Bump to Business Owner

Amy Grilli shares her inspiring journey from teacher to co-founder of Five Hour Club, a platform revolutionising flexible work for parents. Discover how her viral LinkedIn post sparked a movement, the importance of flexible careers for mums, and practical tips for balancing work and family. Topics: The origin of Five Hour Club and its mission Amy's personal career journey and challenges as a mum The impact of her viral LinkedIn post and movement creation The importance of flexible, part-time, and remote work options Strategies for managing identity, ambition, and family responsibilities Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:46 The Challenge of Finding Flexible Work for Parents 04:29 Identity Crisis: Balancing Motherhood and Career 07:36 The Viral LinkedIn Pos 10:12 Creating the Five Hour Club 12:59 Building a Job Board for Flexible Careers 15:54 Working with Employers: Educating on Flexibility 18:35 Success Stories and Future Plans 24:32 The Role of Team Leadership in Success 25:41 Balancing Work and Parenting 28:53 Finding Identity and Joy in Motherhood 30:13 Navigating the Default Parent Dynamic 33:42 Intentional Parenting and Career Choices 40:16 Creating Opportunities for Parents in the Workforce Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Amy Grilli Amy Grilli is the co-founder of Five Hour Club, a fast growing platform and movement rethinking how work works for parents. Before that, Amy was a teacher, a literacy specialist, and then like so many women, she stepped back from her career to raise children, becoming what so many of us women and mums relate to as the default parent. After years out of traditional work, Amy found herself standing at the school gates, feeling like she no longer belonged in her professional identity. She even considered removing herself from LinkedIn entirely due to the shame of her career gap. Instead, she wrote a post. That post went viral, reaching millions, sparking tens of thousands of conversations and revealing something powerful. This wasn't just Amy's experience. It was a global problem. From that moment, Amy and her co-founder Emma Harvey turned insights into actions, surveying thousands of parents launching a job board within two months and building Five Hour Club, a platform championing five hour careers designed to fit around school hours without compromising ambition. In just one year, they've shaped over 140 roles partnering with forward thinking employers and starting to challenge the very structure of the nine to five. Amy Grilli's Links: Website: https://fivehourclub.com/ LinkedIn (Five Hour Club): https://www.linkedin.com/company/five-hour-club/ LinkedIn (Amy): https://www.linkedin.com/in/amygrilli/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fivehourclub/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Caroline reflects on the challenges of maintaining momentum in business, especially during tough times, and shares practical tips on resilience, human connection, and self-care. She emphasises the importance of showing up, normalizing rest, and pivoting when needed, all while celebrating her podcast milestone. Topics: Consistency is key - keep showing up even when it feels hard Normalise taking rest and personal days to recharge Build human connection to support mental health and business growth Pivot and change your mind without guilt, explore new paths Chapters: 00:30 Celebrating 100 Episodes 02:27 Navigating Challenges in Entrepreneurship 05:14 The Importance of Human Connection 08:08 Finding Balance and Taking Breaks 10:41 Embracing Change and Flexibility 13:03 The Reality of Service-Based Businesses 16:07 Normalizing Personal Days 18:01 The Journey of Female Entrepreneurship Resources: Female Founders Rise Report: https://therisereport.co.uk/ Positive Entrepreneurship Report: https://positiveentrepreneurship.co/report/ Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

In this episode, Caroline Marshall interviews Olivia and Tanyka Davson, sisters and co-founders of Cubbi, the UK's first parental leave discount platform. They share their journey from no-code MVP to national platform, navigating entrepreneurship during early motherhood, pitching on Dragon's Den, and building a mission-led business that supports new parents financially and emotionally. Topics: Building a no-code MVP during early motherhood Securing brand partnerships and investment Navigating pregnancy and entrepreneurship The impact of AI tools on startup development Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Cubbi and Its Founders 01:58 The Journey to Entrepreneurship 04:36 Financial Challenges of Parenthood 07:15 Building a Business with No-Code Tools 12:51 The Experience of Pitching on Dragon's Den 15:35 Navigating Investment Challenges 19:44 Preparing for Dragon's Den 22:37 Navigating Maternity Leave as Entrepreneurs 27:28 Balancing Parenthood and Business 29:20 The Importance of Community Support for New Parents 33:21 Rediscovering Joy Amidst the Chaos 35:30 Connecting with Cubbi Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Cubbi, Olivia and Tanyka Davson Today we're welcoming Olivia and Tanyka Davison. They are sisters and co-founders of Cubbi, the UK's first parental leave discount platform designed specifically for new and expecting parents. Cubbi works like a student discount or blue light card, but for the perinatal window, offering verified new parents discounts across baby, maternity, food, fashion, wellness, and everyday spending. From Boots and Nike to Tommy Tippie and free coffees at Boston Tea Party. Cubbi now connects parents with over 200 brands at a time when income drops and costs rise. The idea came when Olivia's first baby was just eight weeks old, sleep deprived, pacing coffee shops with a crying newborn and feeling the financial pressure of maternity leave, she realized something. Why were new parents paying full price at one of the most expensive and vulnerable points in their life? She phoned her sister, Tanyka, and that conversation became Cubbi. What started as a scrappy no-code MVP built by two sisters has grown into a national platform with thousands of downloads and investments secured in Dragon's Den. And in perhaps one of the most iconic Found-A-Mum moments we've seen on this podcast, Olivia pitched Cubbi to the Dragons at nine months pregnant, just a week before her planned C-section. Cubbi's Links: Website: https://www.cubbi.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cubbiapp/ LinkedIn (Tanyka): https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanyka-davson-315766134/ LinkedIn (Olivia): https://www.linkedin.com/in/olivia-davson-1998ab82/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cubbi.uk/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Rosie Nixon, former editor-in-chief of Hello Magazine, shares her journey from high-profile journalism to coaching and retreats. This episode explores her career pivots, overcoming burnout, and redefining her identity and values in midlife. Topics: Career transition from magazine editor to coach Overcoming burnout and stress management The importance of values and self-awareness in reinvention Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Rosie Nixon's Journey 08:14 The Impact of Motherhood on Career Identity 11:10 Balancing Work and Family Life 14:07 Experiencing Burnout 16:37 Redefining Identity Beyond Work 19:19 Creating Supportive Work Environments for Women 30:53 Embracing Change 37:09 Planning Your Next Steps 40:45 Navigating New Opportunities 46:30 Finding Happiness in Simple Moments Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Rosie Nixon Rosie is a woman whom many of us will associate with red carpets and the glossy front covers of Hello Magazine, where she served as editor in chief for nearly 15 years. Not only that, Rosie is a mother of two, a bestselling author, a qualified coach, podcaster, and founder of Rosie's Reinvention Retreats, who has consciously redesigned her life and work around her wellbeing, values, and family. After decades in top roles at Hello, Glamour, Red, and Grazia, Rosie stepped away from the high-profile big job and into a new phase one that allows her to support other women through career pivots, burnout, and midlife transitions. Rosie Nixon's Links: Website: https://www.rosienixon.co.uk/ Retreats: https://www.rosienixon.co.uk/reinvention-retreats LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosie-nixon-89b99519/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rosiejnixon/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

How was your first Christmas with a baby? Mine was…not as I had hoped. And I think that's the same for everyone. Your life has changed fundamentally, but Christmas just keeps being Christmas, with the same old family dynamics. And I found that rough, I definitely had a Christmas Crash - if that is/was you too, you're not alone Christmas is a triggering time for everyone, and we all need to do what we gotta do to get through it. I'm sharing what I've learnt for how to manage (mitigate?) Christmas, Bailey's in hand, from the practical - I order my tree in September, yes I am that guy - to the emotional. Set the bar extremely low, your kids don't know any different. They don't know Elf on the Shelf is supposed to come with presents. Resources: TJ Power the DOSE Effect Kim Hartwell meditation Jo Woodhurst, Head of Nutrition at Ancient + Brave meditation Takeaways: Christmas is triggering for everyone, in different ways Don't put so much pressure on yourself Plan ahead as much as possible Ask for help Remember to rest when you can Set the bar low for your family Merry Christmas! Chapters: 00:00 Intro 00:30 Introduction and Reflections on Motherhood at Christmas 03:21 Navigating the Challenges of Early Motherhood 06:06 Planning and Preparing for Christmas 08:43 Balancing Family and Business During the Holidays 11:46 Self-Care and Managing Expectations 14:24 Final Thoughts and Encouragement for Listeners Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

There's a lot of expectation when you become a mum: how it will be, the friends you will make, the support you'll have, what work will look like; what Christmas will look like. The gulf between our expectations and reality is very real, and Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall is here to tell you: you're in the messy middle, and that's OK. Dr Tuesday shares her tools for navigating the huge pressure we put on ourselves as mums, particularly at this time of year, and how we can be more human to ourselves. We're in the messy middle, we're in the identity shift, we're amidst changing dynamics, so let's be a bit kinder to ourselves. If you're ready to let go of the pressure, and rediscover your joy, listen in. Takeaways: The unique challenges millennial mums face The motherhood identity shift Changing relationships, and expectations in friendship What Dr Tuesday focuses on to manage Xmas pressure What support might look like for you Creative rest through work How to rediscover your joy when it feels lost Chapters: 00:00 The Pressure of Perfectionism in Motherhood 02:45 Navigating Identity Shifts as Millennial Mothers 05:32 The Clash of Career and Motherhood 08:11 The Challenge of Finding Community 10:54 The Impact of Social Media on Expectations 13:29 The Journey of Self-Discovery 13:57 The Struggles of Being the First Among Friends 16:52 The Reality of Motherhood and Friendship 19:44 Finding Your Tribe in Unconventional Ways 22:47 Navigating Children's Interests and Activities 23:54 The Pressure of a Perfect Christmas 27:36 Creating Meaningful Holiday Traditions 31:41 Slowing Down to Appreciate the Moment 34:38 The Journey of Motherhood and Identity 39:31 Finding Support and Self-Care as a Mother 43:17 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall Dr. Tuesday is a psychologist, speaker and mum of three. With a doctorate in psychology and a career dedicated to maternal mental health, identity and self-trust, Dr. Tuesday helps mothers unpick the perfectionism and pressure that can so easily take hold, especially at Christmas. Together we explore how the festive season can amplify the invisible load for business-owning mums, the expectation to create a magical Christmas, keep everything spinning at work, and somehow stay calm, grateful, and joyful while doing it. This episode is for anyone feeling the pressure of performance and the exhaustion of the Christmas hustle. It's a conversation about letting go, coming back to what matters, and finding peace in the messy middle, both in business and at home. Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall's Links: Website: https://www.iamdrtuesday.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-tuesday-watts-overall-303877325/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdrtuesday/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

