A teenage trader learns to move stock on Romford Market, then builds a clean‑label snack factory that challenges ultra‑processed bars and keeps going through COVID with a private‑label engine. Matt Hunt, co‑founder of The Protein Ball Co, joins us for a candid, high‑energy tour through graft, grit, and the choices that change a business. We dig into margins, manufacturing, pet treats you could eat, and a bold rebrand made to win shelves.• early market lessons shaping sales craft and urgency• olives to protein balls and the Expo West insight• outsourcing pain points versus owning production• factory build on a tight budget and fast scale to export• airline margins, cancellations, and cash discipline• educating customers on protein types and absorption• clean labels versus ultra‑processed ingredients• COVID impact and the private label pivot• launching human‑grade dog treats with low carbs• rebrand to Ballsy By Nature and paper packaging• returning to proactive sales with a stronger story• partnership roles, stress, and family balancePlease like and subscribe. And prior review, would really appreciate it. If you want to know more about starting a food business, head to www.jgreenwood.comSupport the show