In this episode of Not Just a Number, SRLV Partner Adam Stanley sits down with two inspiring founders leading very different - yet equally mission-driven - ventures: Zak Marks, co-founder of Kitt Medical, and Sam Voulters, co-founder of Do Re Mi Books.

Kitt Medical’s anaphylaxis kits have already saved 19 lives across the UK - from schools to stadiums - while Do Re Mi Books is reimagining children’s publishing with beautifully illustrated stories inspired by Japanese and Korean art.

Both founders share their journeys from idea to impact - from early prototypes and investor pitches to hiring their first teams, navigating funding rounds, and building businesses rooted in purpose, innovation, and community good.

Discover what it takes to scale a purpose-led venture, the lessons learned along the way, and why brand storytelling, collaboration, and resilience are at the heart of every successful business.

What You’ll Hear:

• How Kitt Medical turned a student project into a nationwide lifesaving service
• The creative process behind Do Re Mi’s beautifully illustrated children’s books
• Funding strategies for early-stage startups and what to avoid
• How professional services like SRLV support entrepreneurs through financial structuring and growth planning
• Why brand storytelling and purpose are crucial for long-term success
• Lessons on leadership, scaling teams, and maintaining company culture through growth

0:00 – Welcome to Not Just a Number: Entrepreneurs, Creativity & Impact

01:00 - Real stories of founders turning bold ideas into sustainable businesses - featuring Sam Voulters (Do Re Mi Books) and Zak Marks (Kitt Medical)

01:54 – From Penguin to Purpose: Sam Voulters’ Publishing Journey 05:46 – Zak Marks’ University Idea That Became Kitt Medical

09:21 – Taking the Leap: From Concept to Real Company

10:21 – Validating the Vision: Investor & Industry Feedback

12:27 – Building Early Momentum & Raising Seed Funding

15:54 – Startup Funding, Cashflow & Financial Strategy

17:51 – Mental Resilience, Risk & Sacrifice in Startup Life

21:34 – Scaling Teams & Culture: Keeping the Startup Spirit Alive

32:12 – Funding Options: Choosing the Right Investors

40:15 – Industry Challenges: The Future of Books & Healthcare Innovation

46:14 – Proud Moments & Hard Lessons: Founders Reflect

52:02 – Advice for New Founders: Storytelling & Action Over Perfection

58:59 – Purpose Over Profits

Prefer to watch? Head over to our YouTube channel to watch the full episode.

Not Just a Number is a podcast for entrepreneurs, creatives and industry pioneers who want to grow businesses and protect what matters most to them and to their families.

Produced by SRLV - one of London’s leading boutique advisory firms - the show goes far beyond tax and accounting to bring a unique perspective on business, innovative thinking and leadership from the people shaping global industries, including music, entertainment, technology, consumer brands, and private wealth.

Each episode’s candid conversation focuses on personal stories, business strategies, top tips and trends - from scaling up companies and international relocations to creative rights and real-world business growth.

Whether they are clients or professional contacts, all our guests are friends of our business and so much more than “just a number”. People and relationships always come first at SRLV.

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