What do you do when your boss tells you your pregnancy is "inconvenient"? Start your own business. Alice Holland-Lu used her 15 years of experience in luxury fashion to launch her own brand, based on her own experiences and struggles as her body changed throughout pregnancy and beyond. Alice has built a hyper-local business model, a community and an emotionally-led brand, whilst carting her kids to the factory after school. What else can you do when you only have 2 days a week of childcare? Our conversation is full of advice for women in the trenches whilst building a business during the early years of motherhood: we should all be bringing our kids on the business journey too. Takeaways: Childcare costs whilst your business isn't paying you a salary The perks of a hyper-local business model Community building Whether fundraising is right or even possible for mums Alice's advice for women in the trenches 3 lessons she's learnt from building a business in the early years of motherhood And why we should be bringing our kids on our business journey too Resources: Muddy Stilettos Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Alice Holland-Lu and Her Journey 01:45 Transitioning from Fashion Professional to Founder 04:01 The Challenges of Motherhood and Career 06:37 The Impact of COVID-19 on Maternal Mental Health 09:16 The Birth of a Fashion Brand: Female Archetypes 12:21 Innovating for Real Bodies: The Design Philosophy 14:32 Navigating the Fashion Industry and Building a Brand 17:23 The Reality of Entrepreneurship and Customer Connection 22:47 Embracing Authenticity in Fashion 25:48 The Ethical Fashion Movement 30:08 Designing for Real Women 33:28 Navigating Life Changes Together 36:28 Building Community Through Connection 39:33 Challenges of Female Entrepreneurship Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Alice Holland-Lu Alice Holland-Lu is the founder of the Female Archetypes, a fashion brand built to support women's changing bodies through every life phase, from pregnancy to menopause and beyond. After 15 years in the fashion industry, Alice launched her business following two difficult pregnancies of traumatic birth and postnatal depression, which left her feeling a stranger in her own body. Nothing fit, literally or emotionally, and the seed of a business idea was planted. Her garments adapt from size UK 8 to 18 with thoughtful design features like breathable mesh, deep pockets, and underarm ventilation, supporting both form and function for real life with kids. Alice Holland-Lu's Links: Website: https://thefemalearchetypes.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicehollandlu/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefemalearchetypes/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Trigger Warning: there is a brief discussion of maternal mental health and suicide. 2025 has gone really fast, and it has been A Lot. There have been a lot of lessons, and I'm sharing 3 of mine in the hope that it will encourage you to reflect, celebrate how far you've come and recognise the challenges you've faced. Bonus lesson? Don't ask ChatGPT to tell you what you've learnt, before you ask yourself! I'll share the 3 tiered lessons AI told me I've learnt this year - and as with everything AI does, the answers were pretty bland, even when challenged. It's a bit of an emotional one from me this week, and Trigger Warning: there is a brief discussion of maternal mental health and suicide. Resources: Why I don't do New Year's Resolutions Anna Mathur episode Maternal Mental Health Alliance Takeaways: Why I don't do resolutions, I do reflections Results from AI are always bland, and need to be challenged An emotional visit to the Also Motherhood Maternal Mental Health Alliance exhibition My actual learnings from 2025, not AI Where I still have work to do The new wellbeing habit I'm sharing with my kids Chapters: 00:30 Introduction and Reflections on Recording at Night 02:37 Annual Check-In and Personal Insights 05:03 Exploring Learnings from AI and Personal Growth 07:32 Navigating Challenges and Support in Business 10:08 Emotional Reflections and Community Support 12:26 Personal Growth and Future Aspirations 15:19 Final Thoughts and Looking Ahead to 2026 Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Kira Mahal has never taken the conventional route - from holding a marketing event in lieu of interviewing for jobs, to leaving a lucrative finance career with no plan, no savings and no clear vision. Self-described as "barking mad", Kira and her husband went all into their business. On the cusp of a life and business changing corporate contract, the world went into lockdown and they lost £1.8million in VC funding. Pivoting back to their B2C business, Kira turned to the journals she'd been keeping along the way and put into practice what she learnt from her experience. If you're thinking about taking the leap without a clear plan, VC funding, or the endless tension that is being a founder and a mum, listen in. Takeaways: Kira's career journey from Young Enterprise, always taking the unconventional route to the idea for MotivatePT Going all in without a clear vision or plan - both Kira and her husband! VC funding - the barriers and why it isn't for everyone Crystalising your business vision by making mistakes and testing the market Starting a second corporate arm, VC funding and the pandemic Refocusing on the original business and growing more sustainably Journalling and the insights it gave Kira, reality v rose tinted glasses of the moment Kira's personal, and the wider culture's, changing attitude to wellness We're not just building a business, we're building a life Resources: Young Enterprise: www.young-enterprise.org.uk/ Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Kira Mahal and MotivatePT 02:36 Kira's Journey from Banking to Entrepreneurship 05:32 The Birth of MotivatePT: A Personal Mission 08:14 Navigating the Challenges of Bootstrapping a Business 11:02 The Shift to Women-Centric Wellness 13:51 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Growth 16:34 Funding Challenges and the VC Landscape 19:24 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 24:15 Navigating Postpartum Challenges 26:28 The Rollercoaster of VC Funding 28:20 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business 30:31 Journaling Through Uncertainty 31:58 Pivoting During Crisis 36:33 Building a New Business Model 37:06 Balancing Motherhood and Ambition 42:14 Finding Joy in Wellness 45:44 Future Plans for Motivate PT Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Kira Mahal Kira Mahal is the founder and CEO of MotivatePT, a tech-enabled fitness platform helping women build strength, confidence, and long-lasting wellness through every stage of life. From launching her business in a ski chalet to rebuilding it during the pandemic while pregnant, Kira's journey is full of resilience, reinvention and raw honesty. Her story speaks to every mother who's tried to hold a baby with one hand and a business with the other. Motivate PT is now a leading UK wellness company with over 40 female-focused coaches delivering 1,300-plus sessions monthly. But behind the scenes is a deeply personal mission to make fitness accessible, empowering and sustainable for women, particularly those navigating pregnancy, postpartum and perimenopause. Kira Mahal's Links: Website: https://motivatept.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiramahal/ Instagram(Kira): https://www.instagram.com/kiramahal/ Instagram(Motivate PT): https://www.instagram.com/motivatept_uk/ Podcast: https://podfollow.com/1705419713 Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Rachel and I met on the Goldman Sachs 10KSB programme in February and instantly gravitated towards another. Both mums, both struggling with being away from family, but determined to grow our businesses, despite all the challenges that motherhood/founderhood bring. My conversation with Rachel is almost excoriatingly honest about the impact of motherhood on her business, and herself. These are the conversations we need to have with women, founders, mums and would-be mums. Because the internet will tell you, you can have it all, but the reality isn't quite like that. The economy, the strength of your team and your business plan, mum guilt, resilience, self-awareness as a business owner, and why you might be the obstacle to growth: it's a big conversation. Takeaways: Rachel's career journey from hustling teenager to market stall to e-commerce The transition between young, "fun" business and becoming an authority figure The huge personal transition of becoming a mum in a wider context of huge economic uncertainty The struggle of being a founder-led brand when you're a mum, you're exhausted and you just don't want to be on camera! Running a business means managing people and their very real, not always business-related, problems How Rachel's business had been impacted by motherhood, and the team not being where/who she needed them to be How Rachel's experiences in business are shaping the growth (or not growth) of her family What needs to change to support mums in the workplace and into becoming a business owner The resilience Rachel's long-term health condition has given her Rachel's vision for the future, and why she might not be what the business needs Where she finds joy Resources: SuperScalers: https://www.superscalers.world/ Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Rachel Hanretty and Mademoiselle Macaron 02:10 The Journey from Paris to Entrepreneurship 05:01 Building a Brand: From Market Stall to E-commerce 07:40 Navigating Leadership and Team Dynamics 10:00 The Impact of Motherhood on Business Identity 12:41 Challenges of Balancing Business and Parenting 15:07 The Cost of Living Crisis and Its Effects 17:22 The Pressure of Being a Founder Influencer 20:12 Realities of Managing a People Business 20:46 Navigating Maternity Challenges in Business 22:13 Balancing Motherhood and Business Ownership 24:48 The Emotional Toll of Motherhood on Business 27:31 Guilt and the Struggle for Balance 30:10 The Impact of Family Planning on Business 32:17 Gender Differences in Parenting and Business 34:41 Support Systems for Mothers in Business 37:37 Resilience Through Health Challenges 39:28 Vision for Future Growth 41:23 Finding Joy Amidst Chaos Links: Website: https://www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Rachel Hanretty Rachel Hanretty founder of Mademoiselle Macaron an Edinburgh based business inspired by her time living in Paris and known for producing up to 20,000 macarons each week. With high profile clients like MAC Cosmetics, Moet & Chandon, and even an order for the set of the Barbie movie, Rachel's handcrafted patisserie has become a go-to indulgence across the UK. But her macaron story is more about the beautiful product. It's about starting from scratch. It's about identity and it's about navigating the complexity of building a brand while becoming a mother. Rachel studied English and French at university and while living in Paris, fell in love with macarons. Trained at the Alain Ducasse Cookery School, she brought that Parisian perfectionism back to Scotland and started making macarons at home, eventually launching her business from a single market stall in 2013. And today is a thriving seven figure e-commerce brand. Yet as her business grew, Rachel's personal life evolved too. Becoming a mother reshaped her relationship with her company and she has been refreshingly honest about how hard that shift has been, talking openly about guilt, identity loss and how parenting has impacted her business, both practically and emotionally. She's also navigated health challenges, including epilepsy while leading her team and brand. Rachel Hanretty's Links: Website: https://mademoisellemacaron.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelhanretty/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/madmacaron/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mademoisellemacaron Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MademoiselleMacaronUk Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

