Episode Summary What if every online purchase at a Black-owned business put cash back in your pocket – and doubled donations to charity? Matthew Addai, co-founder of Cash Black and Afrofiliate, reveals how three brothers turned a 2020 lockdown idea into the UK’s first cashback platform + affiliate network exclusively for Black-owned brands. Discover the AI-powered browser extension, real-life cashback events, and why “just talk to us” is the simplest way investors can unlock this £multi-billion opportunity.Chapters [00:00] Intro – Meet Matthew Addai, CEO of Cash Black & Afrofiliate [00:51] Cash Black Explained: Earn real cashback shopping Black-owned brands [01:13] Afrofiliate: The UK’s first affiliate network for Black brands & diverse creators [01:43] Born in 2020: From sabbatical & redundancy to two tech companies [03:36] “Cash Black” started as a joke between brothers – now it’s a movement [04:33] Building partnerships: Easier in 2020 (BLM momentum), tougher in 2025 [06:46] Funding reality: Rejections, pop-up market pitches & accelerator wins [09:40] Advice to investors: “Just communicate with us” – stop guessing what we need [11:35] Brutally honest advice to aspiring founders: “Don’t start a business… unless ‘don’t’ isn’t enough to stop you” [14:00] Where to join: Cashblack.com + Afrofiliate.com Key Discussion Points Cash Black users earn cashback OR donate (100% matched) to charity Afrofiliate connects Black brands with creators of all sizes – micro to mega Built from scratch after 2020 anti-racism wave – now backed by Wray & Nephew AI “Afrobot” Chrome extension shows Black-owned alternatives while you shopKey Takeaways Supporting Black businesses shouldn’t feel like charity – it should pay YOU Investors: Talk directly to founders instead of assuming what we need If “don’t do it” is enough to stop you – don’t. If it isn’t – welcome to entrepreneurship Cashback + affiliate tech = scalable, sustainable Black wealth creationNotable Quotes “We reward members with cash back when they shop with Black-owned businesses.” – Matthew Addai “I heard ‘don’t’ from everyone… and did it anyway.” – Matthew Addai 

Episode Summary From feeling like an outsider in fashion to founding Black Girls in Design London (now 570+ members across UK & Ghana), Sandra Adu reveals how lockdown workshops turned into flagship programmes with Canva, BrainStation and Akaya Foundation. Discover the raw truth about self-funding, getting rejected 3× for grants, and the mentorship + accountability strategies that finally unlocked multi-year funding to empower 300+ Black girls in design.Chapters [00:00] Intro & Powerbook 2025 Recognition [00:51] Sandra’s Journey: Fashion → Graphic Design → Agency Art Director (Rolls-Royce, HSBC, Adobe) [01:48] Lockdown Pivot → Lecturer at UAL & Royal College of Art → PhD [02:15] Founding Black Girls in Design (2022) – The Community She Wished She Had [02:44] Flagship Programmes: Design Her Skills (Canva), Design Her Futures (Ghana-UK), Mastering Your Skills (BrainStation) [03:41] Self-Funding Reality: Building Everything Herself + Spending Thousands While Full-Time Employed [05:01] Rejected 3× → Won Multi-Year Funding: The Power of Storytelling & Community Support [06:30] Accountability Strategy: Mentorship Circles That Actually Work [09:25] How Corporates & Investors Can Find & Fund Black-Led Impact Businesses [11:50] Advice to Aspiring Founders: Purpose Over Profit, Start Small, Trade Skills for Access Key Discussion Points 3 flagship programmes reaching UK + Ghana Turned 3 lockdown workshops into partnerships with Canva, BrainStation & Akaya Foundation Rejected 3 times for funding → finally won by leading with personal story & measurable impact Built a 570+ strong global community in just 3 years 79% of Black business owners feel unsupported — here’s how to change thatKey Takeaways Your personal “why” and story are your strongest funding assets Mentorship + accountability circles > life coaches Write the vision, share it publicly, let the community hold you to it Start where you are: Sandra traded logos for event tickets when she couldn’t afford entryNotable Quotes “Your story is what lands the funding.” – Sandra Adu “I never wanted the next generation of Black girls to feel as isolated as I once did.” –

