader
(29:10) Burnout & healthy boundaries
(32:03) Jessâs morning routine
(33:01) Supporting high-performing teams
(34:18) Coffee order + connecting with Jess
(36:35) Consistency over perfection â final advice
Our first ever LIVE Kasa Connect episode!
Recorded at Kasa CafĂŠ London, we hosted a special fireside chat and audience Q&A with Amardeep Parmar â founder of Bae HQ, host of one of the UKâs largest entrepreneurial communities, and author of the newly released book Startups For Outsiders.
In this live conversation, Amardeep shares:
⢠how âoutsidersâ â people without industry connections, wealth, or a traditional background â can still break into entrepreneurship
⢠the mindset shifts required to stand out in competitive industries
⢠real lessons from building Bae HQ and supporting thousands of founders
⢠honest reflections on purpose, confidence, imposter syndrome, and building community
⢠tactical advice for validation, networking, and taking your first steps as a founder
The episode finishes with an open audience Q&A, where attendees ask Amardeep raw, unfiltered questions about startups, fundraising, creativity, and navigating the early days of your founder journey.
From PwC to AI entrepreneurship â Benjamin Ogheneâs story is one of resilience, innovation, and purpose.
In this episode of Kasa Connect, Benjamin Oghene, Chief Executive of The Cozm, shares how a life-altering experience led him to build an AI company focused on reducing bias in global workforce deployment.
Benjamin opens up about his transition from corporate consulting to entrepreneurship, the mission behind The Cozm, and how his team is using data and automation to make talent mobility fairer and more efficient.
He also discusses AI ethics, diversity, and the changing future of work, offering practical lessons for founders, business leaders, and anyone interested in building technology with integrity and impact.
(00:00) Mistaken arrest sparks reflection on bias
(00:23) From PwC to launching The Cozm
(00:56) How a personal experience inspired an AI startup
(02:17) AI in recruitment & promoting diversity
(03:11) The Cozmâs mission to reduce global bias
(04:34) Founder challenges & daily discipline
(05:20) Redefining success beyond profit
(06:51) Automating admin work for better efficiency
(08:06) Early struggles with credibility
(08:54) Why âThe Cozmâ and what it represents
(09:18) Creativity, shower pad ideas & first principles
(11:21) The OptimismâDeterminism Grid
(15:10) Early supporters & building belief
(16:10) Diversityâs role in preventing AI bias
(17:06) AI risks, regulation & awareness
(19:34) Company culture at The Cozm
(21:05) Focus vs curiosity in innovation
(22:57) Dopamine & distraction in modern learning
(25:20) Trends in global mobility & remote work
(26:55) Success story: Cisco & the Paris Olympics
(28:28) Convincing enterprises to adopt automation
(29:01) Favourite drinks & connecting with The Cozm
(29:54) The co-founder lesson
(30:30) Final thoughts & advice for listeners
In this special episode, the tables turn as Itâs Preeti Personal host Preeti interviews Krishana Agarwal, founder of Kasa CafĂŠ & Kasa Connect, about her powerful journey from corporate burnout to entrepreneurship.
Krishana opens up about the emotional and practical realities of leaving a stable job, navigating loneliness, and learning to trust herself while building Kasa â a cafĂŠ and community hub in Fitzrovia, London, designed to bring together founders, creatives, and dreamers.
They discuss manifestation, representation, and the importance of creating spaces where people feel seen and supported. From almost selling the cafĂŠ to turning it into a thriving creative hub, this conversation explores what it really takes to build something meaningful from the ground up.