I don't do New Year's Resolutions. December isn't a straightforward month for me, personally, and my energy levels in January after juggling school holidays and all the Christmas fun just aren't up to "starting the new year strong". So I've restructured my business year, and my mindset to fit my realities. In this episode I'm sharing: Why I'm so anti end of year hustle culture Why we should all be putting less pressure on ourselves How I've shaped my year to fit better with my energy levels, and financials Rebel with me. More on Why I don't do New Year's Resolutions Takeaways: Christmas shift in mum admin begins in November Adjusting from mum heavy to business heavy workloads can be tough Why I don't do New Year's Resolutions How I've reshaped my business year to match my energy levels Pairing my financial new year to my conceptual new year December is a month with a lot of pressure - don't make it harder for yourself Chapters: 00:30 Embracing the Shift to Q4 Planning 02:19 Redefining Goal Setting Beyond January 06:23 Navigating Business Pressures During the Holidays 09:07 Celebrating a Non-Traditional Q4 Hustle Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Something a little different this week. I was at the UK Virtual Assistant awards last week celebrating the industry and gratefully receiving a couple of awards, on behalf of the business and the podcast team! While I was there, I did some live interviews with some incredible VAs and business women, who also happen to be mums, my industry peers and friends. They are sharing their wisdom and experiences of building businesses, working flexibly and prioritising their family. It was a very fun (by which I mean loud) atmosphere, so apologies for the background noise levels. Thanks to Amanda Johnson, host of the UK VA Awards (and last week's guest!) for kindly giving me permission to record, and to the wonderful women I spoke to: Sarah Szekir-Papasavva: www.aptva.comBeverley Edwards: www.be-virtual.co.ukStefanie Clarke: www.jotterbox.co.uk Holly Copsey: www.virtuallypriceless.co.uk Takeaways: The flexibility that comes with owing your schedule as a founder or freelancer Why you might want to consider the agency model How to deal with mum guilt Kids are sometimes the push you need to take the leap Why networking is so important to small business owners Chapters: 00:30 Introduction 02:32 Sarah Szekir-Papasavva 04:58 Beverley Edwards 07:43 Stefanie Clarke 10:02 Holly Copsey Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Trigger warning: This episode was recorded during Baby Loss Awareness Week and includes discussion of miscarriage and baby loss. Please take care of yourself. This conversation is long overdue. Amanda Johnson, or The Amanda Johnson as she's known in the Virtual Assistant industry, is founder and coach at the VA Training Academy, host of the UK VA Awards and my mentor. Before becoming a Titan of the VA industry, Amanda had a 23 year career in the military, until personal tragedy changed her priorities. Despite not personally inventing the field (listen in!) Amanda pivoted to becoming a Virtual Assistant, growing an agency and acquiring the training business and awards. We spoke about how grief shapes you, business as a coping mechanism, what to do if a client won't pay and why perceptions of the VA industry are often wrong, for both good and bad. Trigger warning: This episode was recorded during Baby Loss Awareness Week and includes discussion of miscarriage and baby loss. Please take care of yourself. Takeaways: Amanda's career journey from joining the military at 17 to exit Her fertility struggles and how loss changed Amanda's priorities and career How she came to the VA industry as a side effect of grief Building a business as a coping mechanism What to do when a client refuses to pay Why we should aim for work/life integration rather than balance Selling a business Why the VA industry can often be misunderstood, or limited by perceptions Why it's a great career for military spouses especially Amanda's experience of grief and its echoes years later Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Amanda Johnson's Journey 02:41 From Military to Entrepreneur: A New Path 05:20 The Impact of Personal Tragedy on Career Choices 07:48 Navigating Grief and Finding Purpose 10:24 The Birth of a Business Idea 12:54 Launching a Virtual Assistant Business 15:25 The Challenges of Balancing Motherhood and Business 17:32 Building a Community and Supporting Others 20:09 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 29:54 Work-Life Integration vs. Balance 31:49 Coaching with Tough Love and Empathy 34:43 The Importance of Body Language in Coaching 36:03 Transitioning from VA Agency to Training Academy 39:51 Expectations vs. Reality in the VA Industry 43:09 Gender Dynamics in the VA Industry 46:06 Supporting Military Spouses and Veterans 50:12 Navigating Grief and Finding Joy 57:39 Success Redefined: Flexibility and Family Support Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Amanda Johnson Amanda Johnson is a Royal Navy veteran turned entrepreneur, NICU advocate and the woman behind the VA Training Academy, also known as VACT, the go to training provider for the VA industry. After 23 years in the military, Amanda left service following a personal tragedy. She went on to found Your Executive Secretary, a Virtual Assistant business she grew while juggling babies and young children expanding from a solo operation to a team of 17 before selling the business in 2016. She then shifted her focus fully to VACT embarking on a mission to empower women, especially mothers, military spouses and career changes to build flexible, sustainable VA businesses. In 2021, she also acquired the UKVA Conference and Awards. Amanda's coaching style is practical, honest and full of tough love, grounded in lived experience and a deep understanding of both business and life's complexities. Amanda Johnson's Links: VACT Website: https://vatrainingacademy.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandaconstancejohnson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vatrainingacademy/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VirtualAssistantTrainingAcademyUK/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

We're wrapping up the Assistant miniseries with a big-picture conversation, the future of the assistant and VA industry. I've been in this world for over 15 years, and in that time I've seen the role change again and again, from the 2009 crash, to the explosion of tech tools, and now to AI. In this episode, I'm talking about where I see things going, what makes our work truly irreplaceable, and why assistants need to be visible, strategic partners (not an exec's "secret weapon"). I'm also sharing my thoughts on niching, the growing operational side of our roles, and the importance of keeping our skills sharp as the industry evolves. This is episode four of a four-part mini series for the Assistant community, each episode is accompanied by a free downloadable resource. Download your free resource on the future of the Assistant industry here: thought leaders in the space, skills you should be developing and more Listen to the rest of the series: Inbox Zero How to find clients Your gold standard onboarding process Resources mentioned: Fiona Young, Carve AI Your VA Journey: Start Here Takeaways Brief intro to the Assistant role Glass elevators for men in a pink industry Misconceptions about the VA industry The core services that VAs provide Why Assistants need to be visible within their organisations Increasing specialisation for Assistants How AI is shaping the industry Why you should be investing in your own development as an Assistant Chapters 00:30 Introduction to the Assistant Industry 00:51 The Evolution of the Assistant Role 02:41 Challenges in a Predominantly Female Industry 04:39 Networking and Misconceptions in the VA World 07:00 The Importance of Visibility and Value 09:13 The Role of Technology and AI in Assistance 10:31 Niche Specialisation in the Assistant Role 12:13 Transitioning into the Assistant Industry Links:Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Onboarding is my area of geek, my Mastermind subject. In this week's episode I am sharing my best practice tips for creating a great onboarding process, why it's so important, where your focus should be throughout and why you should be trying to remove yourself from it as much as possible. This is episode three of a four-part mini series for the Assistant community, each episode is accompanied by a free downloadable resource. Download your free onboarding checklist here Listen to the rest of the series: Inbox Zero How to find clients Resources mentioned: My Expensive Business Mistake episode here Takeaways Why onboarding is so crucial to your business What you should prioritise throughout the process Personalisation and automation Removing yourself from the process as a business owner When to review your own process Why offboarding is just as important Chapters 00:30 Introduction to a topic I love 02:48 The importance of a thorough onboarding process 05:43 Creating a client-centric onboarding experience 08:10 continuous Improvement and team involvement 10:07 The significance of offboarding Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

The question I get asked the most by Virtual Assistants is: 'How do I find clients?' There is no secret recipe - it takes time, it takes work, and it takes trying things out. I'm sharing how I found my first client, where I've invested money and time to find them and the one thing that really sets me apart when it comes to sales. In December I'm hosting a panel for the Strategic PA Network: Clients for Keeps: Building a sustainable client base and coworking afterwards, if you'd like more client list building tips and to extend your network click here. This is episode one of a four-part mini series for the Assistant community, each episode is accompanied by a free downloadable resource or event invitation Click here for your invite to the Clients For Keeps panel and coworking Listen to the rest of the series: Inbox Zero Resources mentioned: EA How To community My conversation with Catherine Gladwyn on She's Alright When You Get To Know Her Takeaways There's no secret sauce when it comes to finding clients Why women need to think of themselves as 'salesy' How I got my first client Why you should be asking for testimonials along with your rate Being shameless Where I invested to help my sales pitch How I stand out in my sales Join me for a panel on building your client list Chapters 00:30 Introduction to Virtual Assistant Business 02:59 The Importance of Sales in VA Business 06:07 Building Relationships and Networking 09:24 The Power of Follow-Ups 12:08 Testing Strategies for Client Acquisition Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

I came close to cancelling the podcast. In this episode I tell you why, and why I think it's healthy to reevaluate every so often as a business owner. But we're back! And with something slightly different. A miniseries for my Assistant community especially, but with a lot of value for anyone starting a business. This week I'm sharing my tips for Inbox Zero - why it's so important and how to get there. This is episode one of a four-part mini series for the Assistant community, each episode is accompanied by a free downloadable resource or event invitation Download your free Guide to Inbox Zero here Resources mentioned: Dr Claire Ashley, The Burnout Doctor Rachel Harris, Accountant She Guest episode on the Lemonade Leaders podcast Takeaways: A moment of honesty and why I thought about cancelling the podcast Avoiding burnout and asking for help My passion for the Assistant industry and introducing our new miniseries Why Inbox Zero is so important for your stress levels How to manage your inbox effectively Where to find your free download Chapters: 00:30 Introduction and Personal Reflections 02:59 Navigating Business and Personal Life 05:27 The Challenges of Podcasting and Burnout 08:02 Reigniting Passion and Industry Focus 10:37 Inbox Management Strategies 16:36 Final Tips and Conclusion Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Have you heard of operational overload? Maybe not, but chances are you know how it feels. This week my guests are Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins of Positive Entrepreneurship, authors of the The True Cost of Female Entrepreneurship report. The report makes for stark, but not surprising, reading - 83% of female founders are experiencing high stress, 66% experience extreme loneliness, we have 75% greater responsibility for the household, but 97% of us enjoy the journey. We know the system is not built for us, we know the challenges we face as female founders. Nonie and Yvonne are here to tell us we are not alone, and the practical steps we can take to protect our wellbeing and ultimately improve our performance as entrepreneurs. Takeaways: The genesis of the Positive Entrepreneurship report and the problems and solutions it identified Why we need systemic change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem Hormonal changes and their impact on wellbeing and performance Operational overload and isolation Self care is a strategic and radical act for female founders Purpose can be a double edged sword Failing and non attachment Six best practices for female founders for their performance and wellbeing Chapters: 02:29 The Journey of Collaboration 05:05 Researching Female Founders' Experiences 08:01 Understanding the Ecosystem for Female Entrepreneurs 11:46 Hormonal Impacts on Female Founders 14:20 Isolation in Female Entrepreneurship 17:00 The Importance of Support Systems 19:47 The Burden of Operational Overload 24:17 Finding Joy and Self-Care in Business 26:16 Finding Joy and Self-Care in Entrepreneurship 27:45 The Double-Edged Sword of Purpose 29:29 The Paradox of Enjoying the Entrepreneurial Journey 32:48 Starting the Journey of Self-Care 34:46 Learning from Failure and Growth 36:53 Best Practices for Flourishing Female Founders 42:11 Encouragement for Overwhelmed Entrepreneurs 45:43 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Resources: Download the The True Cost of Female Entrepreneurship report: https://positiveentrepreneurship.co/report/ Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins Nonie White is a positive psychology practitioner, researcher and founder coach. Yvonne Biggins is a serial entrepreneur, founder, coach and positive psychology expert. Together they are the authors of one of the most insightful research studies on female entrepreneurship to date and they are on a mission to change the entrepreneurial ecosystem to work from a place of wellbeing, particularly for female founders. Nonie and Yvonne's Links: Positive Entrepreneurship Website:https://positiveentrepreneurship.co/ Yvonne Website: https://www.yvonnebiggins.com/ Nonie Website: https://noniewhite.com/ Positive Entrepreneurship LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/positive-entrepreneurship/ Yvonne LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvonnebiggins/ Nonie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nonie-m-c-white/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

