Women's Business

In this episode I interview journalist and author Dolly Jones (former editor of Vogue.com and strategy director at Condé Nast) about her early work influences before discussing how Dolly accidentally entered fashion journalism, built a long digital career at Vogue during the rise of the internet, and later questioned status-based definitions of success. She discusses success as financial security, motherhood while working full-time, childcare choices, “mum guilt” versus shame, and her book Leaving the Ladder Down, which argues for more honest, celebratory workplace conversations and flexibility for working parents. There's a lot to get into in this episode and we went there. I loved it. Find Dolly on Instagram here. Join the conversation with me on Instagram here. Find out more about me and apply to join The Wilder Collective here. The two women Dolly shouted out were: Sarah Bennett-Nash June Angelides------This episode is supported by Explore Worldwide, who specialize in small group expert led adventures. Instead of waiting a lifetime for a big, expansive trip, microdose retirement with Explore Adventures designed to give you enough space to reset how you're thinking, working and living.Women rarely give themselves permission to properly pause or have a break. So we often end up waiting for holidays that come when we're on the brink of burnout. If that sounds familiar, head to the Explore Worldwide website and take their micro retirement quiz. This will help you work out when a break might support where you're at in life and what kind of adventure you're craving.Take the Micro-Retirement Quiz here Each one is designed to be immersive and meaningful, not escapist, and they're solo friendly, which I love for women too. So if the idea of a proper reset resonates, take the quizTake the Micro-Retirement Quiz here

My guest this week us Joeli Brearley, founder of Pregnant Then Screwed and we get into it all here. After Joeli's early career we dive into how being dropped from a contract after disclosing her pregnancy -followed by a high-risk pregnancy -radicalised her and led her to launch an anonymous storytelling blog on International Women’s Day 2015. Joeli describes how the project grew into an advice line, tribunal mentoring, and sustained campaigning that helped change laws and influence policy, including extending the employment tribunal time limit, redundancy protections, flexible working, and contributions to childcare investment, while noting change is slow and often unglamorous. She discusses internalised misogyny, workplace culture failing caregivers, burnout from carrying others’ trauma (especially during COVID), and her difficult decision to leave the charity after 10 years at the helm. Jolie shares her new venture Growth Spurt supporting parents returning to work, her podcast To Be A Boy about raising sons amid online harms like pornography, and practical advice for overwhelmed would-be activists to start small and build community. Honestly, this is one of my favourite conversations to date. I really hope you enjoy it. Find Joeli on Insta here Find out more about Growth Spurt here The woman Joeli shouted out was Tinuke AweJoin the conversation with me on Instagram here------This episode is supported by Explore Worldwide, who specialize in small group expert led adventures. Instead of waiting a lifetime for a big, expansive trip, microdose retirement with Explore Adventures designed to give you enough space to reset how you're thinking, working and living.Women rarely give themselves permission to properly pause or have a break. So we often end up waiting for holidays that come when we're on the brink of burnout. If that sounds familiar, head to the Explore Worldwide website and take their micro retirement quiz. This will help you work out when a break might support where you're at in life and what kind of adventure you're craving.Take the Micro-Retirement Quiz here Each one is designed to be immersive and meaningful, not escapist, and they're solo friendly, which I love for women too. So if the idea of a proper reset resonates, take the quizTake the Micro-Retirement Quiz here