Episode Summary 81% of Black & ethnic-minority founders find raising startup capital difficult — vs 56% of white founders. Cecil Adjalo (COO, Foundervine) reveals the hidden structural barriers, the power of community economics, and why Black founders who reach the same milestone have already proven 10× resilience. Discover the free programmes, corporate partnerships, and mindset shifts closing the multi-billion funding gap.Chapters [00:00] Intro & Cecil’s Role at Foundervine [00:56] Wray Forward: Supporting 4,000+ Black Founders Since 2021 [02:19] The Shocking 81% vs 56% Funding Gap [02:48] Structural Barriers: Networks, Wealth, Bias & Bank Lending [04:16] Power Book 2025 – 25 Stand-Out Black UK Founders [06:09] Doing More With Less: Beard Surgeon Hits £1.7M Sales [07:34] The Power of Buying Black & Circulating the Pound [09:54] Closing the Knowledge Gap (Free Programmes vs “10× Courses”) [14:06] Confidence Crisis: Why Black Men Ask for Money Less [16:32] Banks Reject Ethnic-Minority Firms Nearly 2× More (49% vs 32%) [18:54] Corporate Partnerships That Actually Work [20:23] The One Thing Lenders Must Understand About Black Resilience [21:50] Resources & Close Key Discussion Points Black UK household wealth is up to 9× lower → less friends & family funding Ethnic-minority firms 49% loan rejection rate vs 32% overall (British Business Bank) Black founders operate ultra-lean, turning £100–£300 into million-pound businesses Wray Forward (Foundervine + Wray & Nephew) has supported 4,000+ founders for free Confidence gap: 53% of Black founders held back by fear of askingKey Takeaways Resilience is the hidden superpower: Black founders who reach the same point have jumped higher hurdles Community economics works — keep the pound circulating inside before it leaves Free, high-quality programmes beat paid “guru” courses every time Corporates get better ROI by funding community-led organisations, not running their own schemesNotable Quotes “When a Black founder looks the same as a white founder on paper, they’ve already overcome 10× more barriers.” – Cecil Adjalo “If communities don’t buy and sell from each other, they ca

Episode Summary 90% of business leaders say they’re committed to inclusion — yet only half know how to support neuro-divergent staff. Dr Louise Morpeth reveals shocking research: 43% of neuro-divergent employees are ready to quit, but with the right adjustments businesses can unlock a 45% productivity boost, 24% higher retention, and £21,000 per person in savings. Discover the practical, low-cost steps that turn good intentions into profit.Chapters[00:00] Intro & Brain in Hand Overview[00:29] 90% of Leaders Want Inclusion – But Only 50% Know How[00:55] What Is Neuro-divergence? (Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia + More)[01:49] The Employee-Employer Disconnect[02:16] 77% of HR Leaders Worried About Insufficient Support[02:44] Creating Psychological Safety & Spotting Hidden Struggles[03:44] 45% Productivity Boost + £21K Savings Per Person[04:37] Simple Cultural Changes That Work for Everyone[06:00] 43% Considering Leaving – How to Retain Neuro-Diverse Talent[07:20] Cost-Effective Strategies (Start with Manager Training)[08:18] First Steps to Build a Neuro-Inclusive Culture Tomorrow[09:39] How Brain in Hand’s “Coach-in-Your-Pocket” Works[11:05] Why Media Portrayals of Neuro-divergence Miss the Mark[12:04] Resources & Close Key Discussion Points 43% of neuro-divergent employees plan to leave in the next 12 months Only 1 in 5 feel safe disclosing their condition to managers Inclusive workplaces deliver 45% higher productivity, 24% better retention, 11 fewer sick days Average financial saving: £21,000 per neuro-divergent employee per year Simple fixes: “Work With Me” profiles, clear schedules, unambiguous communication Manager confidence is the #1 barrier – and the biggest opportunityKey Takeaways Neuro-inclusion isn’t charity — it’s a proven profit driver Start with psychological safety and manager training (biggest ROI) Small adjustments (e.g., sending week-1 schedules early) reduce anxiety and boost performance 3 in 4 employers admit they’re missing untapped potentialNotable Quotes “45% increase in productivity, 24% increase in retention, and £21,000 saved per person.” – Dr Louise Morpeth “Only 1 in 5 neuro-

Episode SummaryHost Clayton M. Coke interviews Craig Carson, Managing Director of Barratt London, on how London’s housing crunch is stalling Gen Z life goals and what developers are doing to help. From 40% delaying marriage/kids to deposit matches and new-build perks, discover Barratt’s “Step on the Ladder” campaign and practical paths to ownership. Ideal for first-time buyers, renters, and property professionals.Chapters [00:00] Intro & Barratt London Overview [00:29] 40+ Years, 50K Homes, TfL Partnerships [00:57] 36% Young Adults Held Back by No Home [01:26] Gen Z Delays & “Step on the Ladder” Campaign [02:21] London Land Squeeze & Lifestyle Shifts [03:45] 29% Don’t Know How to Start Buying [04:37] Cutting Through Negative Property Press [05:05] Key Worker Deposits, Deposit Unlock, 5% Match [06:50] Shared Ownership & Lifetime ISA (£1K Bonus) [08:17] New-Build vs. Fixer-Upper Advantages [10:10] Stamp Duty Explained & Broker Advice [12:02] Tapping Buyer Excitement [13:26] Government 1.5M Homes Target [14:48] Entrepreneur Advice: Stay in the Market [15:44] Resources & Close Key Discussion Points Barratt London: 40+ years, 50,000 homes delivered, 2,000/year goal via TfL brownfield sites. Gen Z Crisis: 40% delay milestones; 36% feel held back; 29% clueless on process. Market Dynamics: Land scarcity, Elizabeth Line, hybrid work, 50% affordable homes. Solutions: Mortgage brokers, Deposit Unlock (95% LTV), 5% deposit match, key worker schemes. Shared Ownership (via partners), Lifetime ISA (£1,000 bonus on £4,000 saved). New-Build Perks: Move-in ready, energy-efficient, 10-year NHBC warranty. Stamp Duty/Mortgages: Hidden costs; brokers simplify. Policy: 1.5M homes target; ambitious collaboration needed.Key Takeaways Mortgage often cheaper than rising rent—deposit access is key. Lifetime ISA adds £1,000 free per £4,000 saved annually. New homes = lower bills, no reno hassle, prime transport links. Start with a broker to avoid surprises like stamp duty. Optimism drives sales—focus on dream, not hard-sell.Notable Quotes “40% of Gen Z are putting off marriage, children, or travel because of the housing

