This week on Mic Drop, Ben and Ed swap stories from the battlefield of daily life — from mechanical meltdowns to podcasting mishaps.
They open up about the impact of charity initiatives, specifically the shoebox campaign bringing smiles to children who need it most.
The conversation drifts through waves of nostalgia, revisiting old nightclub memories and the weird tricks that age plays on the mind.
Music soon takes over as the duo debates songwriting simplicity, the emotive power of vocals, and the fact that you can basically write any rock song with four chords if you believe in it hard enough.
With humour, warmth, and just a touch of chaos, this episode reminds us that sometimes the best moments happen between the lines — in the pauses, the laughter, and the unscripted surprises.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ed - Black Tears by Imelda May:
https://open.spotify.com/track/29BQ4ugLAaXIqqu8f1gNUj?si=cabddd2b1b9b4619
Ben - Wondering Why by The Red Clay Strays:
https://open.spotify.com/track/1HbzxLqpNVPdiBXvpC7Ovb?si=2a7c6f78aa544a6a
Ben's Links:
Teams4uhttps://teams4u.com/
Natalia Shvarts -
4 Chords
In this episode of Mic Drop, Ed Purnell and Ben Brookes wade into the wild world of ticket reselling, music history, and Trademark Branding — because where else would you get that combo?
From the chaos of dynamic pricing to the soulful influence of blues on modern music, the pair explore how culture, business, and creativity constantly collide. They dive into why authentic branding matters, how music genres blend into something new, and why legislators are finally cracking down on resellers who ruin the fun for real fans.
Packed with humour, personal stories, and a few unexpectedly profound moments, this episode proves that whether it’s concerts, franchises, or the blues… everything is better when you keep it real.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ben - Fear by NF
https://open.spotify.com/track/3HfKlhohNNTLIv2t9uvmzz?si=60fabad6f819401a
Ed - Hide Away by Freddie King
https://open.spotify.com/track/2bV2rAslNR4CjjG8CuEQhZ?si=baf6248333774f0a
Ben's Links:
Empty today :D
Ben and Ed are back after Ben's ridiculously long holiday!
Good news is they're armed with stories, sarcasm, and a few questionable dance moves from a Tina Turner musical.
Cam belt updates and holiday recovery quickly evolves into a deep dive into the British Franchise Association Conference, exploring how networking, supplier relationships, and human connection keep the franchising world spinning.
They do get stuck into music though covering AI-generated music to the future of content and creativity. The duo debate whether machines can really groove, why face-to-face beats feed-to-feed, and how visuals can transform storytelling.
It’s a blend of business insight, creative reflection, and musical chaos — proving once again that franchising isn’t just about systems; it’s about people, rhythm, and keeping the lights on when AI takes over the stage.
🎵 Featuring:
BFA Conference highlights and networking wisdom
The rise (and rhythm) of AI in music and business
Lessons from supplier partnerships and creative projects
A surprisingly emotional take on Tina Turner
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ed - Numb by Sleep Theory :
https://open.spotify.com/track/4aoQieyuKhiKwgukgJTg6n?si=17a6670b2810495c
Ben - Reign of Darkness by Thy Art Is Murder:
https://open.spotify.com/track/7eDtl2KToh99gXNRRfuY9l?si=191ba0f78385459c
BEN's LINKS:
Science Book:
https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1789294800/ref=cm_sw_r_ffobk_cp_ud_dp_EPPKXY89D7RPW1B74PM8
This week, Ben and Ed zigzag through a wonderfully odd mix of topics from the absurdity of customer service to the mysterious logic of daylight savings time.
They chat about conquering public speaking fears, why sleep might just be the ultimate business hack, and how planning beats panic every time.
Somewhere between tales of botched heists, a “bag of snakes” incident, and Ben’s 18-year milestone at Agency Express, the conversation drifts into the rhythms of music, business, and life...proving once again that good chats don’t always need a plan, just a decent brew and a sense of humour.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ben - Throne of Want by Cenobia
https://open.spotify.com/track/3Hrdh8vuUbeCK6bFkd4HZX?si=c3a03b9f889c47b0
Ed - Darker Still by Parkway Drive
https://open.spotify.com/track/37O5phPvMfJZBIscgXlw4a?si=fa3507debb394f1f
From heated debates over waffles vs. pancakes to rants about customer service and reflections on getting older, this episode serves up a mix of humour, heart, and heavy riffs.