(00:00) Burnout & leaving corporate life
(00:33) Preeti introduces Itâs Preeti Personal
(01:47) Shared experiences & South Asian representation
(02:20) Dreams of opening a cafĂŠ
(02:45) Krishanaâs corporate path & Covid impact
(04:24) Manifestation & journaling her new vision
(06:13) Studying entrepreneurship at Imperial College
(07:58) Finding & transforming the Kasa CafĂŠ location
(09:10) Family influence & early plans in India
(11:15) Barista training, licensing & renovations
(13:20) Team building & leadership lessons
(15:35) Gaining confidence as a solo founder
(17:04) The loneliness of entrepreneurship
(18:23) Early struggles & doubts post-launch
(20:31) Competition & emotional resilience
(22:58) Nearly selling the cafĂŠ
(24:34) Breakthrough: the event that changed everything
(25:15) Manifestation realised through Kasa events
(27:13) Community power & loyal customers
(28:27) Collaboration over competition
(29:43) Overcoming shyness & building confidence
(31:52) Creating Kasa Connect
(33:49) Growing the podcast into a platform
(34:10) Advice to her younger self
(36:14) Separating identity from business
(37:37) Building a home away from home
(38:03) Gratitude & closing thoughts
From Mumbaiâs slums to managing $50M ad campaigns at Google â Danish Bagadiaâs story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless growth.
In this episode of Kasa Connect, Danish shares his remarkable journey from humble beginnings in Mumbai to becoming a senior marketing executive at Google. He opens up about the companyâs culture, the meaning of âGoogliness,â and how data-driven decision-making shaped his leadership style.
Now based in Dubai as the founder of Sooper Labs, Danish helps businesses and professionals harness AI to scale and adapt in the digital era.
This episode dives into lessons on risk-taking, overcoming fear, transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship, and embracing the future of AI â all while staying true to your passions and values.
(00:00) Growing up in Mumbai & Journey to Google
(01:08) First Impressions of Googleâs Culture
(03:20) Managing $50 Million in Ad Spend
(04:59) What âGooglinessâ Really Means
(08:29) Risk-Taking & Lessons from the Hiring Process
(09:33) Inside Googleâs Leadership and Feedback Culture
(13:17) Handling Failure and Turning It Into Growth
(16:09) Making Family Proud: His Biggest Achievements
(18:01) Why He Left Google & Moved to Dubai
(20:35) Starting Over as an Entrepreneur
(22:04) AI Consulting & Promoting AI Literacy
(22:55) Why Danish Chose to Focus on AI
(23:54) The Irreplaceable Power of Human Imagination
(24:42) How to Use AI Effectively (Like an Intern)
(27:37) Favourite AI Tools & Building a Personal Stack
(29:12) Redefining Work-Life Balance After Corporate
(31:33) Coffee Chat & Personal Connections
(32:54) POP: Passion, Optimism, Perseverance
(34:00) Closing Thoughts & Key Takeaways
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Asti Wagner, CEO & Founder of Invyted đ and RMI 30 Under 30.
Asti shares her journey from being a food influencer at university to launching a tech startup thatâs making influencer marketing simple, authentic, and scalable.
We cover:
The origins of Invyted and how a frustration as a creator sparked the idea.
How she scaled from early influencer sign-ups to brand partnerships.
Lessons in fundraising, team growth, and expanding into New York.
The future of influencer marketing, from authentic content to AI-powered creation.
Astiâs honest take on burnout, standing out as a founder, and why backing yourself matters.
In this episode, Tegan Broomfield, founder of Evntful, joins Kasa Connect to talk about her mission to make dating safer, more meaningful, and genuinely enjoyable. After leaving her corporate career at PwC, Tegan founded Eventful â a new kind of dating app that focuses on real-life experiences rather than endless swiping and shallow conversations.
She opens up about her personal motivation for building Eventful, the challenges of being a female founder, and how the appâs safety features and community focus are reshaping modern dating culture.
We also discuss Gen Zâs loneliness epidemic, fundraising hurdles, and the power of shared experiences in creating authentic connections.
If youâve ever felt burnt out by dating apps, this episode might just change your mind about what dating could look like.