My guest on the podcast this week is Anna Bailey, founder of the Assistant community Pally Talk. She launched her business and 2 months later had her first baby, in her own words, the last year has been 'hardcore'. Anna has a lot of practical insight into navigating a business and new baby concurrently - this is your sign to start sliding into people's DMs on LinkedIn. We spoke really honestly about social media v reality, not only of motherhood, but the assistant world and when, for Anna, revenue finally started coming in from the business. For me, there's a theme - you will get through it. Whether that's the newborn stage, the not making any money stage or being too busy for friendships stage, you'll come through and it will get better. Takeaways: Anna's career journey from early entrepreneurship to the assistant world Why having a mentor is so important for new assistants How Pally Talks has changed as a business since inception Navigating a new business and newborn concurrently Anna's first revenue month and how she's funding the business What Anna's work week looks like Why workplaces are failing new mothers TikTok v reality in the assistant world Anna's sister's experience of baby loss and its impact Why we should all be DMing people The hardest part of the first year of motherhood Newborns aren't for everyone, but you'll get through it Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Pally Talk and Anna Bailey 04:53 Anna's Journey from Assistant to Entrepreneur 09:33 Navigating Motherhood and Business Launch 14:12 Building a Community for Assistants 18:44 Challenges of Balancing Work and Family Life 23:19 The Future of Pally Talk and Business Growth 23:37 Building a Virtual Assistant Business 27:04 Navigating Personal Loss and Support 32:50 Finding Joy in Motherhood 36:26 Challenges of the Newborn Stage 40:33 Future Plans for Pally Talk Resources: Amanda Johnson VA Training Academy: https://vatrainingacademy.co.uk/ Baby Loss Club: https://www.instagram.com/baby.loss.club/ LinkedIn Sales Navigator: https://business.linkedin.com/en-gb/sales-solutions/cx/23/08/linkedin-sales-navigator Dripify: https://dripify.io/ Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Anna Bailey Anna Bailey is the founder of Pally Talk, a platform designed to empower female assistants through community, flexible job opportunities and a fresh modern approach to networking. Launched in March, 2024, just weeks before giving birth to her son, Pally Talk reflects Anna's deep belief that mothers returning to work deserve flexibility, empowerment and support. What started as a place to help moms explore freelance assistant roles has rapidly evolved into a vibrant community of hybrid, remote and part-time professionals sharing resources, job leads and real life advice. Anna Bailey's Links: Website: https://pallytalk.com/ Instagram: (Pally Talk): https://www.instagram.com/pallytalk/ Instagram: (Anna Bailey): https://www.instagram.com/annabelpbailey/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pallytalk/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

In 5 years I've gone from a one woman Virtual Assistant 'agency' to a team of 36. And I have learnt A Lot. Much of which I have learnt the hard way. In today's episode, I'm sharing my 5 biggest learnings (there are so many still to talk about, I feel like I could do a whole season on it!) from the last 5 years. I've learnt from mistakes, I've learnt from the people around me, some of these lessons I am still learning, and might be a lifelong process. Resources: Nick Elston: https://nickelston.com/ Anna Marthur episode: https://bumptobusinessowner.com/s3-episode-2-it-was-a-step-up Takeaways Not everything will or needs to be done now or perfectly New practical structures to support next 5 years of growth Taking things slow and getting it right is more important than rushing it Investing in yourself is crucial for business success You can't support others unless you are taking care of yourself Taking a step back can lead to greater progress What worries you today will change as the business grows Clear communication and expectations are vital Personal growth through therapy and coaching is invaluable Celebrate your wins! Chapters 00:30 Introduction and Reflections on Five Years in Business 05:52 Investing in Personal Growth 11:31 Evolving Worries in Business 17:11 Conclusion and Call to Action Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Be honest - how is your poo? My guest this week is Lisa Macfarlane, co-founder of The Gut Stuff, and she wants you to take better care of your gut. Lisa explains why gut health is so important, some easy wins to improve your own and why she went from Love Island DJ to gut evangelist. We also talk about the nuts and bolts of scaling a business - from building a brand and community as market research for the business, to pre-seed and VC funding, and creating an ecosystem with 3 different business arms. Lisa is passionate about the policies we as business owners need to create to support women and their families, it's so inspiring to hear. And, of course, we talk about joy - Friday martinis and dips anyone? Takeaways: Why gut health is so crucial for our overall well-being 3 things you can do to take care of your gut health Lisa's career journey from theatre to Love Island DJ to The Gut Stuff Building resilience and the insecurity of the entertainment industry Creating a brand and community - followed by a business Pre-seed and VC funding Creating an ecosystem with 3 different business arms Why you shouldn't compare your business to others Mat leave as a business owner, and creating policies that actually work for women Friday martinis and dips Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Gut Health and Personal Journeys 10:09 The Evolution of a Brand: From DJing to Gut Health 18:51 Funding and Building a Business in Gut Health 28:12 Navigating Work and Motherhood 33:29 The Importance of Maternity Policies 36:15 Understanding the Needs of New Mothers 40:20 Balancing Business and Family Life 43:46 Future Aspirations and Business Growth Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Lisa Macfarlane Lisa MacFarlane is co-founder of The Gut Stuff, Mum, bestselling author, Virgin Radio host, and yes, former Love Island: Aftersun DJ. Alongside her identical twin sister, Alana, Lisa made her name, DJing at major events from the Olympics to Simon Cowell's ball before landing a TV role that made them household names. But it was a chance decision to volunteer in gut health research at King College London that changed everything. Despite sharing 100 % of their DNA, Lisa and Alana discovered their gut microbiomes were only 30 to 40 % similar, a finding that blew their minds and kicked off what's now become a nationwide movement. Their mission is to make gut health accessible, affordable, and most importantly, relatable. With a refreshingly no-nonsense approach, the Gut Stuff has become a trusted brand across books, workplace wellbeing, pop-ups, and the hit podcast Chatting Shit. Not only that, Lisa is a mum of one and pregnant with her second child. Lisa Macfarlane's Links: Website: https://thegutstuff.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegutstuff Instagram (The Mac Twins): https://www.instagram.com/themactwins/ Instagram (The Gut Stuff): https://www.instagram.com/thegutstuff Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

The 5 stages of burnout are very familiar to me. I've been there, and even when I thought I had learnt my lessons, narrowly swerved burning out again. As a mum, especially a mum with a business, I'm sure at least a few of the stages are familiar to you too. My guest on this week's episode is Dr Claire Ashely, aka The Burnout Doctor. Claire was a highly successful doctor, used to pretty extreme levels of stress. And then with 2 small kids, a house renovation and a difficult work environment, she burnt out. Claire is now fully recovered and shares the signs, symptoms and means to recovery to help us intervene and swerve burnout before it's too late. Most of all - you will get through it. Takeaways: Dr Claire's experience of burnout - it can completely change your identity Work is the catalyst for burnout, but it's not just a workplace issue, it affects every area of life Asking for help is key - the earlier the better Burnout is isolating, you need support networks The 5 stages of burnout Burnout changes the structure and function of your brain Self compassion and time are key in recovery Attachment theory - you are meeting your kids' needs Recovery isn't a linear process The interplay between neurodiversity and burnout, especially for women 3 factors in recovery for mums and entrepreneurs Resources: The Burnout Doctor BOOK: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/the-burnout-doctor-a-practical-guide-to-understanding-your-symptoms-and-recovery-dr-claire-ashley/7680922?ean=9781399412803 Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Burnout and Personal Journeys 02:56 Claire's Journey Through Burnout 06:49 Understanding the Stages of Burnout 17:56 Recognizing the Signs of Burnout 27:36 The Importance of Community and Support 32:20 Recovery and Self-Compassion 34:56 Navigating Parenting Challenges 39:24 The Journey of Recovery 46:56 Understanding Neurodiversity and Burnout 52:39 Realistic Recovery Strategies for Busy Moms 55:51 Finding Joy After Burnout Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Dr. Claire Ashley Dr. Claire Ashley is a GP, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur, content creator, author of The Burnout Doctor, and mum of two. Claire's work is shaping how we think about burnout, especially for those of us balancing motherhood, business, and burnout recovery. With over 20 years of clinical experience and a powerful personal journey through anxiety and burnout, she now dedicates her career to helping others understand, prevent and recover from burnout. Dr. Claire Ashley's Links: Website: https://www.drclaireashley.com/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@drclaireashley Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drclaireashley LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drclaireashley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Last year I decided to push myself and try something new for me and my business. As a founder and mum of 2, I don't have time to be out there relationship building rather than selling. So I tried cold sales - and it worked! Cold sales have, sometimes justifiably, a bad rap - I'm sharing my worst experiences from both sides of the sale. But it really worked for me. In this episode I share my conversion rates, my 'how to' and the mindset tips that helped me succeed. Resources: LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/ Dripify: https://dripify.io/ Takeaways Coldselling - maybe it's time to try it The worst thing that happened to me when I tried cold selling Choose the right platform - LinkedIn v Instagram What is a good conversion rate for sales Be prepared - it can be a huge time commitment How not to build relationships My cold selling approach - a how to Mindset tips and how to handle rejection Chapters 01:00 Introduction to Podcasting Challenges 02:02 The Reality of Cold Selling 02:50 Experiences with Cold Selling 04:44 Navigating Relationship Building and Sales 06:16 Lessons from Sales Calls 07:58 The Direct Approach to Sales 10:41 Handling Rejection in Sales 12:14 Consistency in Communication and Sales 13:24 Conclusion and Reflection on Cold Selling Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

This week on Bump to Business Owner, I'm joined by Danielle Lauren, creative powerhouse, former media exec, and founder of Way Too Honest, a business born from the depths of postpartum struggle and radical maternal honesty. From working at the top of global media giants like CNN and Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, to battling severe pre- and postnatal depression, Danielle opens up about her experience of motherhood, identity loss, and rebuilding a life and business with purpose. TRIGGER WARNING: Discussion of pre/post natal depression and suicidal thoughts Takeaways: The identity shift of matrescence and why it's so misunderstood Danielle's experience with perinatal mental health crisis and life-saving support in Australia The mismatch between external "success" and internal struggle Launching Way Too Honest: affirmation cards for new mums that blend compassion and humour The loneliness of entrepreneurship, finding support, and redefining productivity Letting go of guilt, embracing slow growth, and learning to rest Why honesty in motherhood isn't just cathartic, it can save lives Resources: Maternal Mental Health Alliance: https://maternalmentalhealthalliance.org/ The Room Where It Happens: https://theroomwhereithappens.co.uk/ Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Danielle Lauren and Her Journey 03:41 From Media to Motherhood: A Career Transition 06:28 The Reality of Motherhood: Expectations vs. Reality 09:09 Identity Shift: The Transformation of Becoming a Mother 11:57 Navigating Mental Health in Motherhood 14:57 The Importance of Compassion and Sisterhood Among Mothers 23:01 The Hidden Struggles of Motherhood 28:29 Anxiety and the Reality of Pregnancy 31:47 The Impact of Mental Health on Motherhood 37:36 Launching Way Too Honest: A New Venture 41:45 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 46:05 Understanding Maternal Mental Health 48:39 The Journey of Recovery 51:21 Innovative Ideas in Motherhood Support 55:01 Asking for Help: A Crucial Step 59:38 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Danielle Lauren Danielle Lauren is an accomplished creative force and now founder of a beautiful business that brings light and truth to one of the most misunderstood chapters of motherhood. Danielle Lauren is the founder and CEO of Way Too Honest, a brand that creates affirmation and support cards for new mums navigating the fourth trimester, also known as matrescence. Backed by endorsements from Katherine Ryan, Lucy Jones, Zoe Blaskey and Dr. Ellie Cannon, and for every box sold, a donation goes to the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, helping to drive meaningful change in perinatal mental health. Prior to launching her business, Danielle was a powerhouse in the media and tech industries, working as VP of Story for Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, Innovation Ambassador at Warner Media, and Head of Content Strategy at CNN. She's spoken at global events from Harvard to TEDx with a deep focus on AI, Web3, and the future of storytelling. But as we'll hear today, it was Danielle's own journey through a devastating postpartum period and identity shift that fueled her desire to create her business. Danielle Lauren's Links: Website: https://www.waytoohonest.co/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@waytoohonestmom Instagram (Way Too Honest Mom): https://www.instagram.com/waytoohonestmom/ Instagram (Way Too Honest): https://www.instagram.com/waytoohonest.co/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

