£15M worth of meals BOOTSTRAPPED with GSN founder Craig Allen (Gold Standard Nutrition)

In this latest episode of Brand Growth Heroes, we’re over the moon (as always) to welcome back one of our favourite guests, Ben Greensmith, Country Manager for the UK and Ireland of Tony’s Chocolonely.Since we last chatted to Ben on the show, Tony’s Chocolonely has not only achieved impressive sales growth in the UK but has also made remarkable strides in driving positive change within the cocoa industry.In this episode, Ben and Fiona dive deep into the progress Tony’s Chocolonely has made, covering:Their growth and performance and market share in the UKExciting new product launches and brand innovationsBut most importantly, the impact of Tony’s Open Chain on the Cocoa industry.We also discuss the brand’s unique approach to marketing, including:The learnings from their Advent Calendar launchThe UK Sweet Solutions campaign that captured media attentionBalancing awareness of critical cocoa supply chain issues with Tony’s playful tone of voice—all while reminding consumers just how delicious their chocolate tastesWhat’s happening next?Useful Links:Tony’s Chocolonely WebsiteTony's Chocolonely LinkedInBen Greensmith LinkedInFollow Tony’s Chocolonely on InstagramFollow Tony’s Chocolonely on FacebookIf this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, don't forget to click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review!You won’t want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.If you find Brand Growth Heroes episodes useful, then imagine spending 12 weeks on a Mini MBA programme run by host Fiona Fitz: The Brand Growth Heroes Mini MBA 2025 powered by Alantra will be open for applications on January 6th.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us on our Brand Growth Heroes socials: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.Thanks to our Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

16 Joulu 202442min

In this latest episode, we’re diving into the remarkable story of Scott Davies, the visionary Welsh founder of Hilltop Honey. From an early career as a bricklayer and coal yard worker to building a £50M business (number two in the market) and designing and building his own 55,000 square foot factory, Scott’s story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and an unyielding passion for bees and business!Scott takes us behind the scenes of Hilltop Honey’s unlikely start and rise to success, sharing his experiences and the strategies that have helped him overcome challenges and achieve incredible growth. It's packed with inspiration for founders, dreamers, and anyone looking to turn adversity into opportunity. If you are interested in understanding what it takes to grow and lead a business of this size, then this is an episode for you.By the way, if you're listening to this on Spotify, you'll find a place where it says ASK A QUESTION. You can ask Fiona Fitz a question, and she will be able to answer you. So, if you have any questions about this episode or anything you thought helpful, please let Fiona know!Useful links:Hilltop Honey WebsiteScott Davies LinkedInInstagramFacebookAND ... if this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, PLEASE click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE and leave a review. You don't want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciatedPlease don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to keep learning from the founders of challenger brands who are thinking differently about growth: Follow us across our BGH socials: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.Sign up for the latest news and information on theBrand Growth Heroes Mini MBA here.Thanks to my Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

2 Joulu 202428min

We are thrilled to welcome back Irish entrepreneur Gary Lavin, the founder of VITHIT Drinks. VITHIT is brand that’s seen incredible growth in recent years, establishing itself as a leader in the vitamin water in the UK and Ireland. With an £80 million run-rate in 2025, and multiple international markets, VITHIT is now a global player to be reckoned with.But, like so many others, the real story here lies in founder Gary's relentless journey - one that that transformed a small idea into a business that knocked global brands such as Vitamin Water from off their perch in the UK, in the space of just a few years.And Gary Lavin isn’t just a guest; he’s one of Fiona’s oldest friends in business. He joins us to share his story of resilience, taking on industry giants, navigating new markets, and building a brand with a laser focus on innovation and grit.And if you’re interested in hearing more, we’ve just re-released our first interview with Gary from four years ago as a companion to this episode. So, if you’re listening now, consider this episode, part two of the VITHIT story! LINK PART ONE If this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, PLEASE click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE and leave a review. You don't want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.Useful links:WebsiteGary's LinkedInVITHIT LinkedInInstagramFacebookBy the way, if you're listening to this on Spotify, you'll find a place where it says ASK A QUESTION. You can ask Fiona a question, and she will be able to answer you. So, if you have any questions about this episode or anything you thought helpful, please let Fiona know!Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to keep learning from the founders of challenger brands who are thinking differently about growth.Follow us across our socials: Brand Growth Heroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.Sign up for the latest news and information on the Brand Growth Heroes Mini MBA here.Thanks to my Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