In this episode I speak to Samantha Harman AKA The Style Editor - a former journalist and newspaper editor turned personal stylist and author of the upcoming book Just Get Dressed. Samantha shares growing up on a council estate, being discouraged from journalism, working three jobs through university, and pushing past elitism and sexism to become an editor before 30 while facing intense online abuse and burnout. The conversation reframes styling as identity work shaped by generational trauma, body conditioning, and patriarchy, arguing that clothes function as personal branding and influence behavior (“enclothed cognition”). Samantha critiques traditional styling “rules,” diving deep into why people feel they have nothing to wear and how to change that. I loved this chat. Sam and I are so aligned and that comes through in spades! Find Samantha on LinkedIn here Find Sam's website and work with her hereI forgot to ask for a shout out in this episode - d'oh! The shout outs will be back! Join the conversation with me on Instagram here. Join The Wilder Collective here. --------This episode is supported by Explore Worldwide, who specialise in small group expert led adventures. Instead of waiting a lifetime for a big, expansive trip, microdose retirement with Explore Adventures designed to give you enough space to reset how you're thinking, working and living.Women rarely give themselves permission to properly pause or have a break. So we often end up waiting for holidays that come when we're on the brink of burnout. If that sounds familiar, head to the Explore Worldwide website and take their micro retirement quiz. This will help you work out when a break might support where you're at in life and what kind of adventure you're craving.Take the Micro-Retirement Quiz here Each one is designed to be immersive and meaningful, not escapist, and they're solo friendly, which I love for women too. So if the idea of a proper reset resonates, take the quizTake the Micro-Retirement Quiz here

This episode is a quiet rallying cry that change is possible, with co-founder of Hawkins Laxton & Co, Sian Hawkins. We trace Sian’s early drive to work, her psychology degree, and how volunteering on the National Domestic Violence Helpline led to paid frontline work supporting women fleeing abuse and shaped her feminist lens on patriarchy and systemic injustice. A trafficking case sparked her focus on modern slavery, research in Nepal, and a public affairs role at the Salvation Army. Sian describes shifting into policy and campaigning at Women’s Aid, helping secure coercive control legislation and later progress on family court child-contact presumption, emphasising that change is possible but slow. She explains Hawkins Laxton & Co’s work in strategic communications, public affairs, and personal branding, arguing visibility is leadership, grounded in evidence-based ethical influence, and encourages women to make “micro” changes, support other women, and make the invisible visible.Find Hawkins Laxton & Co here Find Sian on LinkedIn here Sian shouted out Clare Laxton. Find her here. Join the conversation with me on Instagram here. -----------This episode is supported by Explore Worldwide, who specialize in small group expert led adventures. Instead of waiting a lifetime for a big, expansive trip, microdose retirement with Explore Adventures designed to give you enough space to reset how you're thinking, working and living.Women rarely give themselves permission to properly pause or have a break. So we often end up waiting for holidays that come when we're on the brink of burnout. If that sounds familiar, head to the Explore Worldwide website and take their micro retirement quiz. This will help you work out when a break might support where you're at in life and what kind of adventure you're craving.Take the Micro-Retirement Quiz here Each one is designed to be immersive and meaningful, not escapist, and they're solo friendly, which I love for women too. So if the idea of a proper reset resonates, take the quizTake the Micro-Retirement Quiz here

I speak to PR and content strategist Antonia Taylor about her upbringing in Cyprus, the work ethic shaped by her grandfather and mother, and how she fell into PR through publishing publicity. Antonia shares how childcare logistics and commuting led her to freelance despite warnings of a “PR graveyard,” and discusses why workplace visibility is not neutral, highlighting the “paradox of visibility” where women are overlooked if quiet but punished if they speak up. We also have a juicy discussion on what we hate about International Women's Day,, explore the idea of safety and the personal costs of visibility for women, reframing it as leadership with ripple effects that can shift culture. Find Antonia on LinkedIn here Find her on Instagram hereJoin the conversation with me on Instagram here -----------This episode is supported by Explore Worldwide, who specialize in small group expert led adventures. Instead of waiting a lifetime for a big, expansive trip, microdose retirement with Explore Adventures designed to give you enough space to reset how you're thinking, working and living.Women rarely give themselves permission to properly pause or have a break. So we often end up waiting for holidays that come when we're on the brink of burnout. If that sounds familiar, head to the Explore Worldwide website and take their micro retirement quiz. This will help you work out when a break might support where you're at in life and what kind of adventure you're craving.Take the Micro-Retirement Quiz here Each one is designed to be immersive and meaningful, not escapist, and they're solo friendly, which I love for women too. So if the idea of a proper reset resonates, take the quizTake the Micro-Retirement Quiz here

