How Makers & Shapers Really Began | Episode 1

Episode 1 of Makers & Shapers, and we're starting with the only people who know how this whole thing actually came together: us. We're Rebecca and Megha, and we run the Makers & Shapers Awards. In this first episode, we ask each other the questions: where the idea came from, why we made the awards free to enter and judged by a panel instead of a popularity vote, and what year one really looked like behind the scenes. Short answer? We largely made it up as we went along. And somehow, it worked. We also talk about why it's so hard for women to put their own name forward, what we say to the ones who hesitate, what it's like being co-founders (we haven't fallen out yet), and why there's a brand new Co-Founder Award for 2027. We didn't rehearse. Practice runs? Zero. Thinking about applying? The awards are for businesses that are ideally between one and seven years old, in profit or on the way there. You don't need a big team or a massive turnover — just a business that matters and a story worth telling. Applications open on 4 January. You can apply, nominate someone, sponsor us, or ask about judging at makersandshapers.com. Enjoyed it? Subscribe and come back for the next one — we've got some brilliant founders lined up. Applications for the 2027 Awards open on 4 January. To apply, nominate someone, sponsor or judge, go to makersandshapers.com in the meantime to stay in the loop. A huge thank you to Anna Rainn and Anupama, our very first podcast sponsor, for backing what we're building and helping us take these conversations to a wider audience. DISCOVER ANNA RAINN Clothing that makes you look good, do good and feel good! Designed with the everchanging woman’s body in mind, their wrap dresses and tops make you feel comfortable and confident. Get a one-time special if you are from the Makers & Shapers Community : 20% off your order - MSMSRD20 valid till 31st Dec 2026. Website: www.annarainn.com ​​Instagram: @anna.rainn Facebook: @annarainn Linkedin:  / anna-rainn