? Watch the full episode on SubstackDumi Siwo’s journey is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. Moving from Zambia to the UK at the age of 13, he brought with him a deep love for storytelling and visual arts.Despite facing early challenges in breaking into the job market, Dumi carved out his own space in the entertainment industry by capturing the vibrant energy of club nights and collaborating with artists and DJs.As the founder of Firmative, Dumi has partnered with major record labels like Atlantic Records and collaborated with big names, including Anne-Marie, Ed Sheeran, James Blunt, Ella Henderson, Rita Ora, and many more.? Dumi’s book recommendations1️⃣ Principles by Ray Dalio — An influential book about the importance of understanding one’s own values and principles. Dumi highlights how this book taught him about vulnerability, seeking truth, and redefining success. It builds on the equation of reality, big dreams, and relentless effort to achieve your goals.2️⃣ Think and Grow Rich by Napoleon Hill — A classic in personal development literature, this book explores the power of thought and the principles of success. Dumi appreciates how many of the principles align with those in Principles by Ray Dalio, reinforcing ideas about ambition, mindset, and perseverance.3️⃣ The Ride of a Lifetime by Bob Iger — This memoir offers insights into leadership and decision-making from his time as CEO of The Walt Disney Company. Dumi finds inspiration in how Iger applied core principles to overcome challenges and drive growth, providing real-world examples of effective leadership.4️⃣ Atomic Habits by James Clear — This book explores the science of habit formation and how small changes can lead to remarkable results. Dumi values the practical strategies offered for building good habits and breaking bad ones, which he applies to his daily routine and pursuit of personal and professional goals. Also the first Millennial Masters Book Club recommendation.In this episode we cover:00:00 Introduction to Dumi Siwo04:17 The Spark of Creativity: Early Filmmaking09:10 Navigating University: The Path to TV and Film12:23 Finding Opportunity: Love Dough and Early Career13:52 Building Firmative: The Journey of Growth19:08 Resilience and Overcoming Challenges21:16 Leadership and Team Dynamics25:45 The Role of Mentorship in Personal Growth29:32 The Art of Deep Conversations31:25 Finding Inner Confidence and Power33:06 The Role of Fitness in Personal Growth34:07 Influential Books and Their Impact36:16 Defining Big Dreams and Personal Missions38:18 The Value of Time and Family39:29 Sacrifices on the Entrepreneurial Journey40:39 Lessons Over Regrets42:28 The Future of Entertainment and Media44:32 Navigating Social Media as a Parent45:58 The Importance of Physical Connections49:48 Working with Talented Artists? To sponsor the Millennial Masters podcast, get in touch on promo@millennialmasters.net.?️ Know someone who I should interview for the podcast? Email me on daniel@millennialmasters.net Get full access to Millennial Masters at millennialmasters.net/subscribe

Millennial Masters

How turning passion into a career builds success, and why resilience is key ? | Dumi Siwo (Firmative)

? Watch the episode on SubstackWhat does it take to lead with integrity in a rapidly evolving world? From her early days in law to navigating the cultural challenges of moving halfway across the world, Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana has carved a unique path in leadership and media regulation.As CEO of Impress, the UK’s independent press regulator, Lexie is on the frontlines of tackling some of the biggest challenges in the media and information landscape — from navigating hybrid workforces to redefining what diversity and ethical leadership mean in today’s organisations.? Find Lexie on LinkedinLearn from the best in business and beyond — subscribe to Millennial Masters ✨Some takeaways from Lexie’s interview:1️⃣ Authentic leadership is a mustTrue leadership isn’t about mimicking others — it’s about knowing your unique strengths and aligning them with your organisation’s needs.2️⃣ Adapting to change is survivalHybrid working, shifting cultures, and a fast-evolving media landscape demand constant listening and experimenting to find what works.3️⃣ Diversity takes effortReal inclusion comes from proactively building networks and recruiting intentionally, not just ticking boxes.4️⃣ AI regulation is urgentThe rise of generative AI brings both opportunities and risks. Acting now to address misinformation and ethical design is non-negotiable.5️⃣ Prioritise balanceHigh-pressure roles require discipline. Rest, wellness, and intentional relationships aren’t just optional — they fuel long-term success.In this episode we cover:00:00 Introduction to Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana04:00 The Journey to Law and Media Regulation05:55 Cultural Adaptation: From New Zealand to the UK11:12 Leadership Training: A Shift in Mindset14:09 Redefining Leadership: From Specialist to Leader19:17 Learning Leadership: Resources and Conversations22:18 Finding Your Tribe: Networking in a New Era24:57 Adapting Leadership in a Hybrid World29:45 Diversity Beyond Tick-Boxing: Authentic Inclusion33:53 Overcoming Challenges: Building Resilience37:54 Leadership Styles: Male vs Female CEOs41:58 Wellbeing Practices for CEOs45:47 Finding Balance in a Demanding Role49:11 Sacrifices on the Path to Leadership52:33 Challenges in Media Regulation58:14 The Responsibility of Platforms01:01:17 Regulating AI in Media01:05:33 The UK's Position in Global Regulation? To sponsor the Millennial Masters podcast, get in touch on promo@millennialmasters.net.?️ Know someone who I should interview for the podcast? Email me on daniel@millennialmasters.net Get full access to Millennial Masters at millennialmasters.net/subscribe