How do you stay motivated to keep going when times get tough in your business? Good question. And an increasingly important one as the economy continues to fluctuate with tariffs, UK legislation and uncertainty creep in. In January I was in a difficult situation with my business, but I got through it and learnt a lot. This week, I'm sharing my tips for keeping going when times are tough in your business. Takeaways The realities of being a working mum Keeping going when times get hard in your business Trumps tariffs are worrying for many founders March 2025 was my best month in business so far January was a real struggle What I learnt My tips for getting through difficult times in business Chapters 00:00 Embracing the Chaos of Motherhood and Business 01:19 Navigating Tough Times in Business 07:34 Finding Community and Normalizing Struggles Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

This week on Bump To Business Owner, I'm joined by Ning Cheah, founder of The Beauty Crop, mum of two, and former banker turned beauty entrepreneur. What started as a side hustle to solve her own skin struggles has grown into a multi-million dollar brand, stocked by the likes of Boots and ASOS. In this honest and wide-ranging chat, Ning shares how burnout led her to rethink everything, the fertility struggles she faced while building a business, and the two very different maternity leaves that followed. She opens up about the realities of scaling, the pressure of cash flow, and why she chose crowdfunding and bank loans over giving away equity 👀 We talk mum guilt and what we can learn from men, support systems, and why she only ever plans three years ahead. Plus how she's learning to let go, delegate, and make space for joy (think K-dramas and sheet masks - the dream). Takeaways: Ning's career journey from finance to side hustle to million dollar business Stress makes us neglect our wellbeing when we need it the most Ning's personal skin struggles made her identify a gap in the market Naivety can be a blessing for founders Why Ning chose crowdfunding and bank loans over equity funding Fertility struggles and mat leaves as a business owner Mum guilt and what we can learn from men The challenges of scaling a business and the realities of working with retailers Why Ning doesn't plan more than 3 years ahead Support networks and what a working week looks like Where Ning finds joy Resources: Crowd2Fund: https://www.crowd2fund.com/ Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Ning Cheah Ning Cheah is a mother of two and the founder and CEO of The Beauty Crop, a clean beauty brand that has become known for its high performing plant-based products that don't compromise on fun, affordability or ethics. With a background in chemical engineering and a high-powered career in investment banking behind her, Ning's personal struggle with eczema and cystic acne led her to launch The Beauty Crop in 2014. Now a multi-million pound business, it's a brand that crops out harmful ingredients whilst delivering vegan, cruelty-free, nutrient-rich cosmetics in sustainable packaging. Since launching in 2014, it's become a cult favourite, stocked in major retailers like Boots, Beauty Bay, ASOS and Urban Outfitters. Ning Cheah's Links: Website: https://thebeautycrop.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ning-cheah-4310642/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebeautycrop/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thebeautycrop Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

What is your story? What is your super power? What do you want to be known for? In today's episode of the podcast I'm giving away all my PR tips. In the last 5 years me and my business have been featured in Grazia The Guardian The Independent The Daily Mail Waitrose Magazine To name just a few. And all of that has been under my own steam, no PR experience, no connections. If you're looking for some PR coverage for your business, this is for you Resources Editorelle: https://www.editorielle.com/ Pressflow (FREE): https://www.pressflow.io/ Lightbulb: https://www.lightbulbhangout.com/ Rosie Davies-Smith, founder of PR Dispatch episode: https://bumptobusinessowner.com/s3-episode-7-rosie-davies-smith-pr-dispatch Jelena Skene co-founder of Press Flow episode: https://bumptobusinessowner.com/s5-e4-jelena-skene Takeaways Excellent PR coverage with no PR background Featured in Grazia, Stylist, Guardian, Metro, Clockify, Daily Mail, The Independent, The Guardian, Waitrose Magazine, Start Ups Magazine, Pally Talks You are newsworthy Why your location is important How to create a simple PR pitch deck PR platforms and resources Why you need an angle How to work with journalists Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

My guest this week is Lauren Currie OBE, mother of one, founder of 6 businesses and PTSD survivor. Lauren is a serial entrepreneur, who after being featured as the only woman on an event bill decided she needed to build something to challenge the lie of meritocracy. Her business, Upfront, was born. As a systems and organisational designer, Lauren is ideally placed to see where the holes are in our society and where we need to work on them, together. The game is rigged, it might just be that our privilege means that motherhood is the first time we really see it. Building a business whilst raising a family is a radical act. Women even working is so new for us as a society, let alone being business leaders. It's hard, but it's worth it and it will get easier. Takeaways: The lightbulb moment for Lauren's business Structural inequality and the lie of meritocracy Scarcity mindset and career choices Lauren's experiences in pregnancy, birth and PTSD Asking For Help Relocating to Europe Building a business as a mother is a radical act How to build your confidence Honouring the season you're in Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Lauren Currie Lauren is the founder of Upfront, an organization on a mission to change confidence, visibility and power for 10 million women. Thousands of women from over 50 countries have now graduated from Upfront's flagship program, The Bond. It's become the go-to to for women and organisations who want to grow confidence from the inside out. Their clients include global names like Nike, Just Eat Takeaway, the Ministry of Defence, the British Red Cross and PLEO, a true sign of the movement Lauren has built. Lauren is a sought after keynote speaker. Her goal is to help everyone in the room turn their own lights on. And she's not afraid to use her voice where it matters most. She was chair of the brilliant campaign group Pregnant Than Screwed for seven years, championing women against maternity discrimination. Her work has been recognised globally from being awarded an OBE for services to design and diversity, to being named one of Elle's Women Changing the World and one of Management Today's top businesswomen under 35. Originally from Scotland, Lauren now lives in Uppsala in Sweden with her partner and their seven-year-old son, juggling motherhood, business and a mission that only gets louder. Lauren Currie's Links: Website: https://www.weareupfront.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurencurrie/ Instagram (Lauren): https://www.instagram.com/_laurencurrie_/ Instagram (Upfront): https://www.instagram.com/upfrontglobal/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

What happens when your co-founder (and sister!) steps away and you're managing a business solo, as well as being mum to 2 kids? In this week's delicious episode I'm in conversation with Nicola Ward, founder of CakeDrop, who talks me through her experience of exactly that. Nicola has run her business incredibly intuitively and flexibly, focusing on building relationships and leaning into creativity when Covid meant a pivot. She has some incredible advice to other founders thinking about motherhood and the trade offs we as working mums make. My main takeaway? You don't need more strategy, you just need to take action. Takeaways: The unique dynamic between cofounder sisters Covid forcing you to pivot and get creative The benefits of being a small business in challenging times Relationship building Nicola's fundraising experience What happens when your cofounder steps away The trade offs working mums make - guilt and code switching Advice for founders thinking about motherhood Why you don't need more strategy Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to CakeDrop and Nicola's Journey 02:36 The Dynamic of Sister Co-Founders 05:03 Navigating the Business Landscape 07:49 Adapting to Challenges During the Pandemic 10:32 Transitioning to Solo Leadership 13:03 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 18:35 Fundraising Challenges and Experiences 19:02 Navigating Angel Investment and Fundraising Challenges 21:41 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 26:15 The Impact of Parenting on Business Perspective 28:49 Embracing the Uncertainty of Motherhood 30:45 Building Relationships with Major Brands 31:49 The Importance of Execution Over Strategy 34:01 Future Growth Plans for CakeDrop 35:06 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Nicola Ward Nicola Ward is the founder of CakeDrop, the award-winning solution bringing sweet treats to some of the UK's most exciting places, including Meta, Ladbible, Beauty Pie, and Netflix. Cake Drop specialises in branded treat experiences and automated gifting for employee birthdays and work anniversaries, making workplace celebrations seamless and delicious. Nicola's journey into entrepreneurship began alongside her sister Anna, inspired by their own experiences working in the city, where they noticed the challenges of organizing office celebrations. This insight led to the creation of CakeDrop, aiming to make office celebrations effortless and enjoyable. Nicola has faced many highs and lows on her journey, from the shift to becoming a solo founder to navigating major business challenges, including the pandemic and operational hurdles. Nicola Ward's Links: Website: https://cakedrop.london/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-ward-30404427/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cakedropldn Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

When was the last time you reflected on how far you've come? In this special birthday episode, I'm reflecting on the last five years - Motherhood, trauma, recovery, business, COVID, and giving myself the advice I needed five years ago. My business and motherhood journey are intrinsically linked, and in this period of my life - out of the baby years and able to put more energy into business growth, it's been emotional to see how much I've achieved. Take a moment to look back on what you've achieved, everything you've experienced, good and bad, and celebrate yourself. Resources Snoop Dogg: https://youtu.be/NfF3bThOW0Q?si=I-ASqOrYhQMzIK4- Takeaways The advice I'd give myself Building a business through the baby years Your business can be a lifeline in difficult times Working on yourself will make you a better leader Rediscovering yourself post motherhood Take time to reflect on how far you've come It's important to be selfish sometimes Learn to ask for what you need Chapters 01:00 Celebrating Growth and Reflection 03:08 Navigating the Baby Years 05:26 The Intersection of Business and Motherhood 08:02 Finding Purpose and Community 10:51 Empowerment Through Business 13:22 Lessons from the Journey 16:13 Gratitude and Moving Forward Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