(00:00) Dating App Frustrations & Safety Concerns
(01:03) Introducing Eventful: A New Approach to Dating
(01:42) How Eventful Differs from Other Apps
(02:22) The Decline of Real-Life Boldness
(02:58) How Dating Apps Profit from Keeping You Online
(04:01) What Inspired Tegan to Build Eventful
(04:32) Safety Features That Set Eventful Apart
(05:50) Partnering with Venues for Safety & Perks
(07:43) From PwC to Startup Founder
(08:41) Lessons Learned as a First-Time Founder
(09:40) How Eventful Matches People by Interests
(11:09) Dating App Stats & Gender Dynamics
(12:59) Reframing Dating Expectations
(13:56) Red Flag or Green Flag Game
(14:45) Early User Feedback & Event Highlights
(15:47) Media Exposure & Changing Dating Habits
(17:13) Why Activity-Based Dates Work Better
(18:17) Balancing Fun & Authenticity in Dating
(20:02) Fundraising & Challenges for Female Founders
(21:17) Building a Community Around Shared Interests
(22:27) Upcoming Features & Profile Sharing
(23:17) Making Dating Safe, Pressure-Free & Fun
(25:00) Finding Advisors & Networking for Growth
(26:47) Loneliness, Gen Z & Real Connection
(28:50) Expansion Plans & Listening to Feedback
(30:02) Coffee Preferences & Life Advice
(31:23) Slowing Down, Creativity & Final Thoughts
Can AI empower people instead of replacing them?
In this episode, Mahdi Shariff â Co-founder of Humble AI and Forbes 30 Under 30 honouree â joins Kasa Connect to discuss how artificial intelligence can be made accessible, ethical, and truly human-centred. Mahdi shares his journey from corporate consulting to launching a startup that helps anyone â even without technical skills â build their own AI tools.
He opens up about:
Real examples of AI transforming education and business
Lessons from launching startups across Asia and Europe
The ethics and environmental impact of AI
Why rest, empathy, and generosity matter as much as code
Whether youâre a student, founder, or future innovator â this episode will reshape how you see AIâs role in creativity and collaboration.
(00:00) Introduction to AI Beyond ChatGPT
(00:37) Meet Mahdi Shariff: Founder of Humble AI
(01:00) Explaining Humble AI Using Lego
(01:27) Case Study: AI in Education
(02:12) AI in Venture Capital and Business
(02:32) Mahdiâs Journey into AI
(03:31) Startup Challenges and Market Timing
(04:26) Mahdiâs Daily AI Tools
(04:42) The Ethics of AI Misuse
(06:10) When AI Replaces Real Human Interaction
(07:22) Using AI as a Creative Medium
(08:28) Teaching AI at University
(09:09) How Mahdi Got Involved in Education
(10:10) Can AI Hurt Critical Thinking?
(10:44) Learning AI and Understanding Its Limits
(12:22) Common AI Myths
(14:00) Advice for Founders Using AI
(15:32) The Meaning Behind âHumble AIâ
(17:43) Lessons from a Failed Startup
(19:01) Why the Market Wasnât Ready
(20:31) Book & Podcast Recommendations
(22:02) Obsessive Work Habits and Growth
(23:13) Exciting New Projects at Humble AI
(24:30) The Process of Building AI Tools
(27:25) Reducing AIâs Environmental Impact
(29:46) Advice for Students and Professionals
(32:26) Tools for Learning AI
(33:00) Democratising AI Knowledge
(33:42) The Power of Connection and Giving Back
(35:54) How to Connect with Mahdi
(36:39) Coffee or Juice? Mahdiâs Preferences
(37:11) The Best Advice Mahdi Ignored
(38:41) Episode Wrap-Up
Relationship and divorce coach Natasha joins Kasa Connect to share her journey and professional insights on love, dating, and modern relationships. She opens up about her own divorce, the stigma surrounding it, and how she turned her experience into a mission to help others build healthier connections.
We dive into tough topicsâfrom dating apps, prenups, and conflict to balancing feminine and masculine energy, navigating cultural pressures, and why money conversations are non-negotiable before marriage.
Whether youâre single, dating, or married, Natashaâs unfiltered advice will challenge the way you think about love and inspire you to build stronger, more intentional relationships.