Episode Summary: In this insightful episode of The Cashflow Show, hosted by Clayton M. Coke, Consumer finance and savings expert Sarah Pennells joins to discuss the findings of Royal London’s recent research on savings and ISAs. The episode dives into why millions of UK Entrepreneurs are missing out on financial opportunities due to confusion, risk aversion, and myths about investing. Sarah shares actionable insights on overcoming barriers to savings, understanding ISAs, and empowering diverse groups, including women, to invest confidently. Perfect for anyone looking to make their money work harder!Key Discussion Points Role of a Consumer Finance Expert: Sarah explains her work at Royal London, including webinars, research on financial resilience, and creating guides to demystify pensions and ISAs. Royal London’s ISA Research: A survey of 4,000 UK adults revealed insights into savings habits, ISA usage, and barriers to investing, such as risk aversion and lack of understanding. Risk Aversion in the UK: British savers tend to be cautious, often sticking to cash savings despite inflation risks, with myths about needing large sums to invest. Stocks and Shares ISAs: 60% of cash ISA holders are open to moving funds to stocks and shares ISAs for better returns, but barriers like jargon and lack of confidence persist. Gender Gap in Confidence: Women report lower confidence in understanding ISA rules, highlighting the need for jargon-free communication. Financial Mindset Shift: Sarah emphasizes small, consistent investments and the power of compound interest for long-term wealth building.Key Takeaways Many UK adults have significant cash savings (average £15,000) but avoid investing due to myths about needing wealth to start. Stocks and shares ISAs are accessible, starting at £50/month, and offer tax-free growth, ideal for long-term goals like retirement. Inflation erodes cash savings over time, making investing a smarter choice for funds not needed for 5+ years. Women face unique barriers in finance due to jargon; clear, simple communication can bridge this gap. Compounding is a powerful tool for wealth creation, even with small, regular investments.Notable Quotes “Personal finance, savings, and investing can still be absolutel

Episode Summary :Could the UK economy gain a £75 billion boost by empowering ethnic minority businesses?In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke interviews Professor Monder Ram OBE, Director of CREME at Aston University, about the Time to Change report. Professor Ram reveals how ethnic minority entrepreneurs, twice as entrepreneurial as their white counterparts, face barriers in finance, markets, and support, yet hold untapped potential for growth.Learn how addressing these challenges can drive economic growth and how businesses can support inclusive entrepreneurship.Listen in for actionable insights and visit CREME at Aston University for the full Time to Change report!Key Discussion PointsCREME’s Mission: The Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (CREME) researches and develops solutions for challenges facing UK ethnic minority businesses (00:28–01:26).Entrepreneurial Disparity: Ethnic minority communities are twice as entrepreneurial but face higher business failure rates after 3.5 years compared to white counterparts (01:26–04:22).Economic Potential: Ethnic minority businesses contribute £25 billion to the UK economy, with potential to reach £100 billion if barriers are addressed (03:23–03:52).Time to Change Report: A NatWest-backed study provides 10 evidence-based recommendations to boost growth through better finance, data, and support (07:18–11:11).Finance Barriers: Black and ethnic minority entrepreneurs are twice as likely to be discouraged from seeking finance despite having bankable propositions (04:52–05:50).Support Gaps: Current business support often misaligns with the needs of minority entrepreneurs, who require high-value networks and supply chain access (06:20–07:18).Government Strategy: The Backing Your Business strategy incorporates CREME’s recommendations, emphasizing the everyday economy and inclusive policies (13:08–15:32).NatWest’s Role: NatWest’s 10-year incubator program fosters inclusive support, creating mutual atmospheres for minority entrepreneurs (17:00–18:24).Regional SME Summits: Government summits aim to gather feedback, but success depends on implementation and community partnerships (19:20–20:49).Global Lessons: Long-term, well-funded initiatives in the US and Canada show the need for sustained investment, unlike the UK’s often short

