Invested

Hosted by Maven Capital Partners

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Mar 2026

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About the show

The Invested Podcast interviews CEOs and founders at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing businesses. Join Laura Boyd, Television and Entertainment Reporter, as she chats to these entrepreneurs about the successes and the inevitable struggles they have faced when growing their business.

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25 recent

March 12, 202634 min

Scaling for Success Season 2, Ep 4: Sophie Milliken MBE, CEO of Moja

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, our Invested Podcast launched Season 2 of Scaling for Success, a special mini-series dedicated to women-led businesses across the UK. From grassroots initiatives to national investment networks, we are spotlighting those who are opening doors for the next generation of women-led businesses.In the final episode of this series, we’re joined by Sophie Milliken MBE, one of the North East’s most recognised business leaders and a multi award‑winning entrepreneur, author, chair and investor. This conversation explores the realities behind Sophie’s business journey, from navigating entrepreneurship as a single parent to finding resilience through uncertainty and learning the importance of surrounding yourself with the right people. She also discusses her commitment to championing women in business through initiatives such as Smart Works Newcastle and City Ladies Networking, both of which aim to create more visibility and support for female founders.Reflecting on her early career at John Lewis, she talks about her unexpected move into the world of business, and how she went on to build, scale and sell her first company before launching Moja, her personal branding agency.Sophie’s perspective on the challenges faced by women, the importance of accessible networks, and how she approaches balancing work, ambition and family life is inspiring. From her own great ventures to opening more doors for the next generation of women leaders, this is not one to miss!Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

March 10, 202626 min

Scaling for Success Season 2, Ep 3: Carolyn Currie MBE, Chief Executive of Women’s Enterprise Scotland

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, our Invested Podcast is launching Season 2 of Scaling for Success, a special mini-series dedicated to women-led businesses across the UK.From grassroots initiatives to national investment networks, we are spotlighting those who are opening doors for the next generation of women-led businesses.In episode three, we are joined by Carolyn Currie MBE, Chief Executive of Women’s Enterprise Scotland and a leading voice in Scotland’s entrepreneurial community. Carolyn campaigns for women-led businesses, advocates for equitable access to finance, and guides strategic, policy-aligned approaches to supporting women’s enterprise.Carolyn reflects on her early career in the banking sector, where she helped design some of the UK’s first initiatives to support women in business. Listening to the experiences of female founders shaped her approach, from identifying funding barriers to developing policy frameworks that better reflect the needs of diverse entrepreneurs.Her work has since included contributions to policy papers for the G20 and central banks, alongside her role as a founding member of the UK Women’s Enterprise Policy Group. In 2026, she received an MBE in His Majesty The King’s New Year Honours List for her services to women’s entrepreneurship, economic empowerment, and gender equality.Carolyn also shares examples of women across Scotland who are building successful companies, often quietly and creatively, and sometimes against significant odds. She also discusses why more targeted support could unlock even greater economic potential.This conversation offers insight, optimism, and a renewed belief in what women in business can achieve.Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

March 6, 202637 min

Scaling for Success Season 2, Ep 2: Elizabeth Pirrie, CEO of AccelerateHER, and Nicki Thomson-Berwick, COO of Investing Women Angels

To mark International Women’s Day 2026, our Invested Podcast is launching Season 2 of Scaling for Success, a special mini-series dedicated for women led businesses across the UK.From grassroots initiatives to national investment networks, we are spotlighting those who are opening doors for the next generation of women-led businesses.In episode two, we’re joined by Elizabeth Pirrie and Nicki Thomson‑Berwick, two leading voices in Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Elizabeth, CEO of AccelerateHER and a board member at Investing Women Angels, is a passionate advocate for female‑led businesses across the UK, championing greater visibility, opportunities, and investment for women founders. Nicki, COO at Investing Women Angels and an angel investor herself, works closely with start‑ups and scale‑ups on product commercialisation and preparing for investment and acquisition. They reflect on their unique journeys and the shared mission behind two of Scotland’s most influential organisations supporting women in entrepreneurship and investment. They reveal the barriers women still face in accessing early capital, why traditional pitching narratives often disadvantage female founders, and how collaborative, relationship driven programmes can transform both readiness and understanding.Filled with stories of remarkable founders, innovative funding routes, this conversation highlights the momentum building across Scotland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and the structural shifts still needed to unlock its full economic potential.From founder behaviours to the investor questions that deserve more airtime, we discuss the people, networks, and pivotal moments that have shaped their careers, and share how they drive meaningful change as leaders.Whether you’re a founder, investor, or simply curious about the future of inclusive entrepreneurship, this episode offers honesty, energy, and powerful inspiration for International Women’s Day.Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