(00:00) Introduction and Natashaâs story
(01:07) How Natasha became a relationship coach
(03:05) Dating apps, self-sabotage & âthe ickâ
(06:21) Judgment on apps vs meeting people organically
(07:39) Manifestation & intentional dating
(09:59) Why couples should seek professional support
(11:19) Relationship trends: then vs now
(13:29) Top issues that break relationships: money, sex, conflict
(15:01) How to have difficult conversations before marriage
(17:31) Divorce stigma & compassion in coaching
(19:04) Solo parenting & Natashaâs biggest personal challenge
(20:29) Vulnerability & breaking the stigma of divorce
(22:15) Dating after divorce & being unapologetic
(24:36) Prenups & relationship âinsuranceâ
(27:19) Monogamy as a social construct
(30:09) Polyamory, throuples & modern love models
(31:42) Red flags, instant gratification & social media impact
(35:09) Who should pay on the first date?
(39:13) Feminine vs masculine energy in business & love
(40:08) How to connect with Natasha
(41:03) Coffee, culture & personal quirks
(41:44) Natashaâs best advice: start investing
(43:02) Closing thoughts & wrap-up
We sit down with Kiara Rao, the 22-year-old co-founder of Trove Jewelry. What started as a pandemic hobby inspired by her grandmother has grown into a thriving brand with collaborations from ASOS and Nike.
Kiara opens up about balancing university, internships, and running a business, while sharing the real challenges of burnout, time management, and staying authentic. From nearly giving up to receiving the game-changing ASOS email, Kiaraâs story is a raw and inspiring look at what it really takes to build a creative, community-driven brand.
Whether youâre a student, aspiring entrepreneur, or simply curious about how small ideas can turn into big opportunities, this conversation will give you both inspiration and actionable takeaways.
(00:00) Big Brand Breakthroughs: Landing ASOS & Nike
(00:35) Introduction & guest overview
(01:02) First workshop at Casa CafĂŠ
(02:07) Starting jewelry making during COVID
(03:00) Troveâs evolving business model
(04:02) From workshops to brand collaborations
(05:05) How the ASOS & Nike deals happened
(06:08) Pricing & valuing their work
(07:08) Building a mission-driven brand
(07:51) Meeting co-founder Amber
(09:43) Balancing co-founder roles
(10:39) Time management challenges
(11:06) A day in Kiaraâs life
(11:48) Burnout & support systems
(12:34) The ASOS turning point
(14:19) Troveâs future plans
(15:26) Volunteering in Nepal
(16:36) Engineering studies meet jewelry making
(17:16) Facing age bias as a founder
(18:24) Staying authentic in business
(19:08) Balancing university & Trove
(20:25) Identity tied to business
(21:13) Building a brand beyond the founders
(22:13) Lessons from a VC internship
(22:59) The meaning of âTroveâ
(24:00) Building community online & offline
(25:52) Social media & mental health
(27:08) Sticking to brand values
(27:45) Community-driven product ideas
(28:28) Keeping products accessible
(29:02) Connecting with Trove
(29:47) Favorite drink & best advice
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Joe Seddon, founder & CEO of Zero Gravity. From a single-parent household in West Yorkshire to studying at Oxford University, Joe shares how he turned ÂŁ200 of his student loan into a mission-driven tech startup that has supported over 15,000 students and deployed ÂŁ2.3M in scholarships.
Joe opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome, self-teaching coding, and building Zero Gravity from his bedroom into a company backed by ÂŁ6.5M in investment. We dive into the challenges of fundraising, leadership, and scaling a startup while staying true to your values.
If youâre passionate about entrepreneurship, education, or social mobility, Joeâs story is packed with practical advice and inspiration.
