When I write, change happens, and I love to write.
In 2015 I shut my first business down and began writing under an alias “@anonent” (anonymous entrepreneur). I told the hard truths I’d learned about startup life; fundraising, failure, product-market fit and being a young founder. I’d dropped out of University and never went back.
I began writing about mental health. I shared my story as an insecure ambitious founder and a young man grappling with lad culture. What happened next, I never expected.
I led, instigated and became an integral part in changing mental health culture in the UK. I built a business, created a community, brand, podcast and 1:1 coaching product that supported, 150+ businesses and tens of thousands of people. I wrote a book on mental health at work with Penguin summarising my learnings in 2021.
In 2022 I moved out of London and back to Staffordshire where I grew up. I began writing about Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, and regional development. I wrote an MSc Entrepreneurship with University of Staffordshire that launched 100 businesses, built a global community for people Made in Stoke and started a regional media outlet - The Knot.
For 10 years I’ve used writing, brand and community building to instigate powerful social change that’s led to cultural transformation and commercial opportunity. I love this work.
Now, I’m sharing my knowledge and experience with others. I guide founders along the way. I build brands. I write. I create. My own ventures and in partnership with others.
How this newsletter works
This will be unlike most newsletters you receive. I write with vulnerability and honesty, I share my story, live, as it happens.
I write about my experiences of the world in life, in business, in art, in relationships. I have no niche. My niche is me. I won’t wedge myself into marketing, or business building. I write about all of my life in all of it’s colour.
I hope that when you read my writing it slows you down and creates a moment for you to stop and pause. I hope I say what you’ve been feeling, or thinking but couldn’t put words to. I hope you feel seen and heard. I hope you know I’m out there watching the world with you.
Cheers,
James x