Why embracing change is the secret to thriving as a modern leader ⚖️ | Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana (Impress)

Subscribe on MillennialMasters.Net and watch the full episode video.William Stokes is an entrepreneur who shifted from engineering in the oil and gas industry to revolutionising regional co-working spaces with Co-Space. Starting his journey by converting commercial buildings into residential units, William saw an opportunity to create design-led workspaces outside of London — with three live locations and 20 in the pipeline. As co-founder of Co-Space, he’s reshaping how and where we work by focusing on community, exceptional design, and regional growth.Some takeaways from William’s interview:1️⃣ Find a business partner who complements your skillsTeam up with someone whose strengths balance out your weaknesses. William says that a solid partnership with complementary skills is the secret sauce to tackling challenges and smashing business goals together.2️⃣ Embrace calculated risks and manage them carefullyDon’t shy away from taking risks, but make sure they’re smart ones. William said it’s important to size up potential pitfalls and having a game plan — especially in the property world.3️⃣ Sacrifice now to level up laterBe prepared to give up some short-term comforts for long-term gains. William believes that putting in the graft today sets you up for bigger wins tomorrow.4️⃣ Enjoy the journey and celebrate the winsDon’t get so caught up in the hustle that you forget to have fun. William reminds us to appreciate the process, celebrate your milestones, and enjoy the ride along the way.5️⃣ Build genuine relationships without expecting returnsInvest in your network by helping others out — just because you can. William believes that authentic connections often lead to unexpected opportunities down the line.In this episode we cover:00:00 William Stokes Introduction03:43 From Engineering to Property: A Journey of Discovery05:46 WeWork: From Inspiration to Proof of Concept07:57 Differentiating Co-Space: Design and Service09:58 Location Strategy: Choosing the Right Markets12:00 The Heart of Co-Space: Stevenage13:08 Future Growth: Scaling Co-Space15:04 Timing, Luck, and Hustle: The Recipe for Success16:49 Building Connections: The Art of Networking18:29 Finding the Right Business Partner21:52 Hiring for Success: The First Employees23:53 The Value of Self-Education25:38 Stepping Back: Focusing on the Big Picture27:46 Encouraging Initiative: Empowering the Team29:45 Maintaining Focus: Routines and Habits31:54 Balancing Work and Personal Life33:27 Maximizing Productivity Through Time Management34:51 Transforming ADHD into an Entrepreneurial Superpower36:58 Leading with Empathy and Flexibility39:26 Calculating Risks in Entrepreneurship41:59 Navigating the Future of Remote Work45:00 Debunking Get-Rich-Quick Schemes in Property Investment47:54 Essential Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs50:44 Influential Books and Their Impact52:58 Finding Inspiration in Life and Business54:53 The Sacrifices of Entrepreneurship56:35 Advice for New Entrepreneurs58:45 Exploring Global Perspectives and Opportunities01:01:51 The UK's Business Climate and Future Challenges Get full access to Millennial Masters at millennialmasters.net/subscribe

Why today’s sacrifice builds tomorrow’s success, and how to enjoy the ride ? | William Stokes (Co-Space)

