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Mad Influence

Mad Influence

Helen Saul
Released: 2026-01-12
© Helen Saul
Mad Influence - QR Code
FreeNew
21 Episodes
Audio
Listen on Apple Podcasts
FreeNew
21 Episodes
Audio
Listen on Apple Podcasts
Released: 2026-01-12
© Helen Saul
Most Recent Episode
Social Mobility, Sacrifice and Scaling Opportunity with Joe Seddon

Social Mobility, Sacrifice and Scaling Opportunity with Joe Seddon

How does someone build a tech startup from scratch when the odds are stacked against them, and help thousands of other young people improve their access to opportunity across the UK? In this episode of Mad Influence, Helen Saul is joined by Joe Seddon,
Time: 49:21
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How does someone build a tech startup from scratch when the odds are stacked against them, and help thousands of other young people improve their access to opportunity across the UK?
In this episode of Mad Influence, Helen Saul is joined by Joe Seddon, Founder and CEO of Zero Gravity, a tech platform supporting students from low-opportunity backgrounds into top universities and high-impact careers.
Joe built Zero Gravity from his student bedroom with the last £200 of his student loan. Today, the platform has supported over 15,000 students into leading institutions and careers, deployed millions in scholarships, and partners with some of the UK’s biggest employers.
But Joe’s journey also reveals the personal trade-offs and identity questions that often come with social mobility.
As Joe puts it: “Everyone talks about imposter syndrome. What we don’t talk about enough is social mobility guilt.”
This conversation explores how Joe identifies talent early, why community and long-term support matter as much as access, and what it takes to build systems that level the playing field at scale. Helen and Joe also discuss employer partnerships, geographic mobility, and how AI could reshape opportunity for the next generation- for better or worse.
Key Moments:
02:42 What Zero Gravity does and who it’s for07:36 The four factors that shape opportunity11:16 Imposter syndrome vs social mobility guilt18:23 Natalie’s story: Oxford, Tesco and a US law firm25:59 Why opportunity is concentrated in London36:43 Who gets to build startups (class and founders)43:35 AI, education and the future of early careers48:50 Final reflections
Music written by Joseph McDade
Follow Joe Seddon:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeseddon/
Website: www.zerogravity.co.uk
Follow Helen Saul:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helensaul/
Follow Mad Influence:
YouTube: www.youtube.com/@madinfluencepod
Instagram: www.instagram.com/madinfluencepod/
TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@madinfluencepod
Episode ID: 1000744755201
GUID: 20ca955d-3bf0-4342-a839-e8a8fb7369b0
Release Date: 12/01/2026, 03:00:00

Description

Mad Influence is a podcast about the power of influence - and what happens when people choose to use it for good. Hosted by Helen Saul, Head of Marketing at one of the UK’s leading charities, it features conversations with founders, campaigners, and creatives who are using their platforms to make a meaningful impact, entertain the world or spread a positive message. This series explores how ideas spread, how connections are made and how we can all use our power more for good.

Feed URL

https://anchor.fm/s/230d311c/podcast/rss

Apple Podcasts: Customer Reviews

2021-02-26

Brilliant podcast

Love this podcast, really inspiring and easy to connect with Helen’s style
kristinsonfield
2021-02-13

Breaking marketers stereotypes

If you work in marketing and advertising, give yourself some time to listen to this. It’ll open your mind!
PeachCabrini
2021-02-13

My new obsession

Discovered this podcast a few weeks ago and I’m hooked.
An amazing range of people and experiences with fantastic stories.
Really inspiring.
Czs1818
2021-01-29

The bright side of marketing

Very nice podcast with a great host and super interesting guests.
Elena_G123
2020-08-27

Really enjoyable

Wasn’t sure this would be my cup of tea as I don’t work in marketing but Helen is a great host and delves into some really thought provoking topics with guests
Bekah 4 lyf
2020-07-27

Very interesting podcast for those in the marketing industry

Thought provoking interviews with people trying to make a genuine difference in the world of marketing. Interesting for those working in the industry and anyone who’s interested more generally in brands, advertising and diversity.
stpaulsroad1
2020-07-26

Refreshing outlook of marketing

A really thought provoking interview with an inspiring individual on their thoughts on marketing. A really positive perspective.
looklikeafish
2020-07-23

Love this podcast!

Really insightful and interesting podcast. Would 100% recommend!
HannahJR1992