What was the lightbulb moment for your business? Did you recognise it and mark it as the life-changing moment it was? Kat Wellum-Kent, founder of Fractional Finance and one of the top 50 women in accounting took a selfie that day, because she knew 'this was the thing'. From her 'dream job' at a Big Four accountancy firm, to starting her business, Kat has had some incredible support in her career journey: not only a fantastic mentor, but a strong spiritual practice. She's also navigating a husband in the army who was often away for 6 months at a time, and a youngest who has recently been diagnosed with autism. Takeaways: Kat's dreamt of becoming an accountant, but realised that becoming a partner wasn't for her Her experience of both mat leaves employed by one of the Big Four Kat's lightbulb moment for her business The importance of mentorship Adapting and flexing in response to Kat's partner's Army career and how she navigates space for herself and her business too Kat's spiritual wellbeing journey and how it's supported her in business and personal growth Autism test and supporting the whole family Replicating a business model and bringing in co-founders Finding joy in the everyday moments Chapters: 01:09 Career Path and Transition to Entrepreneurship 04:23 Navigating Motherhood and Corporate Life 09:28 The Challenges of Balancing Family and Work 14:21 The Birth of Fractional Finance 19:32 Building a Business with Ambition 24:46 Reflections on Resilience and Growth 27:12 The Importance of Self-Care and Personal Time 30:58 Exploring Spirituality and Personal Growth 36:35 Navigating Parenting Challenges and Autism Awareness 40:05 Future Plans for Fractional Finance and Business Growth 42:38 Finding Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Kat Wellum-Kent Kat Wellam-Kent is founder of Fractional Finance and one of the top 50 women in accounting. Kat's accounting career started in the Big Four, but after becoming a mother, she found the demands of corporate finance incompatible with family life. She transitioned to a smaller practice where she worked closely with small and early stage businesses. There she saw a critical gap; businesses were missing out on the financial strategy they needed to grow successfully. This inspired her to launch Fractional Finance in January 2023 an outsourced finance director service that provides startups and scaling businesses with expert financial guidance without the cost of a full-time hire. Kat and her team help business owners understand their numbers, make informed decisions and drive sustainable growth. All of course, while navigating motherhood. Kat started her business while raising two children and managing life as the wife of a military husband who spends long periods of time away. Beyond finance, Kat also has a belief in manifesting, wellness and even crystals. Kat Wellum-Kent's Links: Website: https://fractionalfinance.co.uk/ LinkedIn (Kat): https://www.linkedin.com/in/katwellum-kent/ LinkedIn (Fractional Finance): https://www.linkedin.com/company/fractionalfinanceltd/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fractionalfinance/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

This week I am unpacking the sometimes controversial topic of multi-level marketing schemes. I have been targeted by representatives of various MLMs 3 times in my life; because I'm a woman, with a performance background (aka poor!), and a mother. I was targeted within months of having my first child. I share: - The ways I've been targeted - How to recognise MLMs for what they are - How to avoid them The first rule of MLMs? Deny it's an MLM. Resources Doing it For the Kids: https://www.doingitforthekids.net/ Secrets of the Multi Level Millionaire: https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/p076n2hg On Becoming a God in Central Florida: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/on-becoming-a-god-in-central-florida/umc.cmc.67y9928dso088or48kueobu81 Not mentioned on the pod, but also worth a listen! The Dream: https://open.spotify.com/show/69SbOSdWtOYpJArpX6KczL?si=f5eaa0c57b9443ff Takeaways Why Caroline is so passionate about MLMs MLMs often target women, who are more vulnerable to their 'opportunities' Why you should research MLMs, their origins and who ultimately is making the money Personal experiences of being targeted by MLM recruiters Red flags to recognise if you're being targeted Ethical concerns surrounding MLM practices Documentaries and shows to watch if you're also interested in MLMs Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Unexpected Solo Episode 02:15 Understanding Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) and Its Impact 04:50 Personal Experiences with MLMs 07:54 Recognizing Red Flags in MLMs 10:30 Raising Awareness and Ethical Considerations 13:45 Documentaries and Further Exploration of MLMs Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

How clear are you on your values? An arresting question! I'm asking because my guest on the pod this week is Dr Dupé Burgess, founder of Bloomful, medical doctor, speaker, content creator and mum of 3. At the heart of everything she does? Her values. That's why she's been able to build such a compelling personal brand on LinkedIn, and why she's such a compelling speaker and founder. Because mission drives it all. If you're building a personal brand, fundraising or building a founder network from scratch, this episode is for you. Takeaways: Dupé's career transitions from NHS to consultancy to entrepreneurship - why it's so important to have a career that reflects your values Bloomful's context of 2020 and Covid as we all became more aware of healthcare inequality for women and minorities How crucial education is for women to be able to advocate for their health Building a founder network from scratch Dupé's experience of angel investor fundraising as a pregnant black woman Trust your instincts when dealing with potential investors Aligning your actions with your personal values Why it's so powerful to build a personal brand especially for women Where Dupé finds joy Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Dupé Burgess 02:21 Journey from Medicine to Entrepreneurship 12:21 The Birth of Bloomful 22:49 Bloomful's Mission and Services 26:01 Navigating Fundraising Challenges 30:10 Building a Personal Brand on LinkedIn 37:03 The Importance of Personal Values 40:32 Balancing Work and Family Life 48:38 Finding Joy in Work and Life Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Dupé Burgess Dupé is a medical doctor, keynote speaker, health tech founder, content creator, online writer and mum to three young kids. She spent eight years working as a medical doctor before transitioning into strategy consulting at BCG. Dupé founded Bloomful in 2021, a health tech business on a mission to close the gender health gap and improve access to gynae care for women globally. It provides digital support for women dealing with common gynae health issues and has won multiple awards and grants over the past few years. As a leader, Dupé's biggest realisation has been that attention is the new currency and her role is to drive brand awareness. Over the past three years, she's built her career by openly sharing the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, offering candid insights into what it really takes to start and grow a business. Dupé has two key missions, transforming women's health through Bloomful and leveraging her personal brand to not only amplify her impact, but also help other entrepreneurs to do the same. Dupé Burgess Links: Website: https://www.bloomful.io/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dupeburgess/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bloomful.io Newsletter: https://www.dupeburgess.com/newsletters/growth-tactics/subscribe Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

In this episode I'm talking about something that I think is a constant, if not battle, then area for improvement: mindset. Mindset has been a hurdle that almost prevented me from achieving a business goal. But I was able to recognise it and work on it. So I'm talking about: - How I recognised my mindset was the problem - The goal it was hindering - The steps I took to change it - The support and resources I turned to (a surprise to me too!) This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (www.ancientandbrave.earth/). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Resources Goldman Sachs 10000 Small Businesses programme: https://www.goldmansachs.com/community-impact/10000-small-businesses/ Glennon Doyle, Untamed: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/52129515-untamed Takeaways Why Caroline wanted to work on business growth and her application to the Goldman Sachs 10000 Small Businesses programme Recognising old thought patterns and where your mindset is holding you back Mindset is a key piece for founders and needs constant work! Self care is essential for sustainable business growth Where to find support in breaking out of old mindset patterns There's nothing better than a good old fashioned pep talk Balancing family with the growth programme requires a lot of planning and communication Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Goldman Sachs Growth Programme 02:51 Mindset Shifts and Overcoming Doubts 06:05 Navigating Growth as a Mother and Founder 08:51 Preparing for the Interview Process 12:04 Building Confidence and Embracing Challenges 14:49 Practicalities of Balancing Work and Family Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Do you have that 'on the cusp' feeling? I think it's something that unites founders. There's always something on the horizon that helps keep the faith in your business, even when on paper it's not always clear. My guest on the pod this week is Jen Fuller, founder of Etta Loves, science backed baby sensory products that are also absolutely beautiful. Jen is really open that it's the 'cusp' feeling that keeps her going rather than revenue or income goals. I loved this conversation, as a service business owner, it's always fascinating to hear from product founders. Jen shares so much empathy, inspiration and nuts and bolts practical advice. How to deal with copycat businesses, direct sales v working with retailers, opening in new territories, celebrity endorsements and what she gained from a business growth programme, Jen gives her perspective on it all. This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (www.ancientandbrave.earth/). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Takeaways: Balancing a corporate career with a family Jen's light bulb moment for her business How Jen used her mat leaves to launch her business Struggling with the lack of control that comes with motherhood Goal setting and 'the next thing' as a founder Appearance v reality and businesses in survival mode Committing to 'doing it properly' and Etta Loves' USP Copycat businesses and products Direct sales v working with retailers Celebrity endorsements and influencer marketing Business growth and development programmes Balancing business and family as a founder Where Jen finds joy Chapters: 00:00 The Birth of Etta Loves 05:00 Navigating Career Transitions: From Stockbroker to Entrepreneur 10:00 The Challenges of Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 15:12 Building a Business: The Balancing Act of Income and Passion 19:59 The Science Behind Etta Loves: A Commitment to Quality 24:56 Facing Competition: Coping with Imitation and Industry Challenges 26:01 Navigating Copycats and Retail Relationships 28:06 Shifting Sales Strategies: Direct vs Retail 30:02 Celebrity Endorsements: The Kardashian Effect 34:10 Investing in Business Growth 39:41 Future Plans and the Uncertainty of Business 41:27 Balancing Work and Family Life 45:27 Finding Personal Joy Amidst Chaos Resources: Goldman Sachs 10000 Small Businesses: https://www.goldmansachs.com/community-impact/10000-small-businesses/us UK Export Academy: https://www.great.gov.uk/export-academy/ Lauren Jumps: https://www.youtube.com/@LaurenJumps Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Jen Fuller Jen Fuller is the founder of Etta Loves, and mum to two little girls. Etta Loves was born from Jen's passion for providing babies with the best possible visual experiences to support their development while making everyday moments easier for parents and carers. With a strong commitment to excellence, she collaborates with leading experts in infant vision and her dedicated team to create the most optimised sensory essentials in the world, designed with both science and sustainability in mind. The idea for Etta Loves came to Jen when her first daughter Etta was just six weeks old. She noticed Etta staring intently at the black and white pattern jumper she was wearing while feeding, completely ignoring the plain muslin on her shoulder. To Jen's surprise, Etta fed for longer and the usual overwhelm of feeding seemed to lift. The light bulb moment sparked her fascination with infant vision and inspired her to harness the science behind what babies can see. Driven by this newfound passion, Jen set out to transform everyday baby essentials, starting with muslins, and expanding into powerful sensory tools that captivate tiny eyes and bring calm to daily routines. Today, Etta Loves offers beautifully designed, science-led products that provide babies with the wonder and focus they need while offering parents and carers moments of calm throughout their day. Jen Fuller Links: Website: https://www.ettaloves.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jen-fuller-ettaloves/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ettaloves Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

This week's episode is about the thing that has made all the difference in my business and for my wellbeing: consistency. Why it's so important Why it has been a game changer for me Where I have seen big results How I make sure I stay consistent (I'm talking processes and tools - you'll love this) Why it shouldn't be another thing to beat yourself up about This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (www.ancientandbrave.earth/). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of the True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order Resources ClickUp: https://clickup.com/ Takeaways What is consistency and what is manageable Processes help maintain consistency - diarise them Review regularly, what lessons are you learning, do things need to change? Flexibility is important; be kind to yourself when things don't go as planned Finding a balance between work and wellbeing is crucial Procrastination can sometimes be a sign of needing a break Celebrate small wins to maintain motivation Consistency doesn't mean perfection; it's about progress Chapters 01:00 Embracing Solo Podcasting 02:24 The Importance of Consistency 04:12 Managing Expectations and Productivity 08:09 Creating Effective Processes 11:13 Flexibility and Self-Compassion in Consistency 12:05 Finding Balance in Business and Wellbeing Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