In this episode I speak to Penny Wincer, a book coach and author, about creativity, care, and what work means when life is complex. Penny shares her path from a childhood around film sets to studying a multidisciplinary arts degree, assisting fashion photographers in London and New York, and ultimately becoming an interiors photographer. She explains how writing returned when she ringfenced Fridays for a City Lit course after divorce and as a single parent, and how her experiences as a young carer for her unwell mother connected with parenting her autistic son with a learning disability, leading to her first book, Tender, on care, unpaid labour, and identity. We discuss how her proposal secured multiple publishing offers despite a small profile, and how the pandemic and escalating care needs forced her to end her photography career and rebuild her working life from home. Penny talks about employing nannies, the limits of paid support, the emotional labour of constant regulation, work as respite, and how her lived experience reshaped her views on privilege, fairness, disability, and intersectionality. She describes training with Author Accelerator to become a non-fiction book proposal coach, building a business and audience through a newsletter and online visibility, and challenging myths about perfect writing conditions and the claim that everyone has a book in them. Penny also shares practical guidance for aspiring nonfiction authors - starting with the ‘why’, understanding the market, and defining a unique angle and voice. Find Penny on Instagram here Find Penny's website and more about her non-fiction book coaching here Join the conversation with me on Instagram hereThe women Penny recommended were Caro Giles and Suzy Reading (scroll back to episode 2 to hear her story!)

In this episode I speak with Sara Dalrymple - a speaker, mentor, and author with a wealth of experience in the language and logic of money, sales and self-promotion. We delve into Sara’s early career in banking, where she came to grips with the inequities women face despite hard work and dedication. Sara shares invaluable insights on pricing, explaining that it should be driven by logic rather than emotion. We also explore the nuances of sales, highlighting that it’s about creating mutual value and genuine connection rather than being pushy. Sara emphasises the importance of community and collective improvement for women entrepreneurs to achieve financial sustainability and self-advocacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone struggling with sales and pricing in their business. Find Sara on Instagram here Find her website (and book!) here The woman that Sara shouted out was Steph CaswellJoin the conversation with me on Instagram here--------This episode is sponsored by ⁠Hawkins Laxton & Co⁠ - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at ⁠hawkinslaxton.com⁠, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

In this episode I speak to Becca Stearn, co-founder of Mustard Made, the global locker brand. Becca shares her honest and unconventional journey from an unplanned pregnancy in her university days to launching a successful, unique locker business with her sister that has gone onto global success. We delve into her non-linear path, the inspiration behind Mustard Made, and the challenges of scaling a company rapidly. Becca also discusses the mindset shifts required when your business grows faster than expected, the role of sustainability in her company, and the importance of hiring the right people. Her story is a brilliant reminder that you don’t need a perfect plan to build something substantial; you just need to keep taking the next steps and adapt as you grow.Find Mustard Made online here Find them on Instagram hereJoin the conversation with me on Instagram hereThe person that Becca shouted out was Fiona Killackey------------This episode is sponsored by ⁠Hawkins Laxton & Co⁠ - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at ⁠hawkinslaxton.com⁠, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

In this episode, I speak to Fliss Newland, powerhouse young founder of Wild Thingz, a fun and innovative lower sugar sweet brand. We discuss her career transition from working with major retail brands like Mondelez to acquiring and rebranding a 40-year-old vegan sweet business - and the untapped opportunity that exists when taking on a business that already exists! Fliss shares her insights on the challenges of growth and letting go of control, the importance of brand over constant innovation, and the practical challenges of starting and scaling a business. We also delve into topics like the power of consistent messaging, the role of women in leadership, and the importance of creating an inclusive work culture, especially for working mothers. Fliss’s journey is a testament to finding opportunity in unexpected places and the power of positive mental attitude - she has a brilliant energy and I know you'll take loads from this episode. Find Wild Thingz online hereFind Wild Thinz on Instagram here The woman Fliss shouted out was Jennifer Spurr Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here --------This episode is sponsored by Hawkins Laxton & Co - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at hawkinslaxton.com, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