Why are South African high-net-worth individuals flocking to the UK? In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke speaks with Yash Naidoo, Senior Wealth Planner at Nedbank Private Wealth, about the ongoing migration of South African wealth to the UK. Yash shares insights on cultural ties, investment preferences, and wealth planning strategies driving this trend. Discover how businesses can tap into this migration, from property investments to global portfolios, and help clients achieve their financial goals. Tune in for expert advice and to explore wealth planning solutions!Key Discussion PointsRole of Wealth Planning: Naidoo uses cashflow modeling to align clients’ goals, simplifying complex financial decisions for South Africans relocating to the UK (00:29–00:57).Trend of Migration: Over 15 years, Nedbank has seen consistent South African client interest in UK relocation, driven by historic and cultural ties (01:26–02:51).UK’s Appeal: Familiarity from shared legal, educational, and cultural systems (e.g., English language, rugby) makes the UK a seamless destination (02:23–02:51).Investment Preferences: Clients favor globally diversified portfolios and UK property purchases for stability and growth (03:19–04:17).UK as a Global Hub: Proximity to the EU, minimal time differences, and easy flights make the UK an ideal base for South Africans (04:46–05:16).Anti-Foreigner Sentiment: Perceived by some, but not a major deterrent for high-net-worth South Africans navigating multicultural environments (05:43–06:12).Wealth Planning First Steps: Budgeting, understanding income streams, and opening international bank accounts are key to successful transitions (06:41–07:38).Entrepreneurial Spirit: South Africans bring entrepreneurial energy, enhancing the UK’s multicultural economy (08:07–08:36).Sustained Trend: Migration is expected to continue due to education opportunities and family ties, with no signs of slowing (08:36–09:32).Practical Steps for Relocation: Start with reconnaissance trips, open international accounts, and seek professional advice to hedge currency risks (09:59–11:24).Key TakeawaysSouth African wealth migration to the UK is driven by cultural familiarity, education, and investment opportunities, a trend consistent for 15 years.

Episode Summary: Entrepreneurs face crises that test their limits but can they build resilience to thrive? In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke interviews Dr Rachel Doern, author of The Resilient Entrepreneur and Associate Professor at Goldsmiths, University of London. Drawing on her research from the 2011 London riots and COVID-19, and research on crises and resilience from different parts of the world Dr Rachel unpacks resilience as a dynamic process, sharing strategies to strengthen it and pitfalls to avoid. Learn practical tools like distraction, positive reappraisal, and expectation management to navigate business setbacks and boost personal wellbeing. Listen now to discover how to fortify your resilience and grab The Resilient Entrepreneur at Bristol University Press or Amazon!Key Discussion PointsDefining Resilience: Resilience is a learnable process, not just a trait, involving adjustments to attention, thinking, and resources to recover from crises (02:16–03:13).Book Overview: The Resilient Entrepreneur uses the 2011 London riots to explore how entrepreneurs build resilience through strategies and avoid vulnerabilities (01:47–02:46).London Riots Context: The 2011 riots, sparked by Mark Duggan’s death, impacted 22 of 32 London boroughs, with small businesses looted or burned, shaping Doern’s research (05:29–06:25).Resilience Strategies: Chapters 2–8 cover strengthening strategies like distraction, positive reappraisal, and expectation management; Chapters 9–11 address pitfalls like denial (09:18–11:59).Distraction Tactics: Healthy distraction (e.g., sports, learning new skills) shifts focus from crisis stress, while unhealthy “big D” distraction (e.g., substance use) numbs emotions (13:24–14:19).Positive Reappraisal: Reframing setbacks, like riot victims seeing opportunities in rebuilding, fosters long-term resilience (14:48–15:42).Expectation Management: Tempering optimism with realistic goals reduces disappointment and regulates emotions during uncertainty (16:10–17:33).Positive Self-Talk: Grounded, evidence-based affirmations (e.g., recalling past successes) boost confidence, unlike unrooted manifestation (18:02–19:45).Entrepreneurship Perception: The term “entrepreneur” should include everyday small business owners, not just high-profile figures like Elon Musk (20:15–22:35).Bo

Episode Summary: London is the world’s most traded real estate city, but its investment dominance isn’t guaranteed! In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke interviews Jace Tyrrell, CEO of Opportunity London, about attracting £100 billion in real estate, energy, and infrastructure investment. They discuss rising construction costs, sovereign risks, and AI’s impact on office spaces, plus opportunities from US university expansions. Discover how businesses can navigate high costs, leverage infrastructure projects, and capitalize on London’s dynamic market to drive growth. Tune in for expert insights and visit Opportunity.London to explore investment projects worth £100M–£1.5B!Key Discussion PointsLondon’s Investment Appeal: London remains the top global real estate market, driven by scale, a dynamic 10-million population, 300 languages, top universities, and a thousand-year-old legal system (06:19–07:11).Risks to Investment Hub Status: Rising inflation, cost of capital, and housing challenges threaten London’s edge; upcoming budget decisions will impact global investor confidence (00:58–01:28).High Construction Costs: Post-COVID, costs have risen 40–50%, outpacing asset values. Modern methods of construction (MMC) like digital printing and prefabrication can reduce costs (03:10–03:35).Infrastructure Investment Demand: Investors show strong interest in transport and energy projects, but need clarity on government stability to avoid sovereign risk from shifting policies (04:53–05:49).US University Expansion: Private US universities (e.g., MIT, Harvard) are eyeing London due to visa restrictions and funding cuts, creating opportunities for student housing and affordable real estate (08:03–09:29).AI’s Impact on Offices: AI reduces demand for junior white-collar roles, prompting businesses to design flexible, high-quality office spaces to balance productivity and engagement (09:58–12:06).London Investment Summit: Opportunity London hosts 300 investors to showcase 25 live projects worth £9.1B, fostering deals with public-private partners (12:30–13:22).Sovereign Risk Concerns: Long-term investors need assurance that political shifts won’t alter infrastructure or energy project commitments (05:21–05:49).Housing and Regeneration Needs: Affordable housing and high street regeneration require innovative financing