If anyone is ever in doubt about mum's commitment to their careers post babies, please, use this conversation as proof that we are only ever more ambitious and focused. This week I'm talking to Jelena Skene, co-founder of 2 businesses raised alongside 2 small boys. It's been a busy few years for Jelena! My main takeaway from our conversation, and there are many, is: just start. You can't plan everything around having a family, if you have a business idea, just try it. I also loved her thoughts on what makes a good business idea, and what you actually need to create a successful business. If you're looking for advice on how to effectively PR pitch your business, listen to the end, Jelena has some incredible practical tips. This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (www.ancientandbrave.earth/). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Takeaways: Jelena's path from law, to fashion to marketing agency and how planning for a family informed her choice to move into entrepreneurship The highs and lows of Covid with a business and a baby Jelena's varied experiences of birth and mat leave in the UK and abroad Equality both in earnings and in childcare with Jelena's partner The contrast between an anxious pregnancy and the positive realities of motherhood The benefits of city connections for business opportunities You don't need an original idea to start a business, just a gap in the market The development of Press Flow alongside their first business and their fundraising plans for 2025 Community support and especially amongst female founders is invaluable for early-stage business How motherhood enhanced Jelena's focus and ambitions and societal misconceptions about mums Jelena's tips on effective PR pitches Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Jelena's Journey 03:01 Career Shifts and Discovering Passion 06:14 Navigating Parenthood and Career Decisions 09:13 The Impact of COVID on Business 12:01 Building a Business During Lockdown 14:54 Balancing Work and Family Life 18:00 The Experience of Motherhood 21:03 Life in Barcelona and Business Growth 24:09 Returning to the UK and Future Plans 28:19 The Importance of Cities for Connections 30:07 The Journey to Pressflow 34:11 Building Pressflow: A Strategic Approach 39:01 Community and Networking for Founders 42:04 Motherhood and Ambition 46:31 Finding Purpose as a Mother and Entrepreneur 49:05 Tips for Effective PR Pitching 52:08 Finding Personal Joy Amidst Business and Motherhood Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Jelena Skene Agency-turned tech founder of Press Flow and mother of two, Jelena has a background in digital marketing for major fashion and lifestyle brands. In March, 2024, Jelena co-founded Press Flow Limited with her husband, a free PR platform that connects experts, PR professionals, and journalists. Press Flow provides unlimited free pitching, making it an accessible tool for small businesses, personal brands, PR professionals, and experts seeking media exposure. Not their first business, prior to Press Flow, Jelena and her husband ran an agency and together through COVID juggled the demands of new parenthood and founder life for the first time. Jelena Skene Links: Website: https://www.pressflow.io/ LinkedIn (Jelena): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jelena-skene-2a3a9b60/ LinkedIn (Press Flow): https://www.linkedin.com/company/pressflow/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

I have been judging myself recently for some of the decisions I've been making. For 2025 my goal is business growth, and that means I'm making decisions that prioritise my work and my wellbeing at the cost of family time. There are a lot of expectations on us as mums and female founders: some from ourselves, from the people around us, the patriarchy. I am unpacking my feelings of mum guilt, and why I refuse to feel it anymore. This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (www.ancientandbrave.earth/). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of the True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order Takeaways Prioritising your business can throw up a lot of feelings of guilt for mum It's OK to seek support with childcare, housework or in your business Mums shouldn't feel guilty for prioritising their careers Networking and socialising can be draining, self-care is essential for maintaining energy and focus It's important to challenge societal expectations of motherhood Business retreats can provide valuable opportunities for growth Finding a balance between work and family is a personal journey Sharing experiences can help normalise the challenges of working mums Chapters 00:00 Balancing Business Growth and Motherhood 03:05 Navigating Guilt in Business and Parenting 05:57 The Importance of Support Systems for Working Mothers 08:48 Embracing Business Retreats and Personal Growth Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

In this inspiring episode, I'm joined by Lea Turner, LinkedIn expert, community builder, and founder of Holt, a thriving membership platform for small businesses. Content warning: there is a mention of suicidal ideation as Lea reflects on her teenage years and missed ADHD diagnosis. Lea's journey into entrepreneurship wasn't planned. Like so many of my guests on the pod, she didn't initially see herself as a business owner. Her entrepreneurial path began with a transcription side hustle, which played to her strengths and funded her travels. As her income grew to match her day job, she took the leap into full-time self-employment. We discuss how Lea managed her business while preparing for maternity leave, how her son has influenced her career decisions, and her remarkable pivot during the Covid-19 pandemic when her income streams dried up overnight. I think we can all relate to Lea's struggles with showing up authentically on social media, but she has really nailed it. By embracing her uniqueness, she transformed her LinkedIn presence, skyrocketing her followers and opening the door to incredible new opportunities. We explore the positives and negatives of social media: It wasn't easy for Lea to own her expertise, it took other industry leaders deferring to her as an expert in social media discussions before she could see herself in that light. She shares her experiences dealing with online trolls and how she's developed a positive, resilient mindset in response to negativity. This episode is packed with insights about business growth, balance, authenticity, and resilience. I hope you're as inspired by the conversation as I was! This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave. If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Takeaways: How Lea navigated the pandemic as a single mum and business owner Lea's late diagnosis ADHD and the challenges it presented particularly in her teenage years. Content warning: suicidal ideation Entrepreneurship was not initially on Lea's radar; it started as a side hustle to fund her travels and quickly matched her day job in earnings Partly due to her ADHD, Lea is comfortable with risk and knows that we always survive failure, so why not try? 4 years into her business, Lea fell pregnant, and knowing that mat leave wasn't an option worked overtime to save as much as possible As her son went to school, Lea reassessed her work structure knowing it was incompatible with spending quality time with her son outside of school hours Her pivot into LinkedIn training came as a result of Covid and all her client work drying up overnight Lea initially struggled with authenticity on LinkedIn, but decided to embrace her uniqueness and got an incredible response She faced a lot of self doubt over calling herself a LinkedIn expert, but eventually recognised her skills as other business owners referred and deferred to her as expert Lea has suffered from some scary and unpleasant trolling online based on her appearance, but stood up for herself and has learnt to deal with it Building her membership platform, Holt, was a response to the needs of her already existing community of business owners As a scalable and more personally fulfilling business Holt is her focus for now, practising what she preaches, Lea has hired her team exclusively from the membership Lea is looking forward to creating more of a work/life balance in the future Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lea Turner's Journey 06:15 Navigating Life During COVID-19 12:46 Overcoming Personal Challenges and Discovering ADHD 18:45 The Transition to Entrepreneurship 26:30 Building a Business and Embracing Change 28:10 Rediscovering LinkedIn: A Personal Journey 31:03 From Typing to Training: A Career Shift 33:01 Embracing Expertise: Overcoming Self-Doubt 36:49 Navigating Online Harassment: Standing Up for Yourself 39:49 Building a Supportive Community: The Holt 50:50 Work-Life Balance: Achieving Freedom as a Business Owner Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Lea Turner Lea Turner is an entrepreneur who transformed her life as a single mum through becoming a successful business owner. In 2019, she was working long hours typing medical reports while caring for her young son, barely making ends meet. Seeking a change, she began posting on LinkedIn, leveraging her humour and authenticity to connect with others. This approach quickly gained traction, leading to a substantial following, which currently stands at almost 200,000 followers and a fast growth LinkedIn training business. Over five years, Lea has built a six-figure income through her LinkedIn training, digital courses, and in-person workshops. In December 2024, she decided to close the doors on her LinkedIn training services to focus on new ventures. Lea is now running The H

If January has been…Januarying, then you are not alone. I've found it difficult to come back to work this year, comparisonitis and anxiety have been getting the better of me. So in this week's episode I'm sharing: My biggest business learning from 2024 My focus for 2025 Who we've got coming up on the podcast for Season 5 (make sure you're subscribed!) The wellbeing tools I keep returning to This episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave (https://ancientandbrave.earth). If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of the True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order Resources Untamed by Glennon Doyle: https://uk.bookshop.org/p/books/untamed-stop-pleasing-start-living-the-no-1-sunday-times-bestseller-glennon-doyle/3463827?ean=9781785043352 Takeaways January can feel overwhelming, but it's important to embrace the vibes, whatever they look/feel like for you Work-life balance is crucial for mums who are also business owners, I share the tools I keep coming back to It's okay to take your time with personal and business goals My biggest business learning from 2024 and my focus for 2025 Community support is vital for female founders navigating challenges Chapters 00:00 Embracing January Vibes 03:06 Navigating Work-Life Balance 06:10 Self-Care and Mental Health 08:57 Looking Ahead: Business Growth and Community Building Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

For our season finale I am joined by the wonderful Jo Woodhurst, Head of Nutrition at Ancient + Brave. And as a special gift to our listeners, Jo has kindly recorded a 10 minute to help us reconnect and recharge during the busiest and most festive time of year. We all need it! This bonus podcast episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave. If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Jo Woodhurst Jo is a BANT registered nutritionist following a career pivot after teaching. She takes a holistic approach to wellness, giving people the tools to better control their health instead of restrictive diet programs. Her practice is about balance, long lasting changes and realistic lifestyle choices. Jo's work with Ancient and Brave includes advising on future formulations and writing health articles, as well as taking on the role of educating their audience in holistic wellbeing, interviewing health experts and writing copy for magazines and press articles. Ancient + Brave is a mission-driven wellness brand with an award-winning range of collagen, MCT oil and nootropic blends. They are a community-built brand and from day one, they have embraced innovation and sustainability. Social environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything Ancient + Brave does. They are B Corp certified, donate to 1 % for the planet, certified carbon neutral and a founding member of the ESG Mark. Jo Woodhurst's Links: Website (Ancient + Brave): https://ancientandbrave.earth/ Website (Jo): https://www.jowoodhurst.com/ LinkedIn (Ancient + Brave): https://www.linkedin.com/company/ancientandbrave/ LinkedIn (Jo): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-woodhurst-nutrition/ Instagram (Ancient + Brave): https://www.instagram.com/ancientandbrave/ Instagram (Jo): https://www.instagram.com/jo_woodhurst_nutrition/