A must-listen! Prepare for a mind-stretching conversation that will challenge your perspective in the best way, as I talk all things money with Yinka Ewuola, an incredible entrepreneur and thought leader, about her inspiring journey from Goldman Sachs to supporting women in business. We delve into her experiences with workplace adversity, and the cultural influences that shaped her perspectives on money and success. Yinka shares her insights on the critical role of cash flow in sustaining and growing a business, what success actually means for businesses, the impact of good girl conditioning, and the transformative power of sending money on assignment. This episode is packed with valuable advice for female founders and business owners looking to redefine success and achieve financial freedom. It might just help you think completely differently about money - in the best way! Yinka's story is a testament to resilience, purpose, and the pursuit of equitable wins for all. Find Yinka on LinkedIn here The women Yinka shouted out were Sharon Hurley Hall and Kemi Atijosen and Ronke Kokoruwe Don't forget to join in the conversation with me on Instagram here And you can apply to join my community for female founders here -------------- This episode is sponsored by Hawkins Laxton & Co - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at hawkinslaxton.com, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

Welcome to the 100th episode of Women's Business, and in this special edition, I have the spotlight turned on me by my friend and former pod guest Imogen Partridge. We mark this milestone with a deep dive into my personal and professional journey. This episode is packed with insights about launching the podcast, stepping into my personal brand, and creating impactful events like Wilder LIVE. We delve into my evolving approach to confidence, mental health, and the importance of living by our values. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a creative, or pondering your next steps, this conversation offers reflections on embracing change, following your passions, and the power of community. Whether you've listened to one episode, all 100, or something in between - THANK YOU so much for keeping this podcast going, for joining in the conversations, and for supporting my work. Here's to the next 100! Thank you to the wondrous Imogen for interviewing me. You can find Imogen on Instagram here. You can join in the conversation with me here. ------------- This episode is sponsored by Hawkins Laxton & Co - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at hawkinslaxton.com, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

Unapologetic feminists unite in this episode, as I speak to Sophie Lee, a voice and visibility consultant for purpose-driven businesses. Sophie shares her journey from journalism to business journalism in China, and eventually to founding Electric Peach, a decentralised brand agency. We delve into the challenges of personal branding, female empowerment, and the importance of an intersectional feminist lens and how Sophie practises that in her life and business. Sophie also discusses her upcoming book, 'Beyond Palatable: A Manifesto for Unapologetic Women,' and her belief in social justice and dismantling patriarchal structures. This episode is a deep dive into navigating self-worth, accountability, and creating impactful change for all women. Hurrah! Find Sophie's website here. Sophie's main hangout online is LinkedIn. You can find her here. The women Sophie shouted out were: Yinka Ewuola (coming to an episode very soon!) Vicky Quinn Fraser - find her website here. Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. ------------- This episode is sponsored by Hawkins Laxton & Co - the personal branding and thought-leadership specialists supporting senior leaders, founders, and business owners to grow their professional profile in a tough and noisy market. If you know you need a stronger personal brand - one that actually reflects your strengths, your expertise, and the direction you're heading - Clare and Sian offer a brilliant process to help you get there. You'll get a full audit of your current personal brand, a 90-minute 1:1 session to uncover your signature strengths and values, and a bespoke personal brand narrative alongside a three-month thought-leadership plan. They'll also give you a digital and social optimisation strategy, plus a final implementation session so you walk away with a clear, confident personal brand - and a practical plan to grow your credibility, activate your community, and communicate with ease. Their clients describe the experience as game-changing, creative, confidence-boosting, and genuinely career-shifting. If you want support with personal branding, thought leadership, or media training, get in touch with Clare and Sian at hawkinslaxton.com, or email [email protected] or [email protected].

