REBECCA LUNDGREN, Co-founder of Voxblock
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Rebecca Lundgren, the co-founder of Voxblock, tells us about starting her business whilst being a busy mother.
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Tell us about yourself.
I'm Rebecca Lundgren, the co-founder of Voxblock, a screen-free audiobook player designed specifically for children. I’m also a mother of two wonderful children, Matilda, who is 8, and Sven, who is 6. Although I’m originally from Sweden, I’ve spent the last 20 years in France, where both of my children were born. Four years ago, we decided to move to Edinburgh, where I now live and run my business.
Starting my own company was a big turning point for me. I founded Voxblock while on maternity leave, and rather than going back to a traditional job, I decided to embark on this entrepreneurial journey. My background is in project and product management, particularly in developing websites and apps, which helped me greatly in bringing Voxblock to life.
Tell us about where the idea for Voxblock came from.
The idea for Voxblock actually came from a very nostalgic place. I found my old cassette tapes from when I was a child, and they brought back such warm memories that I had saved them all these years. When I gave them to my daughter, who was 3 at the time, she loved them too! It struck me then just how valuable screen-free entertainment could be, especially in today’s world where kids spend so much time in front of screens.
As a multilingual family, I also saw the potential in audiobooks for developing language skills. However, I soon discovered that cassette tapes are no longer being made, and I couldn’t find a modern alternative that really ticked all the boxes I was looking for. So, in true entrepreneurial spirit, I decided to create my own solution—a screen-free, easy-to-use audiobook player for children, and that’s how Voxblock was born.
Is it hard being a mum and being the co-founder of Voxblock?
Being both a mum and a co-founder definitely keeps you busy! There are days when it can be tricky to juggle everything, but organising my time has really helped. When I do start feeling overwhelmed, I remind myself to take a step back and ask, “What’s truly important here?” My kids will always come first, and keeping that perspective makes decision-making a little easier.
Yes, it can be hard to manage both roles, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There are ups and downs—swings and balances—but seeing Voxblock grow while still being there for my family is worth every bit of effort.
What makes Voxblock unique?
I’d say the simplicity of Voxblock is what really sets it apart. There's no need to deal with complex Wi-Fi setups or digital subscriptions—it’s completely hassle-free. The best part is that children can use it on their own, giving them complete autonomy.
Beyond that, Voxblock is a tangible experience. Kids can physically engage with the player and its stories, which creates a deeper emotional connection. It’s not just another fleeting experience like streaming something on a tablet. It becomes something they hold onto, both literally and figuratively.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
One of my proudest moments was when I visited a school that had been using our Voxblock players for a while. Seeing the teachers and children so enthusiastic about it was incredibly moving. They were so excited to show me their setup and tell me how much Voxblock meant to them. I stood there thinking, “Wow, I made this.” All the hard work and late nights had paid off, and it was such a gratifying moment.
Can you share your top tip for balancing your work with your family?
For me, the key to balancing work and family is setting boundaries. It’s impossible to be everything for everyone all the time. Being a mother is a job in itself, so when I’m in mum-mode, I try my best not to think about work. It’s a difficult balance to strike at times, but it usually works out.
I’ve also learned the importance of accepting that you can’t do everything by yourself. Asking for help when you need it is crucial. And lastly, don’t strive for perfection. Do your best and be proud of it. I think it’s important to acknowledge your efforts and give yourself a pat on the back every now and then.
I'm Rebecca Lundgren, the co-founder of Voxblock, a screen-free audiobook player designed specifically for children. I’m also a mother of two wonderful children, Matilda, who is 8, and Sven, who is 6. Although I’m originally from Sweden, I’ve spent the last 20 years in France, where both of my children were born. Four years ago, we decided to move to Edinburgh, where I now live and run my business.
Starting my own company was a big turning point for me. I founded Voxblock while on maternity leave, and rather than going back to a traditional job, I decided to embark on this entrepreneurial journey. My background is in project and product management, particularly in developing websites and apps, which helped me greatly in bringing Voxblock to life.
Tell us about where the idea for Voxblock came from.
The idea for Voxblock actually came from a very nostalgic place. I found my old cassette tapes from when I was a child, and they brought back such warm memories that I had saved them all these years. When I gave them to my daughter, who was 3 at the time, she loved them too! It struck me then just how valuable screen-free entertainment could be, especially in today’s world where kids spend so much time in front of screens.
As a multilingual family, I also saw the potential in audiobooks for developing language skills. However, I soon discovered that cassette tapes are no longer being made, and I couldn’t find a modern alternative that really ticked all the boxes I was looking for. So, in true entrepreneurial spirit, I decided to create my own solution—a screen-free, easy-to-use audiobook player for children, and that’s how Voxblock was born.
Is it hard being a mum and being the co-founder of Voxblock?
Being both a mum and a co-founder definitely keeps you busy! There are days when it can be tricky to juggle everything, but organising my time has really helped. When I do start feeling overwhelmed, I remind myself to take a step back and ask, “What’s truly important here?” My kids will always come first, and keeping that perspective makes decision-making a little easier.
Yes, it can be hard to manage both roles, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. There are ups and downs—swings and balances—but seeing Voxblock grow while still being there for my family is worth every bit of effort.
What makes Voxblock unique?
I’d say the simplicity of Voxblock is what really sets it apart. There's no need to deal with complex Wi-Fi setups or digital subscriptions—it’s completely hassle-free. The best part is that children can use it on their own, giving them complete autonomy.
Beyond that, Voxblock is a tangible experience. Kids can physically engage with the player and its stories, which creates a deeper emotional connection. It’s not just another fleeting experience like streaming something on a tablet. It becomes something they hold onto, both literally and figuratively.
What has been your proudest moment so far?
One of my proudest moments was when I visited a school that had been using our Voxblock players for a while. Seeing the teachers and children so enthusiastic about it was incredibly moving. They were so excited to show me their setup and tell me how much Voxblock meant to them. I stood there thinking, “Wow, I made this.” All the hard work and late nights had paid off, and it was such a gratifying moment.
Can you share your top tip for balancing your work with your family?
For me, the key to balancing work and family is setting boundaries. It’s impossible to be everything for everyone all the time. Being a mother is a job in itself, so when I’m in mum-mode, I try my best not to think about work. It’s a difficult balance to strike at times, but it usually works out.
I’ve also learned the importance of accepting that you can’t do everything by yourself. Asking for help when you need it is crucial. And lastly, don’t strive for perfection. Do your best and be proud of it. I think it’s important to acknowledge your efforts and give yourself a pat on the back every now and then.
