Ignite & Scale - The Cambria Private Capital Podcast with Mike Allen

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, Mike Allen talks to Sam Baker.

Sam Baker is the Managing Partner of Mobility VC, a global venture platform focused on investing in the underlying infrastructure that enables the future of mobility. His career spans impact-driven work at Kiva, followed by co-founding and scaling a mobility platform operating in over 100 cities worldwide. At Mobility VC, he leads a highly international, operator-led team that combines investment with hands-on support, leveraging deep global networks to help companies expand, form strategic partnerships, and scale across markets.

Sam explains that Mobility VC differentiates...

In this episode, Mike talks to Ben Chodor

Ben Chodor is the CEO of CallRevu, a communications intelligence platform used by thousands of dealerships to turn everyday customer interactions into actionable insight and revenue growth. With a background spanning SaaS, digital media, and communications at scale, he is known for a pragmatic, results-driven approach that aligns product, customer needs, and data to deliver measurable outcomes. Ben focuses on building high-performing teams, maintaining operational discipline, and executing a clear, customer-centric strategy that supports sustainable, long-term growth. 

In this episode, Mike and Ben discuss how a pivotal s...

This week episode of Ignite & Scale Mike Allen talks to Neil Shah

Neil Shah is a senior leader at the London Stock Exchange, where he works closely with ambitious tech and tech-enabled businesses from early scale through to global leaders. He focuses on how companies access capital, scale effectively and navigate strategic options, giving him a front-line view of what separates high-performing founders from the rest across the UK tech sector.

Mike and Neil discuss what separates the best founders from the rest, drawing on Neil’s experience working with scaling tech businesses across the UK...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, we explore how customer insight is reshaping the automotive industry.

Mike Allen welcomes Scott Gairns, Managing Director of Sophus3, who shares his experience working with leading automotive retailers and OEMs to turn fragmented customer data into actionable insight.

With the industry undergoing rapid transformation — from electrification to digital retail and evolving ownership models — understanding the customer is no longer optional. It’s a competitive advantage.

Scott Gairns explains that the real opportunity lies in unifying fragmented data to create a clear, actionable view of the customer—unlocking gains in...

From Ford Britain to the Future of Automotive — with Andy Barratt

Andy Barratt spent nearly 25 years at Ford Motor Company, rising to Managing Director of Ford Britain — a business responsible for 450,000 vehicles annually and $14 billion in revenue. Since then, he's held senior leadership roles across the Middle East and now advises organisations on transformation and growth.

In this episode, Andy shares hard-won lessons from leading one of the UK's most important businesses through Brexit and Covid, his experience transforming automotive retail operations in the Middle East, and his unfiltered view on where the industry is h...

Guest: Stuart Widdowson – Co-Founder & Fund Manager, Odyssean Capital
🔍 Episode Overview
In this episode, Mike Allen welcomes Stuart Widdowson, one of the UK’s most respected small and mid-cap fund managers and co-founder of Odyssean Capital. With over two decades investing across public and private markets, Stuart shares deep insights on valuations, market inefficiencies, and why applying a private equity mindset to listed companies is one of the most compelling strategies in today’s market.

Mike reflects on a 20-year professional relationship with Stuart, from sell-side meetings to deep strategic discussions — and now, the evolution of Odyssean Ca...

Host: Mike Allen – Cambria Private Capital

🔍 About This Episode

In today’s episode, Mike Allen sits down with Anthony Brennan, Board & Business Development Director at Autonomy, part of the MTC Group. Autonomy is redefining how dealerships and OEMs deliver digital experiences by designing platforms that combine freedom, flexibility and scale.
This conversation dives into how Autonomy was built — not just as a product, but as a philosophy. It’s about giving power back to teams, dealers, and customers through smart systems that enable rather than restrict.

🧭 Key Themes & Talking Points

1️⃣ Origins & Vision<...

Show Notes – Strong on AI, Automotive 🚘🤖

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, we sit down with Devin Daly, founder and CEO of Impel, the first unicorn on our podcast. Devin takes us inside the incredible journey from investment banking to building a global AI powerhouse transforming automotive retail.

Impel now powers 36bn shopper interactions, driving over $9 billion in sales across 51 countries. From humble beginnings creating 360° product visualizations for fashion brands to becoming the leading AI platform in automotive, Devin shares how bold vision, smart pivots, and relentless focus on people and culture fuelled their success.

What...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, Mike Allen sits down with Charlie Cook, founder of Rightcharge, to explore how a climate-driven mission evolved into one of the UK’s most innovative EV charging businesses.

