In this episode, Ben Burch, co-founder of Allegr, joins host Rob Woodhead from Old Street Labs for a wide-ranging conversation on building products, purpose, and community, without boiling the ocean.

Ben shares his journey from a non-linear career path to founding a mission-driven startup focused on the UK military and veteran community. They dig into why most so-called “social” platforms miss the mark, and what it really takes to design for meaningful, real-world connection.

From navigating go-to-market without big budgets to avoiding common product-building pitfalls, this episode is full of sharp insights for anyone working in tech, community, or purpose-led businesses.

What You’ll Learn:

• How a deeply personal experience became the foundation for a mission-led company
• Why community matters more than audience — and how to build for it
• GTM strategies for early-stage startups without a DTC war chest
• Practical lessons from building and shipping lean, fast, and focused
• What’s next: rowing, alumni networks, and life beyond the startup grind