This month's "Meet the Member" features entrepreneur Josh Richards, who has three businesses at the age of 23. He supports Arsenal, is passionate about food, and would love to have Ant-Man's ability to resize.
Tell us a little about yourself and why you come to Unicorn Studios?
I support Arsenal and Bukayo Saka is one of my favourite players. I have a full-time job and operate three businesses, at the age of 23. I am looking to outsource and expand them as I grow older.
I joined Unicorn Studios in January 2023 because I was working from home and I needed an office so I could split up my working day.
It was the obvious choice because I knew Rob and Steve from the Waterfront Studios (a co-working studio for creatives), that was based at the University of Suffolk until 2019.
I enjoy working at Unicorn Studios because of the friendly people and frequent discussions about food (a passion of mine). The networking is good for my business.
What was your first job?
Technically, it was a paper round for £20 a week, however I would say it was actually a sales apprenticeship at a place called UK Fuels where I had to cold call 50 - 100 businesses a day. I did this for about one year before working at McDonalds.
From a young age I have wanted to set up my own business. At 13, I started following entrepreneurs like Gary Vee, Warren Buffet and Elon Musk, and began drawing up business plans with a friend.
What work accomplishment are you most proud of?
I am most proud of having the confidence to leave my traditional 9-5 employment to build a successful eBay business. I like having the freedom to do what I want whenever I want. I can keep my own hours and split my time between the studio and working from home.
Are you an early bird or a night owl?
If I had to choose I would be a night owl because that's when I'm most productive and it’s a great excuse to have a lay-in, and work from my bed. I find it’s the best place to tackle my emails first thing in the morning.
What’s one of your favourite memories this year?
One of my favourite memories from the last year is going to watch Ipswich Town FC play at Portman Road ,with my Dad. My next door neighbour gave me free tickets for the match. It was good to hang out together and discuss my life, and business aspirations.
When working what is your guilty pleasure?
Singing loudly and dancing to Santan Dave when everyone has left the Studio. Although now my secret is out, Rob (one of the partners) has said he will be checking the cameras. (I wouldn’t be surprised if a GIF appears on the Studios social media.)
What’s something you’re planning on doing in the next year that you’ve never done before?
Travelling and going on work holidays with my businesses. The first place on my list is Bulgaria because my mate Addie is studying to become a doctor over there.
I would also like to visit my family in Villamartin near Alicante. My cousin owns a cafe bar there. I’m up for going anywhere I don’t have to pay for accommodation. So if anyone is offering, drop me a message on Instagram (see link below).
What is your hidden talent?
Sleeping, I can sleep for England. I have been bugging the Unicorn partners for a sleep pod in the basement for the last few months. I got the idea from a Sidemen video. They went to Tokyo and sleep pods are very big in the culture over there.
If you could snap your fingers and become an expert in something, what would it be?
Initially, I would love to become an expert in the economy, as this would help me understand the foreign exchange markets and trade more effectively.
What three people would be your fantasy coworkers at Unicorn studios? And why?
Ian Wright because he is an Arsenal legend and who wouldn't want to be in Uncle Wrighty's company?
Patrick Bet-David because he is a successful businessman and podcast host with extensive knowledge of business, life, and networking, and I would pick his brains.
Warren Buffett because he was one of the first people who built my interest in business and investing.
Would you rather be a tiny unicorn or a giant hamster?
It wouldn't matter because I would have the ability to resize like Ant-Man. However, if I was a tiny unicorn I could save money on food and materials.
Instagram - @joshrichardsuk
Benefits of joining Unicorn Studios
Productivity
Work-life balance
Cost effective
Collaboration
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