Episode SummaryUK employees are missing nearly two full working weeks a year due to sickness—9.4 days on average, the highest in over a decade!In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke speaks with Rachel Suff, Senior Wellbeing Advisor at the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), about their latest survey revealing drivers like mental ill health (41% of long-term absences) and stress (26% of short-term absences). They explore the post-pandemic rise and proactive strategies for businesses.Key Discussion PointsRising Absence Rates: UK employees averaged 9.4 sick days last year, up from 7.8 in 2023 and 5.8 pre-pandemic, equating to nearly two working weeks (00:58–01:27).Long-Term Absence Causes: Primarily driven by mental ill health (41%), back/neck pain injuries, and other long-term conditions like cancer (01:56–02:26).Short-Term Absence Drivers: Mainly minor illnesses (78%), with mental ill health (29%) and stress (26%) also significant, often scattered throughout the year (05:17–05:47).Mental Health Trends: Mental ill health has risen post-pandemic due to increased openness, global events, and life pressures like caring responsibilities; it fluctuates on a spectrum including anxiety, depression, and stress (03:23–04:47).Demographic Factors: Nearly 9 million people in the UK have long-term health conditions, exacerbated by an aging workforce more susceptible to disabilities (02:26–02:55).Data and Prevention: Organizations must collect absence data to identify risks, differentiate causes, and proactively manage both short- and long-term absences through supportive conversations (06:14–07:09).Manager Training Needs: Many small businesses lack HR support; good management principles like empathy and flexibility help spot issues early, with signposting to GPs for serious conditions (07:38–09:32).Health Benefits Impact: Providing affordable options like counseling, employee assistance programs, or health cash plans can reduce absences and is highly valued by employees (10:29–11:56).Stress Management Tools: Employers have a legal duty to prevent stress via HSE tools like risk assessments and management standards addressing demands, control, change, and relationships (12:24–14:18).First Steps for New Leaders: Gather health and absence data, review employee surveys, identify risks, trai

Is hybrid working stunting the growth of your youngest employees? Nearly half of 18–24-year-olds say it’s hurting their workplace relationships and mental health!In this episode of The Cashflow Show Podcast, host Clayton M. Coke interviews Natasha Devon, MBE, writer, broadcaster, and mental health activist, to explore new research from the Institution of Occupational Safety and Health (IOSH). Natasha unpacks why 48% of young workers struggle to build relationships and 17% report worsening mental health in hybrid setups, and how businesses can adapt.Learn how to redesign hybrid models to support young workers with structured feedback, mentoring, and collaboration opportunities, ensuring they thrive in today’s workplace.Tune in to discover practical strategies to boost engagement, retention, and mental well-being for the next generation of talent, and visit IOSH for actionable resources.Key Discussion PointsRise of Hybrid Working: Accelerated by COVID lockdowns, hybrid models benefit established workers but pose challenges for younger employees entering the workforce (01:19–02:13).Relationship Struggles: 48% of 18–24-year-olds find it hard to build workplace relationships due to limited face-to-face interaction in hybrid setups (02:39–03:07).Mentoring Gaps: Only 16% of entry-level staff receive regular mentoring, leaving young workers without critical guidance to learn the ropes (03:36–09:08).Mental Health Impact: 17% of young workers report worsened mental health, with 50% citing cost of living as a top stressor, compounded by isolation and lack of feedback (05:46–07:40).Solutions for Equity: Structured check-ins (desired by 45%), in-person mentoring, and face-to-face collaboration (wanted by 35%) can support young workers’ growth (04:27–14:44).Employer Mindset Shift: Open dialogue and anonymous feedback systems can address young workers’ needs, breaking from outdated top-down management styles (09:36–11:04).Cost of Living Concerns: Financial stress affects 50% of young workers; employers can help with solutions like subsidized transport or community partnerships (11:33–12:20).Collaboration Challenges: Hybrid setups scatter teams, but hot-desking or rented communal spaces can foster in-person collaboration (14:44–15:40).Key TakeawaysHybrid working, while beneficial for some, hinders young workers’ ab