March 4, 202631 min

Scaling for Success Season 2, Ep 1: Silka Patel, Founder and Head of Scotland Women in Technology

Welcome to the first episode of our special podcast series, where we shine a light on the people and organisations championing opportunities for women-led businesses and investors across the UK.From grassroots initiatives to national investment networks, we’re highlighting the individuals and teams reshaping the entrepreneurial landscape and opening doors for the next generation of women founders.In this episode, we’re joined by Silka Patel, Founder and Head of Scotland Women in Technology, a national organisation dedicated to inspiring and supporting women and girls across the tech sector.A passionate advocate for diversity and innovation, Silka reflects on her early experiences in the industry and the pivotal advice that helped her “own her seat at the table.” She shares her journey from “accidental technologist” to industry leader and role model. After beginning her career in travel and marketing, a chance opportunity with a global technology company changed her path and sparked a commitment to ensuring more women could access similar opportunities.Now a nationwide network and established awards programme, Scotland Women in Technology demonstrates how building supportive communities and increasing visibility can drive meaningful change. In this episode, we explore why representation matters, particulary for girls and young women considering STEM careers, alongside the funding and support challenges female founders continue to face, and the organisations working to address them.Silka’s energy, honesty and conviction offer a clear vision for a more inclusive future. Whether you work in technology, lead a business, or champion greater representation, this conversation will leave you reflecting on how you can play a part. Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

February 13, 2026Episode 526 min

Season 2, Ep 5: Seb Inglis-Jones, Co-Founder & Co-CEO of Maeving, Britain’s First Electric Motorcycle Manufacturer

In the fifth episode of Invested Season 2, we catch up with Seb Inglis‑Jones, Co‑Founder and Co-CEO of Maeving, Britain’s first electric motorcycle manufacturer, a pioneer in sustainable transport on two wheels.From marketing in the corporate world to motorcycle expert and entrepreneur, Seb caught the start-up bug at university, where he realised he wanted to build a company of his own. His experience in early‑stage tech and later at global brands like Reckitt Benckiser and Danone helped him develop a strong work ethic and risk tolerance but confirmed that the corporate world wasn’t for him. Motivated by frustration at the world’s slow response to climate change, he set out to create a business with a mission to take meaningful action.He reflects on the early days of Maeving as pure bliss, the exhilaration of quitting his job, stepping into the unknown, and learning how to build a prototype electric motorcycle from scratch. The business has since grown into one of the UK’s leading innovators in electric mobility, and Seb credits that progress to the talented people who have joined him on this journey.A man of many talents, Seb touches on the passions that keep him grounded, from surfing and skiing to an unwavering love of good coffee and part-time DJ, his infectious humour and attitude bring a unique perspective to find the balance and fun in the everyday. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about building a business with purpose and what surrounding yourself with the right people can really achieve. Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

October 24, 2025Episode 429 min

Season 2, Ep 4: James Uffindell, Founder and Exec Chair of Bright Network, the UK’s leading careers platform for graduates

In the fourth episode of Invested Season 2, Laura Boyd sits down with James Uffindell, Founder and Exec Chair of Bright Network, the UK’s leading platform connecting ambitious young people with top career opportunities.James shares his journey from growing up on a farm to launching his first business at 20, turning a university idea into a tech-driven company that now supports over 1.4 million students. He recalls how a single teacher’s belief in him changed the course of his life, inspiring the mission behind Bright Network to unlock potential and level the playing field for students from all backgrounds.James also reflects on the importance of resilience, curiosity, and focus in entrepreneurship, and offers candid insights into scaling a business, navigating international expansion, and maintaining personal wellbeing.Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a student navigating your next steps, or simply curious about the future of talent and technology, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical advice.Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

September 10, 2025Episode 338 min

Season 2, Ep 3: Elaine Penhaul, Founder and Managing Director of multi award-winning home staging business, Lemon and Lime