In this episode I speak to Katie Lopes, co-founder of Stripe and Stare, an innovative underwear brand making knickers women really want to wear. Katie shares her early career journey from television to retail, highlighting the importance of confidence and resilience. We delve into the ideation behind Stripe and Stare, focusing on creating underwear for women to feel comfortable and confident in, away from the male gaze. Katie talks about the challenges and successes of breaking into a crowded marketplace, the time it took to research and launch the product properly (a lesson in things taking time!), the significance of sustainability, and the power of female entrepreneurship. There is loads of insight from Katie here on building what is ultimately a feminist brand by women, for women, with loads of business learnings too. Find Stripe and Stare online here The woman Katie shouted out was Charlotte Tilbury. To join the conversation with me on Instagram and to find out more about The Confidence Project head here

In this episode I speak to Dr. Mandy Lehto, a coach, writer, speaker, and podcaster who helps driven leaders and overachievers slow down and redefine success. I loved this conversation and felt like I needed to make notes and listen back repeatedly! We delve into Mandy's fascinating journey from growing up on a farm with a strong work ethic to her career in investment banking, where the constant hustle led to eventual burnout. We cover topics including the myth of 'more,' the significance of rest, and the pursuit of true purpose. We are really challenging definitions of certain concepts and going deep on how to redefine them meaningfully, with exercises to help listeners do this work for themselves. Mandy offers insightful advice on how to balance ambition with self-care and redefine our relationships with success. This episode will resonate deeply with anyone struggling with perfectionism or the relentless pursuit of achievement. Find Mandy on Instagram here Find Mandy's website here The person Mandy shouted out was Kasia Urbaniak and you can find her on Insta here or online here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here and to find out more about The Wilder Collective and The Confidence Project please head here.

In this episode, I speak to Katie Chappell, a talented illustrator specialising in live event illustration and co-founder of The Good Ship Illustration. We discuss her early experiences with work and the first rejection thst left her reeling and questioning her path, and then her journey back to creativity, and her fascinating career path. Katie shares her innovative approach to handling rejection through a 'no thank yous' challenge, which not only desensitised her to rejection but also helped her create a pricing mindset that has transformed her business. We delve into those pricing strategies and how her mindset shifts have influenced her business decisions. Katie also talks about her community initiatives and the importance of being adaptable and willing to experiment in business. This is an insightful conversation on creativity, resilience, and the power of saying yes - AND no. Find Katie on Instagram here Find Katie's website here The woman Katie shouted out was Denise Duffield-Thomas. Find her work here Don't forget to join me on Instagram here ----------- This episode is supported by April & White, a brand built on a passion to fuel the imagination of children everywhere, not least with their beautiful bespoke letters from Father Christmas for your little ones. Sonia the founder approaches every product with an eye for beauty and detail to really keep the magic alive for your little believers, applying calligraphy by hand so that every letter and envelope is unique, personalised, and magical. Alongside her letters from Santa Sonia has a glorious selection of stocking fillers to make your kids' Christmas even more special, from beautifully boxed reindeer food to North Pole chocolate pennies and reindeer bells and even a magical memory journal to capture the sparkle and wonder of their Christmas. Order your letters from father Christmas by 5th December to be sure to receive them in time for the big day, and check out aprilandwhite.co.uk to shop now. Magic awaits. ----------- EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:21 Meet Katie Chappell 02:44 Katie's Early Work Experiences 05:16 Navigating Career Challenges and Discovering Illustration 11:48 Building a Freelance Career and Overcoming Setbacks 24:29 The Impact of Rejection and Embracing Challenges 29:31 Embracing Rejection: The Numbers Game 30:00 Applying the Rejection Challenge to Real Life 30:54 Pricing Strategies for Women in Business 32:33 The Importance of Incremental Upgrades 33:39 Building a Strong Online Presence 36:04 Balancing Creativity and Business 40:20 The Value of Community and Collaboration 42:45 Navigating Social Media as a Creative 45:52 Learning Business Skills as a Creative 54:19 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this special episode of Women's Business, I speak to Leila Ainge, my brilliant co-conspirator in our recent research project 'Good Girl Economics: The Price of Playing Nice.' This conversation is a review of our research: why do it, why now, the trends we discovered, and what we've both learned and will be implementing off the back of this research - particularly around pricing and perception. Join us as we uncover why women find it challenging to discuss profit, the impact of internalised misogyny, and how we can shift our mindset to embrace sustainable success. Leila's background in psychology enriches our conversation, making this a must-listen for women navigating their entrepreneurial journeys.

