Food, Purpose, and Mental Health: Inside Will Howard's Commercial Journey

Ever wondered how a bag of salad grows? Will Howard, Managing Director of GrowUp Farms, takes us behind the scenes of vertical farming technology that's revolutionising food production in the UK.

Will's fascinating journey began not with ambitions for corporate success, but with a simple love of food. From mixing cocktails in Nantucket to scaling Ella's Kitchen to £80 million in sales, his career path reveals how purpose-driven businesses attract passionate talent and achieve remarkable growth. "Having a bit of purpose really gives you the energy for what you're trying to achieve," Will explains. "The tough times are less tough because you know why you're doing it."

The conversation delves deep into authentic leadership, with Will candidly discussing his own mental health journey and how vulnerability transformed his effectiveness as a leader. His morning CrossFit ritual isn't just about physical fitness; it creates the mental space he needs to lead with clarity and presence. This balance between professional ambition and personal well-being emerges as a crucial theme throughout our discussion.

Perhaps most fascinating is Will's description of Grow Up Farms' vertical growing chambers - imagine three double-decker buses high, three buses long, with twelve fields stacked inside, creating perfect Mediterranean growing conditions year-round without pesticides. Their "Unbeleafable" brand promises that the first person to touch the salad leaves is you, the consumer.

Whether you're fascinated by sustainable food production, seeking leadership insights, or simply curious about how purpose-driven businesses operate, Will's story demonstrates that commercial success and positive impact can grow together beautifully. As he puts it: "We're trying to change the world by growing better."

To listen to the podcast, please head:

Apple Podcast

Spotify Podcast