Are you or your team struggling to embrace new skills at work? You’re not alone—40% of adults face a confidence dip when learning, with career optimism peaking at just 25!In this episode of The Cashflow Show Podcast, host Clayton M. Coke sits down with Professor Steve Peters, consultant psychiatrist and author of The Chimp Paradox, to unpack new research revealing why so many adults lose confidence in skill development.  Professor Peters explains the neuroscience behind this dip, how the brain’s risk-averse "Chimp" system holds us back, and how to unlock untapped potential for career growth.Discover practical strategies to overcome fear of failure, reframe self-perception, and foster a workplace culture that boosts confidence and innovation. Whether you’re a business leader or an employee, this episode offers actionable insights to thrive in today’s fast-evolving workplace.Key TakeawaysConfidence dips post-25 due to the brain’s shift to risk aversion, but this can be reversed by reframing failure and self-perception.Comparing yourself to others or perfectionism undermines confidence; focus on personal growth and realistic goals instead.Employers can unlock employee potential by fostering a culture of emotional skill-building and flexible learning opportunities.The Skills for Life campaign provides accessible resources to help adults and businesses upskill, from apprenticeships to online learning.Managing the "Chimp" brain through mindset shifts can lead to greater resilience, risk-taking, and career progression.Notable Quotes“Dealing with failure is a myth. What we’re really saying is I can’t deal with the consequences of failure, which is different. As adults, we can deal with anything.” – Professor Steve Peters (02:24)“If we keep comparing to others and to perfection, we naturally lose confidence because we always perceive others as better.” – Professor Steve Peters (03:20)“If I perceive myself as a proactive go-getter, my brain won’t let me sit back because it feels wrong.” – Professor Steve Peters (05:15)“One in three adults remain curious about their untapped potential. Couldn’t this do fantastic things for businesses and the economy?” – Clayton M. Coke (06:14)“Get yourself in a go

In this dynamic episode of The Cashflow Show, recorded live at Tech Show London 2025, host Clayton M. Coke sits down with Alex Cruz, former CEO of British Airways, now Vice-Chairman of Westjet, to explore the modernization of the travel industry. With 35 years of experience, Alex discusses how outdated systems, like 70-year-old reservation codes, clash with rising customer expectations shaped by digital-first businesses. He delves into the transformative potential of AI in addressing complex operational challenges, boosting revenues, and enhancing customer experiences, while emphasizing the need for a risk-averse industry to embrace experimentation and cultural change. Key Discussion PointsOutdated Systems: The travel industry relies on 70-year-old structures, like six-digit reservation codes, and aging IT systems that struggle to meet modern demands. Customer Expectations: Exposure to seamless digital apps has raised traveler expectations, creating pressure to modernize operations and baggage tracking. AI’s Dual Role: AI is being adopted for internal efficiencies (e.g., data analysis) and solving complex industry challenges, like crew scheduling and dynamic pricing. Revenue Impact: AI-driven pricing solutions can boost airline revenues by 5–10% without significantly affecting customers, leveraging price elasticity. Cultural Barriers: The risk-averse nature of the travel industry slows AI adoption, requiring a cultural shift toward experimentation and learning from failures. Future of AI: AI will reshape competition by enabling faster solution development, but businesses must ask smarter questions to maximize its value.Key TakeawaysThe travel industry’s legacy systems are a bottleneck, unable to keep pace with digital-first customer expectations. AI offers significant opportunities for operational efficiency and revenue growth, but its success depends on cultural openness to experimentation. Businesses must prioritize value generation, with AI delivering measurable results like 5–10% revenue increases through dynamic pricing. The human element—asking the right questions and fostering a learning culture—is critical to leveraging AI effectively. Over the next five years, early AI adopters in travel will gain a competitive edge by solving complex problems faster.Notable Quotes

In this engaging episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke is joined by Kitty McCormick, Head of Wealth at Santander UK, to explore the financial challenges and opportunities for the UK’s one million Self-Made high earners. Representing 14% of top earners, this group holds £40.7 billion in idle cash savings due to low financial confidence. Kitty discusses Santander’s push for government-backed financial education, the barriers faced by Self-Made individuals from lower socio-economic backgrounds, and how businesses and policymakers can empower this cohort for long-term financial success. Key Discussion PointsDefining Self-Made: Self-Made individuals are top 20% UK earners from less privileged backgrounds, often entering work or apprenticeships (44%) rather than university (25%). Idle Savings: The Self-Made hold £40,000 on average in cash reserves, totaling £40.7 billion, often due to a lack of financial literacy and confidence. Barriers to Confidence: Only 52% of Self-Made individuals discussed money growing up, compared to 74% of other high earners, limiting their investment knowledge. Financial Education Gap: Financial literacy is not mandated in UK schools or apprenticeships, creating a “lottery” for accessing financial knowledge. Santander’s Advocacy: Santander calls for financial education in apprenticeship programs, Open Finance data to target Self-Made support, and a campaign to demystify investing. Business Support: Santander’s Work Café initiative offers co-working spaces and events to support Self-Made entrepreneurs and professionals.Key TakeawaysThe Self-Made cohort’s £40.7 billion in idle savings highlights a critical need for financial education to unlock economic growth. A scarcity mindset and lack of early money conversations hinder Self-Made individuals from investing confidently. Apprenticeships are a key entry point for Self-Made success, but they lack integrated financial literacy programs. Santander’s push for government collaboration aims to democratize financial tools, ensuring background doesn’t limit opportunity. Businesses can play a role by offering practical support like co-working spaces and tailored financial guidance for Self-Made employees and en

