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Built to Perform
Built To Perform is a podcast dedicated to uncovering what it really takes to drive change, innovate, and perform in industries that shape our world.
Hosted by James Hallworth, each episode features in-depth conversations with founders, innovators, and leaders who are breaking barriers in business, technology, and sustainability. From the challenges of decarbonizing real estate to the mindset shifts required for true innovation, Built To Perform explores stories, strategies, and lessons from those building solutions that matter.
Whether you’re an entrepreneur, industry professional, or simply curious about the future of performance and impact, this podcast gives you the insights and inspiration to think bigger and build to perform.
Built to Perform
Built to Perform with James Hallworth – Ep.8: Max Jones on The Future of Non-Uni Career Paths
In this episode of the Built to Perform Podcast, host James Hallworth engages with Max Jones, the 20-year-old founder of Serial Degrees. They delve into Max's inspiring journey from leaving his dream job at Perfect Ted to creating a supportive network for young people who choose not to attend university. They discuss topics such as building personal brands, the importance of mentoring, and how companies can better attract and support non-graduate talent. Max shares insights on the evolving landscape of traditional education paths and emphasizes the value of alternative routes to career success, particularly in the startup ecosystem.
00:00 Introduction to the 20-Year-Old Founder
00:34 Max Jones' Background and Career Beginnings
01:16 Journey at Perfect Ted
07:10 Building a Personal Brand with Steven Bartlett
10:01 Challenges and Rewards of Consistency
11:29 The Importance of Personal Branding for Companies
13:40 Founding Zero Degrees and Its Mission
14:50 The Value of Mentorship and Startup Experience
19:15 Zero Degrees: A New Path for School Leavers
22:53 Rethinking Traditional Education Routes
24:14 The Social Aspect of Networking
24:31 Challenging the Necessity of Degrees
25:17 Supporting Non-Graduate Talent
26:30 Modernizing Commercial Real Estate
27:56 Government and Industry Roles
30:06 Leveraging LinkedIn for Personal Branding
37:13 Consistency and Value in Content Creation
43:12 Evolving School-to-Career Pathways
45:40 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
