In this episode, I am joined by Abdul Bangura, a former drug dealer and current Founder and CEO of Fresco Box. This isn’t your typical “boy meets problem, falls in love with solution” startup story but trust me when I say that it is jam-packed with advice and insight, as well as some pretty eyebrow-raising moments. In fact, hearing Abdul describe the inner workings of such a radically different business model really brings into sharp relief the fact that certain steps are critical in every business. Like many entrepreneurs, he went through a process of establishing product market fit, he took steps to minimise risk, he operated a lean team and he built a less hierarchical culture designed to bring the best out of the people he worked with. I also love the straightforward, matter-of-fact approach to feedback and new product development - if the client is buying from you, just ask them what they want to eat! This episode also demonstrates how one connection, one chance encounter and one conversation can change the course of your business and your life. Which leads neatly onto the biggest takeaway for me: it is always possible to turn your life around provided you have the right mindset and the necessary transferable skills - such as patience, an understanding of human psychology, an ability to network and a willingness to work damn hard.