(00:00) The impact of Zero Gravity & Joeâs motivation
(00:38) Joeâs background: West Yorkshire to Oxford
(00:59) How Joe got into Oxford & GCSE turning point
(03:10) Choosing PPE & battling imposter syndrome
(05:11) Founding Zero Gravity: the idea spark
(08:10) Teaching himself to code & building MVP
(09:20) Bootstrapping with ÂŁ200 & early traction
(11:16) Finding first users & growth hacking
(13:42) Key insights: confidence & community
(15:11) Biggest challenges & PR breakthrough
(18:08) Leadership lessons & company culture
(20:52) Personal motivation & redefining success
(22:59) Metrics that matter: acquisition & retention
(26:06) Real impact stories from Zero Gravity students
(27:09) Social mobility & systemic change
(28:43) Oxfordâs influence & elite networks
(32:00) Quickfire: coffee habits & northern roots
(32:34) Connecting with Joe & giving back
(33:40) The first investor who believed in Joe
(34:46) Advice regrets & leadership lessons
(36:28) Closing thoughts & thank you
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Erika Tamayo, co-founder and CEO of Hermosa Protein, the brand powering Barryâs Bootcamp and fitness studios across the UK.
From selling hot dogs in Colombia to creating one of the most trusted protein brands in wellness, Erika shares her remarkable journey of resilience, family, and entrepreneurship. She opens up about overcoming adversity, launching Hermosa with her husband, and building a brand rooted in storytelling, values, and authenticity.
We dive into the realities of fundraising, scaling in the competitive protein market, and balancing motherhood with business growth. If youâve ever wondered what it takes to turn setbacks into strength and build a brand with heart, this episode is for you.
(00:00) Erikaâs early struggles and mindset
(00:39) Podcast introduction & guest welcome
(01:17) How Erika and the host first met
(01:57) Erikaâs entrepreneurial childhood in Colombia
(04:36) School life & early initiatives
(05:43) Transition to adulthood & business mindset
(06:04) Marketing at Barryâs UK & motherhood balance
(06:35) Becoming a full-time mom & launching Hermosa
(08:21) Hermosaâs growth & UK expansion
(08:53) What makes Hermosa unique
(09:25) Protein intake explained & nutrition advice
(11:40) Product design philosophy
(12:29) Biggest challenges in the protein industry
(13:35) Vision & future plans for Hermosa
(14:40) Erikaâs fitness journey
(15:07) Working with her husband Sandy
(17:17) Personal growth & relationships
(20:22) The âmeet cuteâ story with Sandy
(33:49) Advice for her son & aspiring entrepreneurs
(34:54) Planning vs. impulsiveness in business
(35:24) Maintaining a positive mindset
(36:32) Hermosaâs international expansion
(37:04) Product vs. founder story in marketing
(39:12) Raising investment & funding lessons
(41:05) Resilience & achievements at Barryâs
(43:24) Confidence, imposter syndrome & storytelling
(45:39) Coffee preferences & Hermosa Frappuccinos
(46:23) Life philosophy & advice she regrets not taking
(48:06) Happiness, smiling & wellbeing
(49:58) How to connect with Erika
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Chris Crocker, founder of GOOD KOFFEE, a sparkling coffee brand bringing âfeel good energyâ to creators, performers, and entrepreneurs.
Chris shares his incredible journey from dancing on cruise ships and performing in The Lion King to launching one of the most innovative drinks on the market. Inspired by his travels in Vietnam, Chris turned his idea into reality, overcoming setbacks and building a mission-driven brand.
We talk about resilience, risk-taking, community, and why authenticity matters in both life and business. Whether youâre an entrepreneur, a creative, or just love coffee, this episode will leave you energised and inspired.
(00:00) Chrisâs early life and adoption
(00:23) Welcome & intro to GOOD KOFFEE
(00:55) Tasting GOOD KOFFEE & branding inspiration
(02:41) Dance training & cruise ship performing
(04:29) Bollywood musical & cultural exposure
(05:24) Travel, identity & global influences
(06:41) Origin of GOOD KOFFEE in Vietnam
(08:26) Early product experiments & farmers market
(10:25) Business challenges & early growth
(11:18) Vision for GOOD KOFFEE globally
(12:20) Mission, collaborations & Lion King backstage
(15:19) Purpose, community & entrepreneurship
(17:32) Consumer education & market reception
(19:01) Stockists & London expansion
(19:53) Solo founder experience & building support
(20:33) Funding needs & export plans
(21:35) Risk-taking, instincts & emotions in business
(22:09) Setbacks, achievements & goal setting
(23:27) Chrisâs personal coffee habits
(24:16) Advice & staying true to convictions
(25:22) Martial arts, yoga & âfeel good energyâ series
(26:41) Community, authenticity & outsider feelings
(27:21) Resilience & overcoming challenges
(28:14) How to connect with Chris & GOOD KOFFEE
(29:07) Closing & thanks
Nathaly Ortegaâs journey is one of resilience, vision, and relentless ambition. From facing a traumatic childhood in South America to building a new life and career in Europe, Nathaly has carved her own path as an architect, model, masterâs student, and founder of Founders Club London.
