The Secret to Turning a Side Hustle into a Digital Brand

In this episode of Behind the Future, we’re hanging out with Thomas Redgrove, the founder of Thomas Cookie Co, to find out how he turned a massive sweet tooth into a legendary business. If you’re a student thinking about digital careers, Thomas’s story is the ultimate proof that you don’t need a boring office job to be successful. He shares how he went from the Navy to working "lost" in sales roles before finally taking the leap to bake the best cookies and cookie cups you’ve ever tasted.

Thomas breaks down how digital careers are actually built on being adaptable. When the world changed in 2020, he didn't quit; he pivoted, using Shopify and Facebook ads to move his business from 95% physical stalls to a massive online operation. For anyone interested in content creation, Thomas explains the logic behind his viral s’mores video that hit 1.2 million views. He reveals that "content is number one" and shows how a small-scale brand can reach a global audience with the right digital strategy.

This conversation is loaded with real-talk for the 16–17 age group. Thomas gets honest about "feeling the fear" when hiring staff or buying expensive gear, and why he views every mistake as a massive lesson. Whether you want to master e-commerce, run a viral social media account, or just turn what you love into a career, this episode is your blueprint for the future.

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 & Sophie-Kim Douglas

Guest: Thomas Redgrove

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