Subscribe on MillennialMasters.Net and watch the full episode video.Peter Watson is a serial entrepreneur who’s been in the game since he was 16. Over the years, he’s built, scaled and exited businesses across multiple industries, using his knack for marketing, smart investments, and turning challenges like ADHD into superpowers. Peter’s all about embracing tech, especially AI, and helping millennials shake up traditional business models while making their own mark.Some takeaways from Peter’s interview:1️⃣ Risk-taking is essential, especially when you’re young: Take big risks before major life commitments; the worst that can happen is that you start again.2️⃣ Self-fund and reinvest for sustainable growth: Peter advocates for funding his ventures internally, allowing him full control and flexibility in decision-making.3️⃣ Focus on ‘boomer businesses’ ripe for modernisation: Look for industries where traditional models dominate, then disrupt them with new-age approaches and tech.4️⃣ Hire globally to get the best talent: If you’re starting today, go fully remote to access a global talent pool – and don’t be limited by your local market.5️⃣ Use neurodiversity as your edge: Turn what others see as a setback into your superpower. Peter uses ADHD to fuel creativity and energy in his businesses.6️⃣ Job hop with purpose: Forget the old “stay in one job” mindset. Peter says millennials are right to move around, because that’s how you find growth and better opportunities.7️⃣ Chase freedom, not just cash: Peter’s goal isn’t just money — it’s the ability to live and work on his own terms. Prioritise freedom in your hustle.In this episode, we cover:00:00 Introduction to Peter Watson03:39 Early Entrepreneurial Journey06:23 University Ventures and Growth08:06 Business Expansion and Global Perspective10:27 Investment Strategies and Business Criteria13:51 Exiting Businesses and Growth Mindset17:36 Financial Discipline and Cash Management24:25 Cultural Reflections: UK vs Dubai38:09 The Power of Partnership in Business44:15 The Love of the Game: Entrepreneurship as Sport47:49 Hiring Your First Employee: Key Considerations50:44 Decoupling from Founder Reliance52:49 Millennials and Job Hopping: A New Reality57:04 Taking Risks Before Commitments01:00:50 Going All In vs. Side Hustles01:02:49 The Future of Marketing: AI's Role01:04:58 Understanding Crypto: A Double-Edged Sword01:12:40 Personal Routines for Entrepreneurial Success01:16:17 Embracing Neurodiversity as a Strength01:20:59 The Importance of Being Present01:23:33 Social Media's Impact on Mental Health01:25:22 Managing the Next Generation01:26:26 Legacy and the Pursuit of Happiness01:28:20 Freedom Over Wealth01:31:34 Remote Work vs. Office Culture01:35:25 Peter's Book Recommendations Get full access to Millennial Masters at millennialmasters.net/subscribe

How to win at adult Monopoly, and why most people won’t dare ? | Peter Watson (Featured Group)

Millennial Masters started with a simple question: What does it really take to build something that lasts? After 14 years of the startup grind and plenty of hard lessons along the way, I wanted to create a space where millennial founders, leaders, and entrepreneurs could share their journeys — the real ones, with all the wins, losses, and everything in between.This podcast and newsletter is for anyone looking to skip the fluff and get straight to the actionable stuff. Every week, I sit down with the people who’ve been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale, giving you honest insights that can truly move the needle. Reading this and haven’t subscribed? Don’t miss out — pop your email in to stay updated ?Coming up from Millennial Masters ✨* New Millennial Masters podcast episodes ? ? drop on Sunday mornings. You’ll get the full video on the website (first dibs in your inbox), and after this intro, you’ll be able to find the audio versions on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube too (don’t worry, I’ll share the links when the first episode arrives).* On Wednesday mornings, the Book Club ? brings you useful, bite-sized takeaways from classic and new business books, so you get a head start on what really matters in those pages. This will come straight to your inbox, starting with a must-know hack to read a book a week — in under two hours!* Starting soon, I’ll be attending some of the most exciting events to connect with innovators and thought leaders, bringing you the latest insights and stories from the front lines. Check out my Events Agenda ?️ to see what’s coming up.* But I’m not stopping at content. I’m building a private WhatsApp community ? just for paid subscribers. Whether you’re seeking feedback on a new idea, advice on scaling your business, or a no-judgment space for open conversations about entrepreneurship and career growth, this is the place for you.* I’m also excited to start hosting exclusive in-person events and meet-ups to bring this community together in 2025. It’s about connecting, learning, and growing in real time, with people who truly get it.Know an inspiring founder or entrepreneur who should join the conversation? I’m always on the lookout for bold stories and fresh perspectives. Drop me a line — I’d love to hear from you!Ready to get started? This is where the journey begins. ?P.S.: Please forward this email to a friend who’d benefit from the insights — it would really help. Get full access to Millennial Masters at millennialmasters.net/subscribe

Welcome to Millennial Masters: For the bold, the ambitious, and the realists ?

Real talk, real tips. Tune in for insights from millennial entrepreneurs and leaders on business, productivity, and personal growth you can use today. millennialmasters.net

hubhopper

Millennial Masters

hubhopper