In this episode of Kasa Connect, she opens up about overcoming dyslexia, balancing multiple passions, and creating a supportive community for entrepreneurs. Nathaly shares insights on resilience, visualization, work-life balance, and the importance of building authentic networks.
Whether youâre an aspiring founder, a student juggling big dreams, or someone seeking inspiration to push through setbacks, Nathalyâs story will give you the tools and motivation to keep moving forward.
(00:00) Nathalyâs family tragedy & childhood challenges
(00:26) Introduction & Nathalyâs journey overview
(01:00) Moving to Europe & her motherâs reinvention
(02:46) Overcoming dyslexia & building perseverance
(05:00) Architecture ambitions & career purpose
(05:38) Launching Founders Club London
(06:29) The founder mindset & struggles
(07:26) Bikini modeling & lessons in discipline
(08:31) Masterâs studies, Saudi projects & big ambitions
(09:27) Burnout, relationships & balance in life
(11:15) A day in Nathalyâs life
(12:53) Growing Founders Club community
(15:39) Work-life balance & prioritisation
(17:21) Family as a priority & future vision
(18:27) Biggest challenge: finding focus & goals
(20:36) Women in male-dominated spaces
(22:14) Confidence & self-belief
(23:11) Vision boards & manifestation
(26:15) Focus, meditation & productivity habits
(28:29) The value of range & multiple interests
(29:47) Advice for aspiring founders
(30:56) Overcoming financial barriers
(32:00) Coffee talk & Founders Club invitation
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Jamie, a horror filmmaker who left a finance career to pursue his passion for storytelling. Jamie opens up about the sacrifices required to succeed in film, from funding projects independently to battling rejection from distributors.
He shares insights on writing and producing horror, the realities of getting features distributed, and why persistence is the most powerful tool for any filmmaker. Jamie also reveals his creative process, his fears, and the entrepreneurial mindset it takes to survive in such a competitive industry.
If youâve ever wondered what it really takes to make it in film, this conversation is packed with lessons on storytelling, networking, and pushing through setbacks.
(00:00) Initial Film Distribution Challenges
(00:33) Introduction & Jamieâs Background
(01:02) Passion for Storytelling
(01:44) Sacrifices for Filmmaking
(02:52) Short Films vs. Feature Films
(03:29) Making Money in Film
(04:31) First Feature Film & Distribution
(05:29) Writing and Producing Process
(06:32) Starting in the Horror Genre
(07:27) Favourite Actors & Inspirations
(07:49) Plot of âIsabelleâ
(08:05) Supernatural Writing Experiences
(10:51) Co-writing and Loss
(12:15) Current Stage of âIsabelleâ
(13:13) Transferable Skills from Finance
(13:58) Motivation and Flow State
(14:34) Biggest Fears in Filmmaking
(15:37) Relationship with Horror Genre
(16:13) Future Projects & Genre Expansion
(16:52) Advice for Aspiring Filmmakers
(17:46) Regrets and Lessons Learned
(18:17) Rapid-Fire Questions: Film Preferences
(19:51) Animation and Guilty Pleasures
(20:50) Dream Collaborations & Adaptations
(21:40) Film Festival Experiences
(23:51) Networking and Follow-Up
(24:11) Persistence and Rejection in Film
(25:30) Risk-Taking and Entrepreneurial Moves
(26:45) Closing & Contact Information
We sit down with Dr. Aanya Hirdaramani, a scientist, nutritionist, and founder of The Nourish Method. With a PhD in Molecular Endocrinology from Imperial College London, Aanya breaks down the science behind weight loss drugs like GLP-1, busts popular nutrition myths, and shares how evidence-based, personalised nutrition can truly transform your health.