For our season finale I am joined by the wonderful Jo Woodhurst, Head of Nutrition at Ancient + Brave. And as a special gift to our listeners, Jo has kindly recorded a 10 minute meditation which is available as a separate bonus episode, out now. We all need it! Jo has been on her own journey in her approach to wellbeing. From burning the candle at both ends as a teacher, she moved into nutrition not only to reset how she nourished herself, but also inspired by her mum's long illness and her approach to wellbeing. Now as a mum, business owner and Head of Nutrition at Ancient + Brave, Jo knows that it's when we are busy that creating space for our own wellbeing slips. Jo shares her own wellness pillars, and why we need to approach them with flexibility and compassion. This podcast episode is sponsored by Ancient + Brave. If you'd like to try any of their products (I am a big fan of True Collagen!) you can use our discount code BTB20 for 20% off your first order. Takeaways: Finding moments of wellbeing in your day, even if it's just 2 mins Jo's experience of family illness growing up and the foundation of alternative approaches to wellbeing it created Jo's own healing journey of how she nourishes herself Sustainability is at the heart of everything A+B does; our personal wellness is linked to the wellbeing of the planet The transition into motherhood and the changes in our identity The contradiction of the loneliness we can feel as a new mum with the amazing mum community that we are suddenly a part of Jo's pillars of wellness, and why they are always the first thing to go when we're busy Wellness goals are great, but we need to be flexible and compassionate with them How Jo has reconnected with her personal sense of joy outside of motherhood Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Holistic Wellness 02:53 Jo's Career Journey and Personal Transformation 06:12 The Impact of Personal Experiences on Health Perspectives 08:56 Navigating Motherhood and Community Support 11:56 Sustainability in Business and Personal Values 14:57 Pillars of Health and Wellness for Busy Mothers 29:43 Grounding and Connection to Nature 30:31 The Importance of Rest and Self-Care 32:36 Consistency vs. Flexibility in Wellness 35:20 Setting Realistic Goals for Wellness 39:29 Rediscovering Joy in Motherhood 43:41 The Mother Archetype and Self-Identity Resources: B Corps https://bcorporation.uk/ ESG Mark https://www.esgmark.co.uk/ Love Mercy https://www.lovemercyfoundation.org/ More info on the Mother archetype: https://ancientandbrave.earth/blogs/news/embracing-the-cycles-of-life-honouring-every-season-of-womanhood Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Jo Woodhurst Jo is a BANT registered nutritionist following a career pivot after teaching. She takes a holistic approach to wellness, giving people the tools to better control their health instead of restrictive diet programs. Her practice is about balance, long lasting changes and realistic lifestyle choices. Jo's work with Ancient and Brave includes advising on future formulations and writing health articles, as well as taking on the role of educating their audience in holistic wellbeing, interviewing health experts and writing copy for magazines and press articles. Ancient + Brave is a mission-driven wellness brand with an award-winning range of collagen, MCT oil and nootropic blends. They are a community-built brand and from day one, they have embraced innovation and sustainability. Social environmental responsibility is at the heart of everything Ancient + Brave does. They are B Corp certified, donate to 1 % for the planet, certified carbon neutral and a founding member of the ESG Mark. Jo Woodhurst's Links: Website (Ancient + Brave): https://ancientandbrave.earth/ Website (Jo): https://www.jowoodhurst.com/ LinkedIn (Ancient + Brave): https://www.linkedin.com/company/ancientandbrave/ LinkedIn (Jo): https://www.linkedin.com/in/jo-woodhurst-nutrition/ Instagram (Ancient + Brave): https://www.instagram.com/ancientandbrave/ Instagram (Jo): https://www.instagram.com/jo_woodhurst_nutrition/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

Pip Black started her business, Frame at 24. She and her co-founder Joan, have navigated huge changes across the fitness industry over the last 15 years. They launched in recession, tag teamed maternity leaves over 4 kids, raised funds, bought back their company and adapted almost overnight to Covid. But through it all, they have lived the brand, its values, and created a business which puts customer experience at its core - the key to their success. Coming back to exercise has been a huge source of joy for me this year, and Pip is clear: doing what you love, rather than pushing yourself as hard as possible, is what builds a healthy body. Takeaways Customer experience v marketing The pros and cons of starting a business at 24yrs old How Frame embodies their values as a BCorp Managing maternity leave as 2 founders have babies back to back How Frame responded to Covid and your gyms being closed for nearly a year How Pip makes it work living in Somerset whilst being very present in a London based business Why we should listen to our bodies and not trends when it comes to how we exercise Chapters 00:00 The Evolution of Fitness Culture 07:38 Pip's Journey to Frame 16:15 Building Frame: Challenges and Innovations 23:55 Creating a Welcoming Fitness Environment 25:34 Accessibility in Fitness: Breaking Barriers 27:53 Core Values: Authenticity and Community 28:43 The Power of Partnership: Building a Business Together 32:51 Navigating Maternity Leave: Balancing Business and Family 35:46 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship: A Personal Journey 40:24 Lessons from COVID: Adapting to Change 46:56 Future Perspectives: Work-Life Balance and Parenting 49:56 The Joy of Dance and Fitness 51:10 Navigating Parenting During Lockdown 52:53 Balancing Work and Family Life 56:04 Finding Your Personal Exercise Style 01:01:06 The Importance of Community in Fitness 01:04:51 Listening to Your Body and Holistic Health 01:08:22 Innovations at Frame: Classes Tailored to Feelings Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Pip Black Pip Black is CEO and co-founder of Frame, a London-based fitness brand which pioneered the boutique pay-as-you-go studio movement in 2009. The pair raised £6m in PE investment in 2019, but since Covid have bought the business back and navigated their way out of these very difficult times. The brand now includes 5 locations across the city alongside a fast-growing Online offering. Pip studied Business at the University of Bath, including a year at the Australian Institute of Sport, before starting a career in Advertising before meeting business partner Joan Murphy in 2007. Together with Joan Murphy the two set out to build a brand which would encourage fit, healthy living through high energy and fun-filled classes. Frame has been operating for almost 16 years and proven that the pay-as-you-go fitness model is both profitable and can diversify into many areas including apparel, equipment and education. Pip and Joan launched Mumhood, their pre and post-natal sub-brand in 2016 and are hugely passionate about educating and motivating women to stay active throughout this stage of their lives for both their physical health and mental sanity! Pip Black's Links: Website: https://moveyourframe.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pip-black-82652940/ Instagram (Pip): https://www.instagram.com/pipingablack/ Instagram (Frame): https://www.instagram.com/moveyourframe/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

What do you think is behind the global falling birthrate? Because social media thinks it's mums' fault (of course). We're not sharing enough about how joyful motherhood is. Of course this is rubbish. But I do think it's so important for mums to connect with their own sense of joy, outside of motherhood, outside of work, just for themselves. Reconnecting with my personal sense of joy has been…a journey. It honestly feels like this year is the first since I became a mum that I have truly connected with the things that spark it in me. This week's episode is me unpacking why it's so important for us mums to find sources of personal joy. And why the internet is wrong to blame us for the falling birthrate. Resources Female Founders Rise - https://femalefoundersrise.com/ Othership app: https://www.othership.us/app Takeaways Mums NEED to rediscover joy Social media can create unrealistic expectations for motherhood Mothers should not be blamed for declining birth rates Finding personal joy can enhance the experience of motherhood Self-care and relaxation are vital for mental health Engaging in activities that bring joy is important Gratitude can help in finding joy amidst challenges It's okay to take time for oneself as a mother Creating a joy list can be a helpful exercise Sharing joy with others can enhance personal happiness Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Joy in Motherhood 03:07 The Blame Game: Mothers and Joy 05:55 Rediscovering Personal Joy 09:08 Encouraging Joyful Moments 11:55 Finding Joy Through Gratitude Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ Music by AudioCoffee: https://www.audiocoffee.net/

TRIGGER WARNING: Baby loss, depression and suicidal ideation Grace Carter didn't tell any of her clients when she had her first baby, a year into her business. And no wonder. Working in a male dominated industry, when Grace announced her second pregnancy, she lost £15k in recurring monthly revenue almost overnight. Motherhood and running a business took their toll on Grace's mental health. But instead of becoming smaller in her struggles, Grace took up space. She started talking about her experiences on LinkedIn - not the usual place for personal, mental health sharing. Grace saw how little support there is for women and mothers who are business owners - the law is set to protect male entrepreneurs, go figure. So she set up Business & Babies, who are campaigning for structural change to protect our interests and businesses. I'm an ambassador for B&B because I love what they are doing. We need more Grace's in this world and on LinkedIn. Resources mentioned Hyer Culture100 Award: https://www.hyer.co/feature-c100-awards Takeaways Motherhood and business are intrinsically linked in Grace's journey Working in a male dominated industry made Grace feel unable to tell clients that she'd had a baby, and lost revenue overnight when she announced her second pregnancy The toll of the balance of motherhood and business ownership on Grace's mental health Everything is a chapter in life You never know how close to success you are Running a business in a compassionate way, how it 'could' be rather than how it 'should' be Advocating for women and mothers in business The appearance of success v the feeling of it Grace's reality or workaholism and the cost to her overall wellbeing Social media and the balance between anxiety and narcissism Grace's link between business success and her ADHD Where Grace finds joy Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Grace Carter and Her Ventures 03:02 Navigating Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 05:55 The Challenges of Childcare and Support 08:47 The Birth of Business and Babies 12:07 Mental Health Struggles and Business Pressures 15:03 The Impact of Motherhood on Business 17:47 Finding Purpose Amidst Challenges 20:50 Stubbornness and Determination in Business 24:07 Creating a Supportive Work Culture 27:12 Advocating for Women in Business 30:14 The Dark Side of Growth on Social Media 35:14 Resilience in the Face of Economic Challenges 46:39 Finding Joy Amidst the Chaos of Work and Motherhood Links: Website: www.bumptobusinessowner.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bumptobusinessowner/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinepooley/ About Grace Carter Grace Carter is the visionary founder and managing director of The Metamorphose Group, a business collective that embodies Grace's dedication to creativity, craftsmanship, and empowering women. After owning her skills as a journalist, Grace founded Aphra in 2017, a brand and campaign agency named after Aphra Benn, the first British female playwright to make a living by her pen. With a dedicated team of talented professionals, Aphra has flourished under Grace's leadership, forging impactful partnerships with leading organisations. Grace's entrepreneurial drive extends far beyond Aphra. She established The Metamorphose Group to serve as the umbrella for multiple entrepreneurial brands that resonate with her core values of mental health, social equity, and entrepreneurship. These include ventures such as Consistently AI and AI-driven software solutions, and Business and Babies, which supports entrepreneurial mothers and the female body, advocating for women's health and wellness. Grace is also the founder of the Fast Female Fund dedicated to accelerating female motorsport through funding and mentorship. To highlight Business and Babies, which is how I first came across Grace and I'm proud to be an ambassador for, Grace wants to change the law. After discovering herself at the very start of her mothering journey and receiving four key business emails that needed her attention during her C-section, Grace wants to change the law, which has been written for male entrepreneurs. And while all the large corporations, banks and governments are talking about the need to create investment pots for women to create better gender equity and entrepreneurship. No one is talking about the infrastructure also needed for these women to thrive. Business and Babies held their first summit on 21st November 2024. And Grace is a mother to two little girls. Grace Carter's Links: Website(The Metamorphose Group): https://metamorphosegroup.co.uk/ Website (Aphra): https://www.weareaphra.co.uk/ Website (Business and Babies): https://www.businessandbabies.co.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-carter-metamorphose-group/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/businessandbabies.hq/