In this fascinating episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke is joined by Helen Hardy, founder of Foudy’s, the world’s only official football retailer dedicated to women’s football. Helen shares her journey from a theatre background to launching Foudy’s in 2020, driven by the lack of accessibility to women’s football jerseys. The episode dives into the groundbreaking Missing Shirt campaign, a retro England women’s kit honoring overlooked Lionesses from 1984 to 2019. With proceeds supporting grassroots women’s football, Helen discusses the commercial viability of women’s sports, the challenges of entrepreneurship, and the cultural significance of this symbolic jersey. Key Discussion PointsFoudy’s Mission: Launched in 2020, Foudy’s aims to prove the commercial viability of women’s football by offering women’s jerseys 365 days a year, starting with WSL lettering rights. The Missing Shirt Campaign: A retro England women’s kit, designed with artist Hattie Crowther, features a blank crest with “Unsupported. Unaffiliated.” and honors players from 1984–2019. Historical Context: Pre-2019, England women’s players wore ill-fitting men’s kits, highlighting institutional barriers in women’s football. Grassroots Support: Proceeds from The Missing Shirt fund grassroots women’s football to ensure future generations have resources and visibility. Entrepreneurial Challenges: Helen overcame skepticism, secured Nike authentication, and rode the wave of women’s football’s growth, especially after England’s 2022 Euros win. Business Growth: Foudy’s leverages The Missing Shirt to give back, not for profit, while leading global sales of Lioness shirts during the 2025 Euros.Key TakeawaysWomen’s football has faced decades of underfunding and lack of proper kits, with The Missing Shirt symbolizing progress and past struggles. Foudy’s success proves the commercial potential of women’s sports, with global interest surging post-2022 Euros. Grassroots investment is critical to sustain women’s football’s growth across all levels of the pyramid. Entrepreneurship requires optimism, iterative growth, and persistence, as shown by Helen’s journey from a bedroom startup to Nike’s 23

In this insightful episode of The Cashflow Show Podcast, host Clayton M. Coke is joined by Claire Hawkins, Director of Corporate Affairs and Brand at Phoenix Group, to discuss the critical need for flexible working to support the UK’s 5.8 million unpaid carers. With 41% of working carers considering leaving their jobs due to inflexible policies, Claire highlights the risks to workforce stability, talent retention, and long-term financial security. The episode explores practical solutions, the role of leadership, and how businesses can adapt to modern demands to support carers and thrive.  Key Discussion Points:Scale of the Issue: The 2021 census revealed 5.8 million unpaid carers in the UK, with half juggling work, and 41% (600 daily) at risk of leaving without flexible working.  Economic and Workforce Impact: Losing skilled carers leads to costly recruitment, reduced productivity, and a looming pension crisis, especially for those aged 50–65.  Right to Flexible Working: Employees can request flexible arrangements from day one, including part-time work, remote options, or informal adjustments like time off for caregiving.  Disconnect in Policies: Over a third of carers have had flexible working requests denied, highlighting a gap between policy and employee experience that harms employer reputation.  Modern Work Models: The traditional 9-to-5 model is outdated; businesses must redesign roles to accommodate caregiving and leverage remote work possibilities.  Leadership’s Role: Visible, proactive leadership is key to fostering a carer-friendly culture, with Phoenix Group’s “Phoenix Flex” initiative as a model for starting with flexibility as the default.Key Takeaways:Without flexible working, businesses risk losing experienced talent, impacting productivity and increasing costs.  Carers, especially those in their 50s, face financial insecurity in retirement due to reduced earnings and pension savings.  Flexible working includes both formal (e.g., part-time schedules) and informal (e.g., short-term adjustments) arrangements tailored to carers’ needs.  The Carers Leave Act 2023, granting five days of unpaid leave, is a step forward, but broader cultural shifts are needed.  Leadership must mod