The pair dive deep into the golden age of pop culture, crispy pancakes, dial tones, and the soundtracks that defined a generation.
Expect talk of Limp Bizkit, iconic film tunes, and the surprising link between music, mental health, and franchising.
Somehow (don’t ask how), the conversation also lands on lead generation, community building, and why nostalgia might just be the best marketing tool of all.
Join us for a rollercoaster ride of chaos and advice.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ben - Making love to Morgan Wallen by Limp Bizkit
https://open.spotify.com/track/7Ki2fTfTdDhqY2AY8muY5z?si=c877507e4c3c4d00
Ed - Hi Ren by Ren
https://open.spotify.com/track/0FLwYQoXvX8q5iRZnFX59u?si=35df1f5a54c04de8
In this episode, Ben and Ed take the scenic route from champagne debates and cam belt updates to the bigger stuff that really matters: how we think, feel, and function differently.
They explore how neurodiversity shapes creativity, motivation, and the way we connect with others—especially in franchising. From training and recruitment to exhibitions and community, the conversation highlights why embracing different minds isn’t just good for people, it’s good for business.
And of course, because it’s Ben and Ed, there’s a detour into ska music—its rebellious roots, cultural impact, and the way music can lift moods, build belonging, and keep us moving forward (even when the cam belt doesn’t).
It’s thoughtful, funny, and just a little bit offbeat - exactly how we like it.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ed - Destroy Me by President - https://open.spotify.com/track/5sdqwzp1kSHHqTFsyfhrZW?si=da701041a8cb49ff
Ben - Play Some Ska by Random Hand - https://open.spotify.com/track/61uH7qBeQqVGfnCK26OQ8L?si=776cfeb935ea4ebd
BONUS TRACK
Moonlighting by Maromaro - https://open.spotify.com/track/3wMyxsZByy8BDYSwv6ZvF0?si=91287ca0c1854468
Episode 10 is here! 🎉 Ed and Ben celebrate with stories of parenting chaos, kids’ bizarre food preferences, franchising milestones, and why community events like Franchise Socials matter.
They also wander into music - chatting one-hit wonders, consistency, and how the grind of business mirrors the charts.
Oh, and then there’s the Ben song. Don’t ask us to explain here - you’ll just have to listen. (Even Ben thinks Ed might have lost the plot with this one…)
We might only have two fans (hi Natalia, hi Imi), but that’s not stopping us.
In this episode, Ben and Ed spiral through parenting woes, dodgy playlists, the questionable future of franchise exhibitions, and whether robots could actually do a better job than most salespeople.
It’s part franchising chat, part tech speculation, part music nostalgia and entirely proof that having only two fans doesn’t mean we don’t have opinions.
Strap in for a mix of jokes, tangents, and the occasional useful insight.
p.s. Yes there is a Cam Belt update
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ed - I'd Love to change the world by Ten Years After - https://open.spotify.com/track/7n3WO6ESKS1uCI9fgkGs66?si=904caeaf292740c8
Ben - Hypocrite by Alien Weaponry - https://open.spotify.com/track/5N4le0lqX1HNZ2OhnEae2k?si=8f4afdb129404f53
Ben and Ed jump from parenting snack wars to Coachella lineups, exploring how sound effects, music sampling, and business strategy all connect. From the Wilhelm Scream to supply chains, this episode proves the sum is always greater than the parts.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ben:
Violent Nature by I Prevail
https://open.spotify.com/track/4wG1qk65XGBixayITnktbO?si=8fb8620f3bee44f9
Ed:
Closing Time by Jaya and the Cat
https://open.spotify.com/track/1fq3E88liHvERbof2fGtqP?si=df9f2a79c3b843d9
BEN's LINKS:
The "Amen Break"https://youtu.be/NkU4hsaFglU?si=wQ_jdOmTZptdyzc7Play with the playback speed. At 0.75 you've got hip hop classics. At 1.25 you've got DnB. At 1.5 it's a happy hardcore track.
Amen Break examples:
https://youtu.be/mXz_-AXBoT8?si=dkO1yqFP_WtGOLTBMetal comedian is Luke Severeid:https://youtu.be/oLMs-tU61rA?si=gyicpxchdcHLgC6T
In this episode Ben and Ed explore a variety of themes ranging from personal anecdotes to profound societal concerns.
They discuss the implications of AI, the Fermi Paradox, and the potential future of civilisations, all while weaving in humour and cultural references.