In this week's episode I speak to Rosamund Dean, a journalist, author, and writer of the Substack 'Well, Well, Well.' Rosamund shares her journey from her early career as an entertainment journalist to navigating the overwhelm of the wellness industry following her breast cancer diagnosis and recovery. We discuss how her definition of success has changed, the pressures of motherhood, and the future-proofing of her body post-cancer. Rosamund also talks about her transition to freelance work, the joys and challenges of the Substack platform, and the importance of maintaining a healthful balance in life. Find Rosamund on Instagram here Read Rosamund's Substack here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here ------------ This episode is supported by April & White, a brand built on a passion to fuel the imagination of children everywhere, not least with their beautiful bespoke letters from Father Christmas for your little ones. Sonia the founder approaches every product with an eye for beauty and detail to really keep the magic alive for your little believers, applying calligraphy by hand so that every letter and envelope is unique, personalised, and magical. Alongside her letters from Santa Sonia has a glorious selection of stocking fillers to make your kids' Christmas even more special, from beautifully boxed reindeer food to North Pole chocolate pennies and reindeer bells and even a magical memory journal to capture the sparkle and wonder of their Christmas. Order your letters from father Christmas by 5th December to be sure to receive them in time for the big day, and check out aprilandwhite.co.uk to shop now. Magic awaits.

In this episode I speak to the inimitable Laura Belbin, better known as Knee Deep in Life on Instagram. Laura is an author, podcaster, and standup comedian who has used comedy to find light in the darkest of times. This conversation covers it all - from her early career experiences, her journey through therapy, dealing with childhood trauma, and how she discovered her true calling in comedy and completely reimagined and restarted her life. Laura shares the impact of her viral moments online, the challenges of being an influencer, and how she balances humor with raw honesty. This is an insightful and heartfelt story, full of self-reflection and moments of humour, moments of clarity, and moments of total openness. A must listen. Find Laura on Instagram here Join me on Instagram here -------------- This episode is supported by April & White, a brand built on a passion to fuel the imagination of children everywhere, not least with their beautiful bespoke letters from Father Christmas for your little ones. Sonia the founder approaches every product with an eye for beauty and detail to really keep the magic alive for your little believers, applying calligraphy by hand so that every letter and envelope is unique, personalised, and magical. Alongside her letters from Santa Sonia has a glorious selection of stocking fillers to make your kids' Christmas even more special, from beautifully boxed reindeer food to North Pole chocolate pennies and reindeer bells and even a magical memory journal to capture the sparkle and wonder of their Christmas. Order your letters from father Christmas by 5th December to be sure to receive them in time for the big day, and check out aprilandwhite.co.uk to shop now. Magic awaits. --------- EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 01:24 Meet Laura Belbin: Knee Deep in Life 02:50 Laura's Early Life and Career Aspirations 04:34 Navigating Adulthood and Early Career 14:42 The Birth of Knee Deep in Life 18:35 Going Viral and Its Aftermath 19:30 Comedy as a Coping Mechanism 20:36 Therapy and Self-Discovery 38:39 Challenges of Content Creation 44:09 Authenticity and Online Presence 45:30 Handling Online Criticism 47:12 Personal Growth and Boundaries 49:58 Parenting and Personal Struggles 54:06 The Journey of Self-Discovery 58:58 Motherhood and Real-Life Challenges 01:03:21 The Importance of Compassion 01:06:48 Embracing Imperfection 01:23:26 Final Thoughts and Future Plans