What began as a simple comparison tool has since transformed into core EV charging payments software—a tech platform designed to make charging payments seamless and accurate for both drivers and admins. This evolution from spreadsheet beginnings to trusted technology partner highlights the company’s ability to pivot, scale, and seize a once-in-a-generation opportunity.

From spotting a gap in the market, to bui...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, we sit down with Johan Sundstrand — serial entrepreneur and founder of Phyron, one of the most innovative AI scaleups transforming automotive retail.

Johan’s entrepreneurial journey spans over two decades, from building Kalix Finans in fintech (scaled to 60,000 users and acquired by Folksam), to founding Freya News (later acquired by Jabmo), and leading Jabmo’s EMEA commercial strategy before pivoting into automotive. Along the way, he’s raised over €60 million in venture capital and scaled multiple businesses across Europe and North America.

In this episode we cover:

🔍 Episode Overview:
In this episode, Mike Allen sits down with John Veichmanis, CEO of Carwow, to unpack his leadership journey and the bold vision he’s shaping for one of the UK’s most influential automotive platforms.

They explore:

Whether you’re a founder, operator, or investor in mobility or m...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, Mike Allen sits down with Ken Cumming, founder of Redhead Automotive, a consultancy renowned for transforming dealer profitability across the UK and Northern Europe.

Ken brings decades of operational experience—from Toyota GB to global consulting with ASE—and shares powerful, no-nonsense insights on what actually drives results in the automotive retail world. If you’re a founder selling into OEMs or dealers, this episode is essential listening.

What we cover:

🔧 Ken’s journey from the shop floor to founding Redhead Automotive

📊 Why most consultants miss the mark—...

Episode overview:

In this data-rich and candid conversation, Philip Nothard, one of the UK’s most respected automotive analysts, joins Mike Allen to unpack the major shifts shaping the sector in 2025. Fresh from Autopalooza and the FT Future of the Car Summit, Philip shares insights from the latest Cox Automotive Insight Quarterly report and explains what they mean for founders, operators, and investors.

Topics covered include:

🔥 Episode Overview:

In this high-impact episode, Mike sits down with Ashley Tott—entrepreneur, investor, and one of Sweden’s most sought-after scale-up advisors. With a background in corporate finance, private equity, and board leadership, Ashley brings sharp insight into how founder-led businesses can break through the €10m turnover ceiling and achieve repeatable, structured growth.

From recruiting his first Chair at just 27 to helping dozens of businesses install world-class board frameworks, Ashley shares why governance done right isn’t boring—it’s a growth weapon.

🧠 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:

In this powerful kickoff to Series 3 of Ignite & Scale, Mike Allen sits down with Angela Montacute, the CEO of Digital INNK, to explore what it takes to scale a SaaS business in one of the most challenging sectors: automotive.

Angela shares the origin story behind Digital INNK, the moments that proved real product-market fit, and the hard-won lessons of building a lean, effective team while serving some of the industry’s biggest names.

If you’re a founder, operator, or investor in the auto-tech ecosystem, this is one not to miss.

🎧 In this episode...

Ignite & Scale – Final Episode of Series 2

In the final episode of Ignite & Scale Season 2, Mike sits down with Dave Timmis, founder of Leasing.com, to discuss his 25-year journey in the UK car leasing industry. From the early days of ContractHireAndLeasing.com to leading the UK’s largest car leasing comparison platform, Dave shares valuable insights into:
 • The Evolution of Leasing.com: How the industry has shifted from classified ads in car magazines to a fully digital marketplace that connects millions of UK lessees with leasing providers.
 • Navigating Industry Shifts: The impact of Brexit, COVID-19, supply cha...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, host Mike Allen engages in a compelling conversation with Owen Edwards, an expert in automotive business consulting at Grant Thornton UK LLP. They delve into the intricacies of scaling businesses within the automotive sector, discussing strategies for sustainable growth, the impact of emerging technologies, and the evolving landscape of automotive finance. Owen shares his insights on navigating industry challenges and offers advice for entrepreneurs and investors looking to make informed decisions in this dynamic market.

Key Topics Discussed:

• Scaling Strategies: Effective methods for business expansion in th...

Jeff Barnes, Managing Partner at Angel Investor Network and Host of Angels, Exits, & Acquisitions

In this episode of Ignite & Scale - The Cambria Private Capital Podcast, Mike Allen sits down with Jeff Barnes to unpack his FOCUS framework—a powerful tool for entrepreneurs and investors alike. They explore:

• FOCUS Framework: Jeff’s step-by-step approach to building clarity and alignment in your business.

