Behind The Future

In this episode of Behind the Future, we sit down with Holly, the Head of Growth at a global agency, to discuss how she built a successful marketing career after originally feeling like school didn't suit her. If you are a student in Year 12 or 13 and aren't sure if university is the right path, or if you feel pressured by parents to choose a specific degree, Holly’s journey offers the perfect perspective on finding your own lane.We dive deep into the world of performance marketing and PPC (Pay-Per-Click). Holly explains how she transitioned from studying Event Management to falling in love with the psychology behind data. She shares how she overcame a fear of maths to use data as a tool for understanding human behaviour, eventually leading her to manage global teams.For students looking for their first breakthrough, Holly provides invaluable advice on:- Acing your first interview: Why being authentic and admitting what you don't know can actually make you more likeable.- The Power of AI: How to use tools like Gemini to research companies, practice interview questions, and tailor your CV.- Agency vs. In-house: The benefits of starting in an agency to gain exposure to different industries, from B2B software to charities.Transferable Skills: Why degrees in subjects like History or Geography are highly valued in a marketing career due to the research and attention to detail they require.Whether you're interested in the creative side of messaging or the technical side of data analysis, this episode proves that there is no single "right" way to enter the digital industry. Join us as we explore how to turn curiosity into a professional 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 & Dylan JohnsonGuest: Holly YoungWould 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

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 DouglasGuest: Thomas RedgroveWould 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

In this episode of Behind the Future, we explore how students can build real skills while studying with Gori Yahaya, founder of Upskill and an expert in practical learning and career development. Gori shares his journey from starting small local projects to working with global organisations like Google, offering students a practical guide to developing the skills that matter in the real world.Listeners will discover how to move from being a generalist in your first role to developing specialist skills that set you apart in the job market. Gori explains the importance of curiosity, creativity, and hands-on experience, including how to take initiative, experiment with projects, and create real work examples to showcase in applications and interviews. He also shares actionable tips on using platforms like LinkedIn to build a professional network, connect with mentors, and gain visibility, even as a student.Gori highlights the value of practical experience outside the classroom, from small personal projects to international opportunities, and explains how these experiences help students stand out in competitive fields like tech, digital marketing, and AI. He discusses challenges such as balancing study with real-world projects, adapting to different environments, and building confidence in your abilities, showing how these early experiences shape long-term career success.Whether you’re a student looking to develop employable skills, a parent supporting career exploration, or simply curious about how to make the most of your studies, this episode is packed with advice and insights to help you understand how to build real skills while studying.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 DayGuest: Gori YahayaWould 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

Start the new year inspired with this special Behind the Future episode, featuring the very best moments from 2025. From students shaping the future of tech to entrepreneurs, creators, and innovators making an impact, this episode brings together stories, insights, and advice to help you start 2026 ahead.We’ve pulled together the most inspiring conversations from the past year—covering creativity, entrepreneurship, digital innovation, and personal growth. Whether you’re curious about tech, marketing, or making your mark in the world, this episode is packed with motivation, practical tips, and fresh perspectives to guide your journey.Tune in and discover how determination, curiosity, and creativity can open doors, spark ideas, and help you take bold steps into the year ahead.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.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

In this inspiring episode of Behind the Future, host Becky Sims is joined by co-host Daisy, a third-year Digital Marketing student, and special guest James, a seasoned marketing professional. Together, they explore what it takes for students to break into the world of marketing and start building a successful career.James shares his journey from early curiosity in creative and digital projects to navigating the evolving marketing landscape. He talks about the importance of taking initiative, experimenting with skills like photography, graphic design, and using AI tools, and how self-driven projects can make a student stand out. Becky and Daisy dig into James’ advice on networking, spotting opportunities, and staying aware of industry trends, practical tips that students can start applying today.From understanding how brands communicate, to experimenting with campaigns, to reflecting on what resonates personally, James’ story is packed with actionable insights. He also explains how showing curiosity, embracing small challenges, and building experience early can shape the path to a rewarding career in marketing.This episode is a must-listen for students exploring their first steps in marketing, educators supporting early talent, and anyone looking for inspiration on how to turn ambition into opportunity. James’ insights are a powerful reminder that learning by doing, being curious, and showing up can truly change the trajectory of a career.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 & Zachary TheobaldGuest: James BavingtonWould 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

In this inspiring episode of Behind the Future, host Becky Sims is joined once again by co-host Daisy, a third-year Digital Marketing student based in Leeds. Together, they welcome their youngest guest to date: Toby, a junior software developer whose journey into tech began at Aspiration Digital.Toby shares how attending the London Aspiration Digital event at just 17 became the catalyst for his entire career, from discovering where his skills fit, to learning the power of networking, to eventually meeting the person who would become his boss. Becky and Daisy dig into Toby’s story, exploring how he prepared for the event, how he built confidence as an introverted young person, and the small decisions that helped him stand out in the room.From early coding adventures to entering competitions, following his curiosity, and stepping bravely into networking events filled with experienced professionals, Toby’s story is a brilliant example of what happens when ambition meets opportunity.A must-listen for young people exploring their path, educators supporting early talent, and anyone who needs a reminder of why showing up, with a smile, really does change everything.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 & Daisy AllingstoneGuest: Toby Brown 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

