I’m James - a former banker turned entrepreneur, father, and full-time optimist with a deep love for building things that matter.
I grew up in the suburbs of Birmingham, where I could walk to school, play until the sun went down, and live offline before everything became digital. From a young age, I was fascinated by people, nature, and how the world worked.
I was always generous, always asking questions, always learning - just not always in a classroom.
Traditional education never fit.
But life? Life was the ultimate playground.
I was a gifted mathematician, a decent athlete, and eventually - an excellent poker player.
Whilst studying economics at University of Leeds, I played semi-professionally, using the winnings to travel the world and chase freedom.
At one point, I almost opened a dive shop on a Thai beach. Instead, I listened to reason, studied accounting, and spent ten years in UK banking and consulting. I hated it. But it shaped me.
I learned how to simplify complexity, navigate difficult people, and stay calm under pressure.
I left with a powerful skill set - and a burning desire to create something of my own.
Today, I build and scale meaningful businesses like Ethical Bedding, Moongreens, and Origins - each one grounded in purpose, performance, and sustainability. I help other founders do the same through In Bed With James, a platform for business consulting, creative strategy, and real-talk about what it means to live well and lead well.
My life blends:
• Stoicism (for resilience)
• Buddhism (for awareness)
• Nature (as the greatest healer and teacher)
I value freedom, truth, and justice, and I don’t work with egos or assholes.
I’m a dad, a digital nomad, and a guy who’s trying to leave the world better than he found it - with a few laughs, a few businesses, and hopefully some real impact along the way.
If my work inspires even one person to live a little better, I’m winning.