18 Marras 202438min

VITHIT: This episode is the first in a 2-part series where we dive deep into the journey of the leading vitamin water in the UK and Ireland, through the eyes of its Irish founder, Gary Lavin. VITHIT is a brand close to my heart, because the branding was designed by my truly talented brother and best friend, Dave of Dave Fitz Design, a boutique brand design agency in Dublin. VITHIT is a great example of a winning brand that has taken it's time to learn, grow and get to a category leadership position, but where it hasn't happened over night, and there have been plenty of challenges overcome along the way.In this episode recorded a few years ago, you'll learn Gary's secrets to getting the brand to 30 million pounds in sales through his tenacity and hands-on approach, and in the next episode - which will be released straight after this one - we catch up with Gary in real time (November 2024) to find out how he's managed to hit a run-rate of £80m in global sales for 2025!

14 Marras 202435min

Ever been embarrassed at the till buying condoms?! This week, Fiona Fitz is joined by Farah Kabir and Sarah Welsh, the brilliant duo behind HANX, a scaling challenger brand in the sexual wellness category.Farah and Sarah turned an awkward personal experience into a market-leading company by spotting a glaring gap in the female-focused sexual health market. They've now built a brand that, although it started in condoms, has evolved to support women throughout all stages of their lives, addressing the various ways that women's bodies change and show up at different ages.They're securing distribution in major retailers like Boots, Tesco, and Sainsbury's and are even making waves in the U.S. with Urban Outfitters.HANX is evolving beyond just being a condom brand—it's becoming a comprehensive women's health and wellness brand.So why not see how it's done in a category that might be very different from the one you operate in?  Note: Sarah was moving between locations during the recording, so you might notice video and sound quality changes throughout the episode.By the way, if you're listening to this on Spotify, you'll find a place where it says ASK A QUESTION.You can ask Fiona a question, and she will be able to answer you. So, if you have any questions about this episode or anything you thought helpful, please let Fiona know!Useful linksHANX websiteHANX LinkedInFarah Kabir LinkedInSarah Welsh LinkedInIf this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, don't forget to click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review!You won’t want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us across our socials: Brand Growth Heroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.Sign up for the latest news and information on the Brand Growth Heroes Accelerator Programme here.Thanks to my Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

4 Marras 202428min

We're thrilled to welcome back Fuel 10k founder Barney Mauleverer for his third appearance on Brand Growth Heroes. Barney's just wrapped up an incredible 13-year journey with Fuel 10K, and he's here to chat about the grit and patience it takes to build and sell a company. Trust us, if you're a founder facing your own hurdles, you'll want to tune in for this one!Barney's story shows that success isn't always about sprinting to the finish line. Sometimes, it's more like running a marathon. Every experience, good or bad, plays a part in the big picture. His journey is super-inspiring for founders out there, reminding us that there is something to learn from every experience - even the not-so-glamorous stuff like factory floor checks!But wait, there's more! Barney's also spilling the beans on his latest venture. He's just launched the 'FUTURE OF FOOD competition, a cool competition for entrepreneurs who are shaping what we'll be eating tomorrow (unusually, it's free to enter and attend). The final round will be held on November 26th at the stunning venue: The Royal Geographic Society - 16 finalists pitch to win in front of food industry luminaries, with an audience of entrepreneurs, investors, buyers and journalists. I'm lucky enough to be a judge on the day, so come and say hello!Thank you, Barney, for shining a light on the future of the industry/market/how we will feed ourselves. We hope you enjoy this episode and will join us on the 23rd November - register to attend here!By the way, if you're listening to this on Spotify, you'll find a place where it says ASK A QUESTION.You can ask Fiona a question, and she will be able to answer you. So, if you have any questions about this episode or anything you thought helpful, please let Fiona know!Useful links/info:Future Food Competition info hereRegister to attend hereBarney’s LinkedInThe Future of Food Competition is a free, fully inclusive, not-for-profit event. Amidst significant global changes and rapidly evolving megatrends, this challenge shines a spotlight on opportunities and issues in the food industry. By encouraging debate, entrepreneurialism and innovative thinking, we seek to drive progress and positive change. We hope this event becomes a regular highlight in the calendar for everyone passionate about investing in food entrepreneurship.Here's the running order:12am – Attendees arrive and network12.45 – Doors shut13.00 – Setting the scene...Mike Berners-Lee – author of There Is No Planet B and How Bad Are Bananas & passionate expert in Carbon Footprinting.Pen Hadow – Arctic record-breaker and conservationist dedicated to protecting the seas and its wildlife.Kevin Dorren is an AI enthusiast and shifting populations specialist.14.30 - All attendees circulate the Pitch Tables15.30 - Judges preside & with a Popular Vote, and select 3 of the bestMiranda Ballard from NielsenIQ uses case study data to explain how entrepreneurial endeavour can impact big business.16.00 – 3 top finalists invited to pitch in the iconic Ondaatje Theatre + Q&A16.45 – Judges & Popular Vote (Strictly style!) Gold, Silver, Bronze are announced & prizes awarded17.00 - It’s a wrap!Future Food Competition info hereIf this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, don't forget to click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review!You won’t want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us across our socials: Brand Growth Heroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.Sign up for the latest news and information on the Brand Growth Heroes Accelerator Programme here.Thanks to my Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane,Ballagroove.comand podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts,Social KEWS

16 Loka 202430min

In this latest episode of Brand Growth Heroes, Fiona sits down with the inspirational human being Ruby Raut, the founder and CEO of WUKA (Wake Up, Kick-Ass), to discuss her remarkable story from growing up in Nepal, where menstruation was shrouded in taboo, to creating a brand that is revolutionising the Fem Care category, and giving dignity back to girls and women every month.Ruby’s background in environmental science and her passion for sustainability inspired her to create WUKA, a brand offering sustainable, leak-proof period underwear that drives positive change in the Femtech space.Ruby highlights WUKA’s incredible milestones, from becoming the first period underwear brand to hit supermarket shelves in the UK to successfully campaigning to remove VAT on these essential products.She opens up about the grit and determination it took to bring her ideas to life, from cleaning toilets at the 2012 Olympics to founding a pioneering company.What we loved learning in this episodeA world-class example of how authentic business purpose can inspire true innovation and customer loyalty.Insights into the process of developing sustainable productsHow focusing on a single SKU instead of a complete range can keep things simple - for you and for your shopperPractical advice for entrepreneurs on overcoming challenges, keeping costs down, and focusing on social impact.Find out today how and why Ruby Raut is reshaping the future of period care for millions.By the way, if you're listening to this on Spotify, you'll find a place where it says ASK A QUESTION.You can ask Fiona a question, and she will be able to answer you. So, if you have any questions about this episode or anything you thought helpful, please let Fiona know!Useful linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ruby-raut-49987b58/WUKA websiteIf this episode inspires you to think about new ways to drive business growth, don't forget to click FOLLOW or SUBSCRIBE on your favourite podcast app and leave a review!You won’t want to miss the next episode, in which Fiona Fitz talks with another successful founder of a challenger brand who shares more valuable insights into driving growth. Plus, your small gesture will be truly appreciated.Please don't hesitate to join our Brand Growth Heroes community to stay updated with captivating stories and learnings from your beloved brands on their path to success!Follow us across our socials: Brand Growth Heroes on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram and X.Sign up for the latest news and information on the Brand Growth Heroes Accelerator Programme here.Thanks to my Sound Engineer, Gyp Buggane, Ballagroove.com and podcast producer/content creator, Kathryn Watts, Social KEWS.

30 Syys 20241h