Founded & Grounded

UK's No.2 ranked startup podcast. We bring you the honest realities of startup life, from early-stage founders who are only a couple of steps ahead.

Virtually There: How Good Things Come to Businesses That Wait

S3 E2 • Oct 18, 2021 • 38 mins

In this episode, guest Edgar Thomas shares his journey of validating and launching a specialty tea business in the UK. The team discusses handling business pivots, maintaining a long-term mindset, and managing rapid growth in startups. They also discuss the importance of co-founders and support networks, future plans for Virtually There, and promoting entrepreneurship among youth.

Key Points

Edgar Thomas, co-founder of Canton Tea and Virtually There, emphasized the importance of having a product or service you are passionate about and believes that if you have a great product, your business should ultimately succeed.
The growth of Virtually There was significantly accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, reflecting the increasing trend of flexible work environments and the rise of new businesses seeking virtual office support.
Edgar and his business partner Jack launched a Young Entrepreneur Scheme to give back to the community, offering mentorship and practical support to help the next generation of entrepreneurs.

Speakers

Andrew Parsonage

Host • 26%

Ollie Collard

Host • 27%

Edgar

Guest • 41%

Samantha Miles

Guest • 6%

Chapters

0:00	Introduction and personal updates from hosts
3:37	Guest Introduction: Edgar Thomas and his business journey
6:37	Validating and launching a specialty tea business in the UK
11:35	Handling business pivots and maintaining a long-term mindset
15:15	Transitioning roles and managing rapid growth in startups
20:14	Sponsor: Virtually There's Young Entrepreneur Scheme
23:44	The importance of co-founders and support networks in startups
26:33	Future plans for Virtually There and advice for founders
30:07	Outsourcing, passion, and growing impact across the UK
31:09	Listener interaction segment: Promoting entrepreneurship among youth
36:41	Episode wrap-up, reflections, and special offers for listeners

Transcript

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