In this episode I speak to Dani Pearce, founder of the globally successful footwear brand Merry People. We start with Dani's early memories of farm life in Australia, her journey through various jobs, and the idea she had that led to her launching her brand. Dani shares how she navigated her company's growth, including securing her first factory in China, selling at farmer's markets, and transitioning to e-commerce. We also delve deep into her personal life, discussing the impact of motherhood on her career, her husband becoming the primary caregiver for their kids, and the importance of maintaining kindness and authenticity as a leader. Tune in for a candid conversation about resilience, growth, and staying true to oneself in business. Find Merry People online here Find Merry People on Instagram here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here ----------- This episode is supported by April & White, a brand built on a passion to fuel the imagination of children everywhere, not least with their beautiful bespoke letters from Father Christmas for your little ones. Sonia the founder approaches every product with an eye for beauty and detail to really keep the magic alive for your little believers, applying calligraphy by hand so that every letter and envelope is unique, personalised, and magical. Alongside her letters from Santa Sonia has a glorious selection of stocking fillers to make your kids' Christmas even more special, from beautifully boxed reindeer food to North Pole chocolate pennies and reindeer bells and even a magical memory journal to capture the sparkle and wonder of their Christmas. Order your letters from father Christmas by 5th December to be sure to receive them in time for the big day, and check out aprilandwhite.co.uk to shop now. Magic awaits. --------- Episode Highlights 01:20 Meet Dani Pearce: Founder of Merry People 02:25 Danny's Early Life and Career Beginnings 09:47 The Birth of Merry People 28:32 Challenges and Early Struggles 32:27 Balancing Side Jobs and Business Growth 35:37 Yearly Growth and Digital Shift 37:30 Going Global: US and UK Expansion 43:43 Balancing Motherhood and Business 54:45 Future Plans and Retail Expansion 58:17 Leadership and Personal Growth 01:02:22 Final Thoughts and Advice

In this episode I speak to Nicola Fitzpatrick, the founder of Elansu, a sports bra brand for fuller-busted women. Nicola's journey is truly fascinating, as she transitioned from a career in the male-dominated roofing industry to designing supportive sports bras to meet her own needs - bras that celebrated AND supported her feminine shape rather than just squashing it. We delve into her early work experiences, her foray into construction, and the challenges she faced as a woman in a male-dominated field. Nicola shares her motivations behind starting Elansu and the meticulous process of creating a sports bra that truly supports fuller-busted women. We also discuss the systemic gender biases in various industries and the importance of representation and resilience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in breaking barriers and creating products that matter. Find Elansu on Instagram here Shop Elansu here Join me on Instagram here ------- This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. ----------- 01:20 Meet Nicola Fitzpatrick: From Roofing to Sports Bras 02:33 Nicola's Early Work Experiences 05:24 Navigating Career Paths and Family Expectations 07:36 Challenges and Triumphs in the Construction Industry 12:22 Gender Bias and Representation in Construction 30:10 The Decision to Start Elansu 34:59 Designing for Women's Needs in Sportswear 35:30 Challenges in Women's Health Research 37:07 The Journey of Creating a Sports Bra 39:55 Prototyping and Testing 45:02 Balancing Quality and Pricing 50:02 Empowering Women Through Design 57:08 Personal Reflections and Advice 01:03:48 Resilience and Final Thoughts

Join me as I speak to Chloe Fallon, founder of Lodestar Accounting. Chloe shares her journey from growing up in a single-parent household to founding her own accountancy firm, alongside starting her own family very young and having the build both alongside each other. We discuss her early career, the pressures of balancing work and family life, her fearless approach to leadership, and the pivotal moment that helped her to focus on purpose and impact over conventional measures of success, as she went about building her all-female team of accountants. Learn about Chloe's mission to support values-driven businesses and her commitment to providing a work environment that integrates work and life. It's a story is one of resilience, balance, and purposeful leadership. Find Chloe on LinkedIn here Find Lodestar on Instagram here Find Lodestar's website here Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here ----------- This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. ------------ EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 02:48 Chloe Fallon's Early Work Memories 06:10 University and Career Beginnings 13:02 Balancing Career and Motherhood 17:21 Founding LodEstar Accounting 24:42 Building a Female-Led Remote Team 29:20 Leadership and Personal Reflections 31:27 The Importance of Leadership and Legacy 33:38 Finding the Right Clients and Values Alignment 35:11 The 80% Rule and Outsourcing for Growth 37:50 Challenges of Being a Female Founder 41:34 Evolving Leadership Styles 53:12 Balancing Business and Personal Life 55:53 Reflecting on Success and Personal Growth 01:04:28 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