In Part 2 of this compelling episode of The Cashflow Show Podcast, host Clayton M. Coke sits down with Fiona Graham, Chief Operating Officer of Family Business UK, to explore the devastating impact of proposed inheritance tax reforms on family-owned businesses. Fiona shares her expertise on advocating for family businesses, the economic significance of the sector, and the urgent need for policy consultation to protect jobs and growth. From the potential loss of 208,000 jobs to a £1.9 billion fiscal hit to the Treasury, this episode uncovers the real consequences of these reforms and what can be done to address them. Key Discussion Points:Role of Family Business UK: Founded nearly 25 years ago, Family Business UK supports family-owned businesses by addressing unique challenges like succession planning and family disputes while advocating for tailored policies.  Inheritance Tax Reforms: Proposed changes will scale back long-standing tax reliefs, leaving family businesses with significant tax bills upon an owner’s death, threatening their survival.  Economic Impact: The reforms could lead to 208,000 job losses, a £15 billion reduction in economic activity, and a £1.9 billion fiscal loss to the Treasury.  Advocacy Strategy: Fiona emphasizes the power of direct voices from family business owners in influencing policymakers and highlights the need for urgent consultation.  Mid-Sized Business Forum: A government-supported initiative to focus on the “missing middle” of mid-sized businesses, many of which are family-owned, to drive UK economic growth.  Economic Contribution: Family businesses contribute £422 billion in tax receipts to the UK Exchequer, underscoring their critical role in the economy.Key Takeaways:Inheritance tax reforms pose a severe threat to family businesses, with no ability to plan for unexpected owner deaths.  The economic fallout includes significant job losses, reduced growth, and a net loss to the Treasury, making the policy counterproductive.  Policymakers need to hear directly from family business owners to understand the real-world impact of these changes.  Family businesses are the backbone of the UK economy, contributing substantially to tax receipts and local communities.  

In this compelling episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke sits down with Steve Rigby, co-CEO of Rigby Group PLC and Chair of Family Business UK, to unpack the alarming consequences of proposed inheritance tax reforms. With a new Family Business UK report predicting 208,000 job losses and a £15 billion drop in economic activity, Steve reveals why these changes threaten the backbone of the UK economy—family businesses. From their critical role in regional economies to strategies for resilience, this episode is a must-listen for business owners and policymakers navigating an uncertain future.Key Discussion Points: Rigby Group & Family Business UK: Steve shares insights into Rigby Group’s 50-year legacy as a second-generation tech business and his role as Chair of Family Business UK, advocating for the sector’s 4.7 million jobs and £985 billion economic contribution in 2023. Inheritance Tax Reforms: A Family Business UK and CBI Economics survey of 4,000 businesses highlights the devastating impact of proposed changes to business property relief (BPR) and agricultural property relief (APR), projecting 208,000 job losses and £15 billion in economic losses. Regional Impact: The reforms disproportionately affect regions like Cornwall and the Northeast, where family businesses are major employers in economically challenged areas. Anti-Growth Measures: Steve discusses how the reforms force businesses to plan for uncertain tax liabilities, stifling investment, acquisitions, and job creation. Sector-Specific Effects: Industries like construction, hospitality, and retail face significant risks, with businesses hoarding cash due to economic uncertainty. Resilience Strategies: Steve emphasizes the importance of family businesses communicating internally and leveraging networks like Family Business UK to navigate these challenges.Key Takeaways: Family businesses, contributing £985 billion to the UK economy in 2023, are vital to national and regional prosperity but face existential threats from inheritance tax reforms. The proposed changes to BPR and APR could lead to a £15 billion economic hit and 208,000 job losses, particularly in vulnerable regions like Cornwall and the Northeast. Businesses are forced into anti-growth measures, saving cash to cover future tax liabilities instead of investing in growth, acquisit

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Cashflow Show, host Clayton M. Coke welcomes Eric Johnson, CEO of SurveyMonkey, to discuss the growing distrust of AI among UK business leaders and the launch of SurveyMonkey’s Trust Centre. With 81% of UK leaders sceptical about AI’s decision-making and 79% concerned about biased outcomes, Eric shares insights from a recent SurveyMonkey report highlighting data privacy challenges, GDPR compliance gaps, and the evolving role of AI in security. Learn how businesses can navigate these issues, leverage transparency as a competitive advantage, and use the Trust Centre to strengthen data protection strategies.Key Discussion Points: AI Distrust in the UK: 81% of UK business leaders doubt AI’s ability to make fully informed decisions, and 79% fear biased or unethical outcomes, reflecting widespread concerns about AI reliability. GDPR Compliance Gaps: Despite 95% of businesses believing they meet GDPR requirements, over half have faced data breaches, and 34% have received fines or warnings since GDPR’s introduction in 2018. SurveyMonkey Trust Centre: Launched to provide transparency on data usage, security protocols, and compliance (e.g., GDPR, ISO 27001), the Trust Centre aims to guide businesses in navigating data privacy. Budget Constraints for Small Businesses: 33% of small firms cite limited budgets as a barrier to improving security, highlighting the need for cost-effective solutions. AI’s Role in Security: AI is evolving from monitoring tools to proactive agents that can enhance data security, offering potential benefits despite current skepticism. Transparency as a Competitive Edge: Clear, accessible documentation on data handling can build trust and differentiate brands in a privacy-conscious market.Key Takeaways: Compliance with GDPR is a baseline, but ongoing monitoring and investment are critical to avoid breaches and fines. AI can be a powerful tool for enhancing data security, but businesses must prioritize transparency to address distrust. The SurveyMonkey Trust Centre offers a model for businesses to share privacy practices, fostering trust with customers and partners. Small businesses can leverage affordable AI-driven tools to monitor and improve data security without significant investment.Notable Quotes: