Behind The Future

• Lorna Bladen: How I Help Young People Start Their Own Businesses

  In this episode, we sit down with Lorna Blaydon, the Chief Marketing Officer at Enterprise Nation, to explore how young people can access incredible opportunities and grow their own businesses. Lorna shares her unique journey—from university days discovering her passion for people and business psychology, to navigating internships, early career challenges, and eventually becoming CMO of a dynamic, fast-moving company.Throughout the conversation, Lorna dives into the importance of building your network, using your connections strategically, and standing out when opportunities aren’t always advertised. She reflects on the lessons she’s learned over 15 years in marketing, the value of practical experience over purely academic knowledge, and why work-life balance is key to thriving creatively and professionally.If you’re a student or young professional curious about entrepreneurship, marketing, or simply how to navigate your first steps in business, this episode is packed with actionable insights, relatable stories, and inspiration. Lorna also discusses how Enterprise Nation supports early-stage founders through innovative campaigns and partnerships with companies like Vodafone and TikTok Shop, giving young people a real platform to shine.Tune in to hear how she turned challenges into opportunities, why being proactive can make all the difference, and how you too can take control of your career journey. Whether you’re interested in startups, marketing, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this episode will leave you motivated and ready to take the next step.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Alice PenningtonGuest: Lorna Bladenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lornabladen/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

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• FUTURE UNPLUGGED: Meet The Founder

  In this special bonus episode of Behind the Future Podcast, meet Becky, the founder of Aspiration Digital, as she shares her journey from discovering digital marketing to creating a platform that inspires thousands of students. Aspiration Digital hosts events and workshops to give young people real insight into careers in marketing, tech, AI, creative industries, and entrepreneurship.Becky discusses how her own school experiences inspired her to bridge the gap between education and the working world. From hosting events to launching a podcast that reaches students beyond the room, she explains how Aspiration Digital shows there’s no single path to success. She also shares the challenges of finding sponsors, curating speakers, and scaling events while staying true to her mission.Throughout the episode, Becky highlights inspiring stories of students whose futures have been shaped by Aspiration Digital, proving how guidance and exposure can spark ambition and open doors.If you’re curious about digital careers, entrepreneurship, or creating opportunities for the next generation, this episode is full of actionable insights and motivational takeaways from Becky’s journey.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Jessica Day & Nina FindlayGuest: Becky Simmshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/beckyreflectdigital/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

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• Steve Price: What I Wish I Knew When I Was 17

  Ever felt like school just isn’t your thing? You’re not alone. In this episode of Behind the Future, Steve Price shares his story of how he went from being an average student to becoming a Creative Director, all thanks to curiosity, hustle, and a love for drawing. As he says, “I wasn’t exceptional at school, but I could draw,” and that small talent changed everything.Steve walks us through his journey, from his amazing art teacher spotting his potential to filling countless sketchbooks with ideas that shaped his creative skills. He explains how exploring, experimenting, and sometimes breaking the rules helped him figure out what he really wanted to do, and how you can do the same. If you’ve ever wondered what creative careers actually look like, this episode is full of honest advice, funny stories, and real-life tips about getting started in the creative world.He talks about his first jobs, how networking and following up helped him succeed, and why self-doubt can sometimes be a good thing. He also shares his thoughts on AI, creativity, and why passion matters more than perfect grades. Steve’s experience shows that there’s no single path to success, and that even if school doesn’t recognise your talents, you can still turn your skills into a career.If you’re a student curious about creative careers, dreaming of design, media, or advertising, or just wondering how to turn your hobbies into something bigger, this episode is for you. Listen to Steve Price explain how curiosity, sketchbooks, and a little bit of rule-breaking helped him build his dream career, and get inspired to start your own journey.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Nina FindlayGuest: Steve Pricehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/thesteveprice/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

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• Lisa Goodchild: "Don’t be down from a no. Just keep asking"

  In this episode, Lisa Goodchild shares her insights on empowering students through real-world industry experience and hands-on learning. Lisa dives into how exposing young people to workplaces like TikTok, Google, and Spotify gives them practical skills, leadership opportunities, and a glimpse into potential career paths. She explains why traditional education can sometimes feel like a “tick-box” exercise and how students thrive when they connect their learning to things they are passionate about, from music and film to sustainability and technology.Lisa also highlights the importance of building networks, taking chances, and staying persistent, sharing stories of young people who have turned opportunities into incredible career growth. She discusses how teachers can learn from industry too, bringing fresh ideas and techniques into schools, which creates a cycle of inspiration and empowerment for students. From creating events that give students exposure to top companies, to mentoring and encouraging confidence in asking questions and chasing opportunities, Lisa offers a roadmap for how young people can take charge of their futures.Throughout the episode, Lisa reflects on her own journey, balancing career growth with wellbeing, and emphasises the power of resilience, curiosity, and collaboration. She also provides practical advice on spotting opportunities, making connections, and navigating setbacks without giving up. This episode is perfect for students, educators, and anyone interested in discovering how industry experience can unlock potential and prepare young people for the rapidly evolving world of work.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & Jessica Day Guest: Lisa Goodchildhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/lisagoodchild/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

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• Joe Seddon: How I Get Students Into Oxford and Cambridge

  In this episode, Joe Seddon reveals how he gets students into Oxford and Cambridge, helping talented young people overcome the barriers that often hold them back. Growing up in a small town in Yorkshire, Joe didn’t have access to the networks, guidance, or resources that many students take for granted. Despite this, he secured a place at Oxford University and immediately knew he wanted to create opportunities for others to do the same.Joe is the founder and CEO of Zero Gravity, a tech platform designed to identify and support students from low-income backgrounds, giving them the tools and mentorship they need to reach the country’s top universities and careers. From starting Zero Gravity straight out of university in his bedroom to building a thriving network of mentors and students, Joe shares the real story behind turning ambition into impact.Throughout the episode, Joe talks about the obstacles he faced, from teaching himself to code to launching a startup without a big budget, and the social barriers of pursuing an unconventional path. He also shares inspiring stories of students who, through Zero Gravity, gained the confidence, guidance, and support to secure places at Oxford and Cambridge.Whether you’re a student dreaming big, a parent supporting your child, or simply curious about how talent can be recognised and nurtured, this episode is packed with insights and actionable advice. Joe’s journey shows how determination, creativity, and the right support can help get students into Oxford and Cambridge, proving that top-tier education is achievable—no matter your background.Behind the Future is a podcast for the next generation of digital talent, offering weekly interviews, real-world insights and career advice. Subscribe for more conversations like this, and follow us on TikTok and Instagram @aspirationdigital.Hosts: Becky Simms & NIna FindlayGuest: Joe Seddonhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joeseddon/Would you like to see an Aspiration Digital event near you? Let us know by registering your interest here! https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScV9Rg8QzZdtsauF5B7YURVFpK48wWrKZCIE6uCaeiEBFUZEA/viewform

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