We cover everything from sugar addiction to realistic meal planning, the importance of sleep, and the truth about âhealthyâ foods. Aanya also opens up about her own wellness journey, the sacrifices of doing a PhD, and her dream of starting a biotech company.
If youâve ever been confused by conflicting health advice, this episode will give you the clarity and tools you need to approach nutrition and wellness with confidence.
(00:00) The dangers & promise of weight loss drugs
(00:59) Dr. Aanyaâs PhD & GLP-1 research explained
(02:37) Side effects & misuse of weight loss drugs
(05:02) Why Dr. Aanya chose molecular nutrition
(06:25) PhD challenges & personal growth
(07:46) Launching The Nourish Method consultancy
(08:36) Evidence-based nutrition vs. intuition
(09:56) Integrating fitness & nutrition
(11:03) Building community through fitness
(12:01) Productivity, sacrifice & sleep habits
(14:17) Meal planning & flexible eating
(15:07) Coping with imperfection & self-compassion
(16:18) Returning to research & future goals
(18:02) Toxic trends, myths & social media influence
(19:40) Recommended nutrition influencers
(20:02) Rapid fire: carbs, fasting & supplements
(23:20) Hidden sugars & âhealthyâ food myths
(25:22) A day in Dr. Aanyaâs eating routine
(29:03) Protein bars & sweeteners
(31:09) Fitting in fitness with a busy life
(34:31) How to connect with Dr. Aanya
(35:34) Career advice & planning your next steps
How do you turn nostalgia into a modern startup?
In this episode of Kasa Connect, we sit down with Jordan Abrahams â Head of Growth, marketing veteran, and co-founder of Neat Sweets, a low-sugar candy brand with a cult following.
Jordan shares how he went from corporate FMCG to fintech and then into sweets â breaking down viral TikTok moments, lessons from failed startups, and what it really takes to lead growth at a unicorn company.
Whether youâre a founder, marketer, or dreamer, youâll get practical insights into building a brand, going viral, choosing the right co-founders, and keeping your sanity while juggling multiple ventures.
00:00 â The Viral TikTok Hook & Unicorn Startup
00:55 â Introducing Neat Sweets
01:17 â Entrepreneurial Beginnings
01:48 â Lessons from E-commerce Failures
02:32 â Transition to Fintech
02:57 â Viral Marketing in Fintech
04:36 â Managing at a Unicorn
04:54 â Delegation & Leadership Skills
05:15 â Neat Sweets Product Development
06:05 â Co-founder Dynamics & Decision Making
06:26 â Competitive Landscape
07:13 â Flavor Innovation & Team Pitches
07:37 â Brand Personality & Dream Collaborations
08:04 â Go-to Snacks & Cultural Favorites
08:22 â Founder Myths & Realities
09:05 â Motivation & Family Influence
10:03 â Dealing with Overcommitment
10:48 â Passion for Marketing & Blurred Roles
11:11 â Consumer Goods Marketing Tips
12:28 â Neat Sweetsâ Future Vision
13:29 â Omnichannel Strategy & Brand Building
14:06 â Founder-Led Marketing Debate
15:04 â Viral Buckingham Palace TikTok
15:43 â Marketing Failures & Lessons
16:02 â Planned vs. Authentic Content
16:53 â Startup vs. Unicorn Marketing
17:47 â Landing a Unicorn Role
18:55 â Personal Branding & Networking
20:31 â Working on Multiple Projects
22:40 â Work-Life Balance & Passion
24:14 â Solo vs. Team Entrepreneurship
25:32 â Choosing Co-founders & Team Dynamics
26:52 â Essential Co-founder Qualities
27:54 â Favourite CafĂŠ Drink
28:25 â Connecting with Listeners
29:13 â Best Advice Not Taken