In this episode of Beyond Startups, we’re joined by Manoj, a structural engineer and tech founder who is reimagining the backbone of our built environment through digital innovation. With a career spanning from private residential designs to complex £100M ventures in London, Manoj has seen firsthand where traditional engineering methodologies fall short.

Manoj discusses his transition from navigating the technical complexities of civil engineering to founding struct.digital, a startup born from a desire to eliminate the industry's most persistent inefficiencies. He explains how repetitive tasks and outdated software aren't just technical hurdles—they are barriers to the creative problem-solving that defines good engineering.

The conversation dives into the practical power of how automation and AI-powered assistants can handle mundane processes like rebar estimates and carbon assessments at the click of a button. Manoj shares his vision for a future where engineers are freed from calculation fatigue to focus on high-level design and client delight.

Tune in to hear how Manoj is bridging the gap between structural integrity and software innovation, and why he believes the next great era of engineering will be defined by those brave enough to automate the status quo.

In this episode of Beyond Startups, we’re joined by Danielle Gaffney du Plooy, a social entrepreneur, psychotherapist, and coach dedicated to human-centered leadership and inclusive employment.

Danielle discusses the realities of building and scaling social enterprises—from her decade of experience founding and leading Uppertunity, a charity supporting adults with additional needs, to her recent appointment as a Director at Launch It Trust Dundee. She explains the importance of moving beyond employment to create cultures rooted in curiosity and bravery, and why person-centered development matters more than rigid job descriptions.

This episode also highlights Danielle’s philosophy of "soulful leadership," where she explores the intersection of psychology, nature, and entrepreneurship to foster systemic change. She shares practical insights on managing teams across multiple locations and the value of vulnerability in professional growth.

Tune in to hear how creativity, community impact, and inclusive leadership intersect in Danielle’s mission to make the workplace a more human space.

In this episode of Beyond Startups, we’re joined by Albert Suriñach, founder of Studio Platero, a theatre production company dedicated to transmedia storytelling and artist-led creative work.

Albert discusses the realities of building a company in the arts sector — from navigating non-traditional funding channels, to maintaining team morale without salaries, to collaborating across composition, acting, set design and production. He explains how Studio Platero is expanding into music production, animation and publishing, and why artistic values and long-term vision matter more than shortcuts.

This episode also highlights Studio Platero’s upcoming musical "The Tears of Nerakhis" debuting at the Byre Theatre on February 5th & 6th, showcasing the company’s mission to tell stories across theatre, music, visual media and print.

Tune in to hear how creativity, entrepreneurship and community intersect at Studio Platero.