In the third episode of Invested Season 2, Laura Boyd sits down with Elaine Penhaul, Founder and Managing Director of Lemon and Lime, the UK’s largest property staging company outside London. Elaine’s story is one of reinvention, resilience, and relentless optimism. She talks openly about her unconventional career path, from studying maths and training as an actuary, to teaching sailing in Greece, and eventually building a multi-award-winning interiors business. What began as a favour to improve a property for sale became the foundation of Lemon and Lime, a company now preparing to franchise across the UK. Elaine reflects on the early challenges of starting a business later in life, the lessons learned from working in male-dominated industries, and why she believes in taking risks, offering practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Now an expert in property staging, her book, ‘Sell High, Sell Fast’ is an Amazon no 1 best-seller. A contributor to many property podcasts, she also writes for publications like Estate Agent Today and The Times, and has recently launched the first app to evidence return on investment for staging to a worldwide market. With a background in actuarial science, education, business coaching, and property development, Elaine brings a unique perspective on leadership, growth, and the power of optimism. This is an inspiring conversation about embracing change, building a business with purpose, and creating opportunities from adversity. Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

July 9, 2025Episode 228 min

Season 2, Ep 2: Steve Bennington, CEO of robotic wire harness manufacturer, Q5D

In the second episode of Invested, Laura Boyd sits down with Steve Bennington, entrepreneur and CEO of Q5D, a company pioneering robotic additive manufacturing, to explore a remarkable career journey that bridges world class science and cutting edge innovation.Steve began his career in nuclear physics, helping to establish leading research facilities and advising governments on scientific policy. But it was a bold leap from academia into entrepreneurship that defined the next chapter of his story. Now leading Q5D, Steve is transforming the way electrical systems are built, with major implications for the automotive and aerospace sectors.In this episode, Steve reflects on the realities of building a technology business from the ground up. From the uncertainty of launching the company to the pressures of scaling it in a fast moving market. He speaks candidly about resilience, balancing family life with business demands, and the culture he's building at Q5D.With Q5D recently closing a £10.9 million Series A funding round, Steve shares what’s next for the business and why he believes now is a pivotal moment for UK manufacturing.A fascinating conversation about leadership, risk and the power of bold ideas. Don’t miss it. Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

May 29, 2025Episode 126 min

Season 2, Ep 1: Mark Taylor, CEO of AI innovator, Automated Analytics

The Maven Invested Podcast is back, interviewing CEOs, entrepreneurs and innovators who are at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing smaller companies.In episode 1 of the new series Laura speaks with Mark Taylor, Founder and CEO of Automated Analytics, a technology business helping organisations around the world unlock the power of Artificial Intelligence.Mark talks openly about the moments that shaped his entrepreneurial mindset, from early challenges that sparked his determination to the pivotal decisions that defined his leadership style.He shares how a conversation on a cruise ship inspired him to walk away from a secure role and build a business that now supports global brands including British Gas and Pizza Hut.Mark also reflects on the evolution of Automated Analytics, from its early focus on bespoke corporate solutions to rapid growth in the US. He talks about the importance of doing what you love, and how curiosity and resilience continue to drive him forward.With a background in digital marketing, Mark has worked with some of the UK’s best-known brands, including Virgin Active, Hilton Hotels, Esporta and Halfords.This is an honest conversation about risk-taking, building a business with purpose, and how AI can make a meaningful difference when combined with human insight and passion.Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.

April 8, 2025Episode 521 min

Scaling for Success Ep 5: Dr Melanie Goward, Partner at Maven Capital Partners

Welcome to the final episode of Scaling for Success, our special mini-series of the Maven Capital Partners’ Invested Podcast, hosted by our Investment Manager, Rebecca MacDermid. This series explores the journeys of inspiring female leaders who have successfully scaled businesses and driven meaningful change. Through their stories, we uncover the lessons, strategies, and mindsets that have propelled them to success.This time, we bring the spotlight closer to home with a conversation featuring Dr Melanie Goward, Partner at Maven. A technology specialist, Melanie’s career spans over 20 years, beginning as a PhD scientist from the University of Cambridge, where she was part of the research team for the international Human Genome Project, before moving into senior investment roles at NESTA and Finance Wales.In this episode, we speak about Melanie's journey from academic research to private equity and the lessons she’s learned along the way. She shares insights into her role at Maven and what she finds most rewarding about working in the investment space. Melanie also discusses the importance of improving access to funding for female founders, the work Maven is doing to support greater diversity across the industry, and who inspires her.Tune in to hear Melanie reflect on her career, the challenges she’s faced, and the insights that have guided her path in private equity.Before you go, don’t forget to follow or subscribe to our podcast and if you want to hear more from some of our inspirational investees at the helm of some of the UK’s fastest growing companies, head over to mavencp.com.