In this episode of Behind the Future, recorded at Newcastle University during one of our Aspiration Digital events, host Becky Sims is joined by special co-host Lucia, a computer science student and Newcastle University intern, as they dive into the inspiring journey of Andrew and Pete, the founders of Atomic. From starting their first small ventures at university to creating one of the most successful communities for small business owners, Andrew and Pete share the highs, lows, and lessons learned along the way.Listeners will hear how the duo turned early challenges, like motivational text messages and T-shirts, into a thriving marketing consultancy and eventually launched their signature community platform. They discuss the importance of perseverance in business, the power of building a loyal community, and how combining tech skills with social marketing strategies can create a lasting impact. Andrew and Pete also reveal how their Atomic conference grew from 350 attendees to over 1,200, even navigating the challenges of running events during a global pandemic.This episode is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, students, and anyone looking to scale their business. From learning how to price services confidently to understanding audience feedback and the critical role of fostering community engagement, Andrew and Pete demonstrate how focus, consistency, and listening to your audience are key to long-term success.Whether you’re curious about starting a business, building meaningful networks, or simply want to be inspired by the journey of two entrepreneurs who defied the odds, this episode of Behind the Future, recorded live at Newcastle University, offers actionable advice, storytelling, and motivation. Tune in to discover how communities drive growth, why perseverance matters, and the lessons you can apply to your own entrepreneurial 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 & Lucia Onofre CandelaGuest: Andrew Pickering & Pete GartlandWould 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

In the “Future Unplugged: Come Behind the Scenes” bonus episode of Behind the Future, listeners get an insider look at what goes on behind the camera. With roles swapped, the hosts step back while Chris, Erin, and Lulu reveal the work that makes the podcast happen - covering camera setup, lighting, audio, editing, and scheduling. They explain how tools like Otter AI for live transcripts and AutoPod for editing streamline production and keep episodes smooth.Student co-host Daisy shares her experience as a guest, reflecting on the nerves and excitement of interviewing industry professionals and the confidence-building skills gained through networking and content creation. The team also discusses guest prep, social clip creation, and distributing episodes across platforms like Spotify, YouTube, and Instagram, highlighting how they make content engaging and accessible for students.Ultimately, the episode celebrates the crucial behind-the-scenes team, showcasing the effort, technology, and collaboration that bring Behind the Future to life.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 & Daisy AllingstoneGuests: Chris Male & Erin BaxterWould 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

In this episode, we explore how students are already shaping the future of tech, with insights from Lella, Head of IBM’s Global Student Strategy. From coding at just eight years old to leading global projects that connect students with industry leaders, Lella’s journey proves that you don’t need decades of experience to make a real difference in technology.She shares how her early curiosity for coding, combined with entering hackathons and creating student-led projects, led her to work with IBM to bridge the gap between students and professionals worldwide. You’ll hear how she turned challenges like limited access to computer science into opportunities, including running a global hackathon with UNESCO and building a worldwide student community that continues to inspire innovation.Whether you’re a student curious about tech, creativity, or making an impact, this episode will leave you feeling motivated and empowered. Lella’s story shows that the future of tech isn’t just about coding, it’s about curiosity, courage, and using your voice to drive change, all with the support of IBM’s global initiatives.Tune in and discover how you, as a student, can start shaping the future of tech with IBM today.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 & Zachary TheobaldGuest: Lella HalloumWould 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

In this episode of Behind the Future, Amber, founder of She Bytes Back, shares her journey as a woman in tech. From studying economics and working in finance to discovering coding during the pandemic, Amber reveals how she navigated a male-dominated industry and built a supportive community for ambitious women in tech.Amber talks about the challenges of breaking into tech without a traditional background, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the importance of psychological safety and peer support. She explains how teaching others and creating resources helped her grow her skills and confidence while also empowering other women to thrive in tech.This episode is perfect for students and aspiring coders curious about how to find their place in tech, build confidence, and make meaningful connections in STEM. Amber shares practical tips for learning new skills, leveraging mentorship, and navigating the challenges of remote work and onboarding in technical roles.Whether you’re exploring coding for the first time or looking for inspiration to thrive in a competitive environment, Amber’s story offers actionable advice and insights into how women can take charge, break barriers, and shape the future of tech. Tune in to discover the power of community, perseverance, and curiosity in building a successful career as a woman in tech.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: Amber ShandWould 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