The dialogue reflects on the unpredictability of life, the nature of technology, and the mysteries of the universe, creating a thought-provoking and entertaining experience for listeners.
They also delve into the world of music, discussing iconic albums, the surprising success of pop punk and female artists, the evolution of new metal, and modern collaborations in the music industry.
They also share personal anecdotes and life lessons, emphasising the importance of seizing opportunities and exploring new experiences.
TRACK OF THE WEEKEd
End of you by Poppy, Amy Lee & Courtney Laplante: https://open.spotify.com/track/0PsFsv5xUyX06ZhIEtFkeA?si=c4621c8b30374f5f
Ben
Troubled by Bedford:
https://open.spotify.com/track/0VXcSeYdipJNDqPBLABjh8?si=77ef67b94f2e448c
In this episode of The Mic Drop, hosts Ben Brookes and Ed Purnell discuss their recent experiences, including Ed's travels across Europe and the impact of age on hangovers.
They delve into the art of drinking, share their favourite music, and reflect on the importance of living life to the fullest.
The conversation highlights how music can enhance experiences and the significance of pursuing one's passions.
They also share their 'Track of the Week' and conclude with personal reflections on life lessons learned through travel and experiences.
Ed and Ben discuss various personal anecdotes, the importance of consistency in habits, reflections on music and culture, the role of education in career paths, and insights into interview techniques and recruitment.
They also explore the significance of physical connection in relationships and share their music preferences, culminating in a discussion about the impact of small changes in life and work.
In this episode, Ed Purnell and Ben Brookes engage in a lively discussion that spans various topics, including the Elite Franchise 100 judging process, the quirky trend of sausage vending machines in Germany, and the challenges of ticket scalping in the music industry.
They explore the implications of dynamic pricing and bots on ticket sales, share their tracks of the week, and reflect on the importance of structure in business and being present in the moment.
The conversation is filled with humor, anecdotes, and insightful commentary on the intersection of music and business.
Ben and Ed discuss the ups and downs of parenting, the legacy of Ozzy Osbourne following his passing, and the impact of the Osbournes on his career.
They explore the evolution of heavy metal, the recent Coldplay controversy, and the blurred lines between personal and professional life in today's society.
The conversation also touches on the potential of AI in music and concludes with mic drop moments about the importance of rest and the idea that it's never too late to start again.
Track of the week:
Ed - Crazy Train by Ozzy Osbourne : https://open.spotify.com/track/7ACxUo21jtTHzy7ZEV56vU?si=5a7844de47994d8e
Ben - Mama, I'm Coming Home by Ozzy Osbourne: https://open.spotify.com/track/0S3gpZzlT9Hb7CCSV2owX7?si=90f1e3a6da9a4d73
In this episode, Ben and Ed explore various topics ranging from the intersection of music and franchising to the importance of political engagement among youth.
They discuss the implications of drilling into ancient ice, the significance of understanding franchisee motivations, and the challenges of attracting younger generations to the franchising industry.
The conversation also touches on personal reflections, the Peter Principle in business, and the importance of learning from failures.
Additionally, they share their tracks of the week, highlighting nostalgic pop punk and a new masked band called President.
TRACK OF THE WEEK
Ben - In the name of the father by President - https://open.spotify.com/track/3xQSG1eYo06kXI3JkPKllf?si=70eeaa4d77c54023
Ed - The Separation of Church and Skate by NoFX - https://open.spotify.com/track/6TLeWFWcnGO84nNvI0HSmA?si=d7e534d8e22d46d8
Mic check, 1, 2….. is this thing on?Join Ed and Ben, two self-confessed extrovert introverts who connected via the world of franchising, for a directionless meander through music, business format franchising, and general waffle.
This week we introduce the Mic Drop – a brand-new podcast promising no editing, no filtering, and no obvious direction, but quality chat guaranteed*.
We share our tracks of the week, talk about the need for authenticity in business and discuss how podcasts are changing the way we reach people.
So, put your hands in the air, throw up your devil horns, or simply sit back and relax whilst we fill your eardrums with aural delights.
*no warranty of chat quality implied or given
Track of the week:
Ed - No Believer by Sakoya : https://open.spotify.com/track/0vtixSxhUg9lZswJQib8Dh?si=0c0fb7cbe33b4afd
Ben - Program by Chase & Status: https://open.spotify.com/track/5xI6XC2Qc3eez4lbbIMZzF?si=a07fc23b12a04898