Coffee with a Founder Podcast: Simon Holland of Vera

14- Aug-2025

On today’s installment, Beck Bamberger sits down with Simon Holland, Founder of Vera, an AI-powered back office automation tool for SMBs.

In this episode, he opens up about what it’s like to build teams across continents and the unexpected relationships that have blossomed from company culture.

show notes:

01:02 - Embracing unconventional hours

03:09 - Automating admin with Vera

07:12 - The founder’s serial journey

09:47 - Why the right people matter

15:24 - Lessons from a globetrotting childhood

23:45 - Vera’s next chapter and who it’s for

Read More About The Episode:

01:02 - Embracing unconventional hours
Simon Holland explains how his unconventional schedule, living in London but working U.S. hours, helps him balance personal time with business productivity. He shares how the quiet mornings provide a chance to prepare and focus before a busy workday begins.

03:09 - Automating admin with Vera
Simon introduces Vera, describing it as an AI-powered back office automation tool for SMBs. He outlines how the platform integrates with email, document storage, and accounting software to streamline and automate administrative tasks.

07:12 - The founder’s serial journey
Beck explores Simon’s “founderitis,” referencing his previous startups, Hot Doc and Vivi, and discussing his habit of continuously seeking new problems to solve across different sectors.

09:47 - Why the right people matter
Simon emphasizes that team composition is critical in building successful companies. He reflects on the lasting impact of great hires, how former colleagues have joined him at multiple companies, and the surprising number of marriages and friendships formed within his teams.

15:24 - Lessons from a globetrotting childhood
Simon recounts his upbringing across Peru, Spain, and Australia. He explains how frequent cultural changes taught him adaptability and empathy, qualities he now sees as crucial in both life and business leadership.

23:45 - Vera’s next chapter and who it’s for
As the discussion concludes, Simon breaks down Vera’s upcoming product launch, its primary target audience (SMBs, finance and operations leaders, and accountants), and how listeners can join the waitlist for early access.