• Scaling with Precision: How to leverage focus to grow your business sustainably.

• Angel Investing Insights: What Jeff looks for in founders and why focus is a key differ...

In this episode of Ignite & Scale, host Mike Allen is joined by David Spickett, CEO and Co-Founder of The Car Crowd, to explore the innovative concept of fractional ownership in classic cars. Together, they discuss how The Car Crowd is democratising access to classic car investments, the intricacies of managing such a platform, and the passion that drives a community of investors and automotive enthusiasts.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Origins of The Car Crowd: David explains the inspiration behind founding the platform and the challenges he faced in making his vision a re...

In this episode, Mike is joined by William Taaffe, Chief Operating Officer at Lockdown Cyber Security, to explore the critical topic of cybersecurity for modern business leaders. As the digital landscape evolves, so do the threats that companies face. William shares valuable insights into the current cybersecurity challenges and offers practical advice on how businesses can proactively protect themselves.

Key Topics Covered:

• The Urgency of Cybersecurity: Why every business, no matter its size, should prioritise cybersecurity.

• Understanding Cyber Threats: William explains common threats facing organisations today and how they are cons...

Guest: Jeremy Evans, Chief Executive at Marketing Delivery

Host: Mike Allen, Cambria Private Capital

Summary: Mike Allen interviews Jeremy Evans to discuss how digital and CRM marketing are transforming the automotive industry. Jeremy shares insights on how data is driving customer engagement, the importance of personalisation in marketing strategies, and the future of digital tools in automotive retail.

Key Topics:

• CRM’s role in automotive marketing

• Data-driven customer engagement

• Future trends in automotive retail

© Copyright Cambria Private C...

Guest: Steve Young, Managing Director at ICDP and IndeGo Consulting

Host: Mike Allen, Cambria Private Capital

Summary: Mike Allen speaks with Steve Young about the latest trends and strategic developments in the automotive industry. They discuss the evolving market landscape, the impact of new technologies, and key challenges facing the sector. Steve offers expert perspectives on leadership, innovation, and future growth opportunities.

Key Topics:

• Automotive industry trends and shifts

• Innovation and leadership strategies

• Market challenges and future outlook

©...

Guest: Andrew Tallents, Conscious Leadership Coach and Author

Host: Mike Allen, Cambria Private Capital

Summary: In this episode, Mike Allen speaks with Andrew Tallents about conscious leadership and self-coaching. Andrew shares valuable techniques for founders and leaders to achieve personal and professional growth. They explore how leaders can develop emotional intelligence, foster strong teams, and maintain balance amidst the pressures of leadership.

Checkout Andrew's book - Self-coaching for Leaders: The unique and simple approach to living your personal and professional dreams

Key...

In this episode, Mike Allen sits down with Daniel Briggs to explore how Motorfinity is transforming the automotive space. Daniel shares his entrepreneurial journey, insights into scaling Motorfinity, and the challenges he's overcome in the industry. The conversation also covers the importance of customer relationships, market dynamics, and leadership in a fast-paced business environment.

Key Topics:

- The origin and growth of Motorfinity

- Industry trends and customer focus

- Leadership lessons and business strategies

© Copyright Cambria Private Capital. All Rights Reserved.

In this episode, Mike Allen interviews John Miele about CarCare's innovative business model, the challenges and opportunities in the automotive industry, and John's journey in scaling a successful business. They discuss growth strategies, leadership insights, and the role of investment in driving industry disruption.
 
🔑 CarCare’s UK Expansion — Why John joined CarCare and how the platform is positioned to bring much-needed efficiency and profitability improvements to dealers across the UK.

🚗 Solving Dealers' Biggest Challenges — With the current market pressures, CarCare is helping dealers streamline operations, reduce lead times, and maximize their margins.

📈 The Power of Automat...

This week Mike talks to Quentin Le Hetet

Quentin is the UK Country Director at GiPA, an organization renowned for its in-depth market research and intelligence in the automotive sector. Under his leadership, GiPA recently conducted the comprehensive "GiPA EV Drivers Survey 2024," offering invaluable insights into the EV market, driver preferences, and the evolving landscape of automotive maintenance and care.

Mike and Quentin do a deep dive into the GiPA EV Drivers Survey 2024, with growth in the EV sector and shifts in consumer preferences. They discuss the most surprising consumer attitudes toward EVs revealed in...

In this week episode Mike talks to Max Pog

Max is fully immersed in the world of venture studios having research the model extensively with a 7-month report called Big Startup Studios research and created a huge online community. Those that aren't familiar with the Venture studios model, also known as startup studios or company builders, are organizations that build companies using their own ideas and resources. Unlike traditional venture capital firms that invest in existing companies, venture studios are hands-on, actively participating in or leading the development of the business from the ground up. Max has...

This week Mike talks to automotive industry legend Glenn Mercer

Glenn Mercer brings to the table over three decades of expertise in the automotive industry, initiating his illustrious career in 1985 with McKinsey as a Partner in their Automotive Practice. Throughout his tenure, he engaged in numerous client projects, amassing a wealth of experience. Since 2006, Mercer has operated as an independent consultant, offering his services to a variety of prestigious investment firms such as KKR, Kleiner Perkins, and Baillie Gifford, as well as providing guidance to industry stakeholders like Ricardo, NADA, and NAAA. He has contributed as a...

In this week's episode Mike talks to David Betteley.

David is an expert in automotive finance with a history of leadership roles at major firms like Vauxhall Finance, Toyota Financial Services, and Jaguar Land Rover. Now, as a chairman, he leverages his experience to guide companies through growth, funding, and strategic planning, working with Tomorrow's Journey, CrediCar and Right Charge. 

Mike and David explore the distinct skill sets required for start-ups compared to large corporations, highlighting how these skills might not always be interchangeable. David shares insights from his experience as a chairman of start-ups, l...

This week Mike talks to Claire Richards, Principal Sustainability Consultant from Anthesis Group.

Claire Richards, plays a pivotal role in guiding businesses and organizations towards environmentally responsible and sustainable practices. She combines a deep understanding of environmental science, sustainable development, and corporate social responsibility with strategic planning and project management skills. Claire's duties often encompass conducting comprehensive sustainability assessments, developing strategies to reduce carbon footprints and waste, ensuring compliance with environmental regulations, and implementing green initiatives.

Mike and Claire examine the importance of early-stage businesses embracing ESG principles, emphasizing how a comprehensive ESG strategy can...

In this week's episode Mike talks to Carwow Founder James Hind.

James Hind is the founder of Carwow, a revolutionary platform that has transformed the way people buy new cars in the United Kingdom. Before launching Carwow in 2010, Hind's insights into the automotive industry were honed through his background in finance and a personal passion for cars. Recognizing the challenges and inefficiencies consumers faced in the car buying process, Hind envisioned a more transparent, hassle-free approach that would empower buyers while also serving dealerships. Carwow, under Hind's leadership, has since established itself as a pivotal service, simplifying...

Peter Cowley, is a Cambridge-based tech entrepreneur, angel investor, and speaker, has a substantial portfolio with investments in more than 75 technology startups. Formerly serving as the chair of the Cambridge Angels, he now holds the title of President Emeritus at the European Business Angels Network (EBAN). Additionally, Cowley is a board member of the Global Business Angels Network (GBAN), which falls under the umbrella of the Global Entrepreneurs Network.

In this episode, Mike and Peter delve into Peter's journey and knowledge gained from investing in companies. They explore current trends in the industry and offer a wealth...

IN this week's episode Mike talks to Douglas Lawson, Co-Founder and CEO of MarktoMarket.

MarktoMarket is a software platform providing data and analytics to professional advisers and investors to identify and connect with opportunities, value assets, map markets, benchmark performance, and more.

Mike and and Douglas discuss how Doug moved from a career in Fund Management to founding MarktoMarket, the challenges and learning curves that come with a startup and what trends is MarktoMarket seeing at the moment.

© Copyright Cambria Private Capital. All Rights Reserved

In this first episode of Ignite & Scale Mike talks to co Founders of Bumper, James Jackson, CEO and Jack Allman, COO.

Bumper is a UK-based financial service offering an innovative solution for car repairs and maintenance. It allows drivers to split the cost of car repairs into interest-free monthly instalments, eliminating the need for upfront payment. With over 4,000 service partners across the UK, Bumper provides access to reputable dealers, independent garages, body shops, and specialist repairers. The service is designed to make car maintenance more manageable financially, offering a quick, paperwork-free pre-approval process online, and supports over 500,000...

Our aim is to provide you, our listeners – whether you’re a budding founder, a keen investor, or simply an enthusiast of business innovation – with unique insights and perspectives that can only come from those who have truly walked the path of success.

At Cambria Private Capital, we believe in more than just investment; we believe in nurturing potential, sparking growth, and building lasting relationships. Each episode is a step towards uncovering the strategies, challenges, and triumphs that define today’s business landscape.

So, whether you're here to find your next investment...