In this episode, I speak to financial coach, writer and podcaster Clare Seal. Clare shares her journey from racking up £27,000 in personal debt to becoming a financial educator and influencer. We discuss the decision to share her debt journey online, the steps she took to get out of debt, and the impact of motherhood on her financial decisions. Clare also dives into the importance of financial education for children and how parents can break the cycle of financial shame. We touch on the systemic struggles women face in balancing career and family life and discuss Clare's podcast 'Help Me, I'm Poor,' which explores money in popular culture. This episode is packed with valuable insights into managing money, overcoming financial challenges, breaking down financial taboos, and financial education for our kids (and ourselves!) too. Find Clare on Instagram here Find Help Me I'm Poor the podcast here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here ---------- This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products. ------- EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 01:20 Meet Clare Seal: Financial Coach and Writer 03:04 Clare's Early Life and Career Beginnings 11:38 Navigating Debt and Financial Struggles 16:23 The Turning Point: Facing Financial Reality 19:17 Starting an Instagram Account for Accountability 30:59 Financial Coaching and Career Evolution 34:38 Questioning the Morality of Influencer Culture 34:58 Motherhood and Financial Education 35:46 The Motherhood Penalty 37:48 Balancing Work and Family Life 43:42 Financial Education for Kids 49:07 Recalibrating Financial Practices 52:10 Help Me, I'm Poor Podcast 01:01:30 Advice for Younger Self 01:06:14 Final Thoughts and Where to Find Clare

In this episode I speak to Tessa Sowry-Osborne, founder of The Stationer - a beautiful online stationery collection curated by Tessa's expert eye and born out of a true passion for stationery. We delve into Tessa's fascinating journey from her early career aspirations in theatre, through to grappling with various temp jobs and eventually finding her calling in the world of high-quality, beautifully designed stationery. We discuss her initial determination to curate a selection of products from scratch, and how the sudden, tragic loss of her mother spurred her to take the leap in setting up her business. Tessa shares insights on juggling entrepreneurship with motherhood, how moments of unexpected virality boosted her business, and the balancing act between ambition and personal well-being. She also talks about a heartwarming project she did with her son, turning his drawings into stickers, which became a big hit. We touch on the therapeutic value of stationery, the power of physical, tactile items in a digital world, and how she's learning to be content with sustainable, steady growth. This episode is a testament to authenticity, resilience, going at your own pace, and the joy found in following your passion. Find Tessa's website here Find Tessa on Instagram here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here -------- This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

In this episode I speak to JodI Clark, the founder of Sober Flourish, a wellness-led platform empowering women to remove alcohol and reclaim their energy. JodI shares her remarkable journey from heavy drinking in her teens through to her newfound sobriety, reflecting on the pivotal moments that led her to quit alcohol and start her business. We discuss her early influences, career path, and the challenges she faced during the pandemic. Jodi also delves into her strategies for growing a large social media following and the importance of authenticity in business. Finally, we explore the transformational impact of sobriety on her personal and professional life, and Jodi offers advice for those looking to make significant changes in their own lives. Listen for great insight on taking the road lesa travelled and ending up flourishing exactly where you're meant to be! Find Sober Flourish on Instagram here Find Jodi's coaching business here Find Jodi's website here Join me on Instagram here -------- This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

In this episode I speak to the incredible Victoria Whittington, a female financial planner who stands out in a traditionally male-dominated industry. We dive into her journey from investment banking to setting up her own business, along with the unique challenges and insights she has gained along the way. Victoria shares her personal experiences, from childhood influences and career decisions to the impactful realisation she had during maternity leave. We explore how financial planning can be people-centric, the common misconceptions women have about money, and the importance of removing shame from financial discussions. Plus, Victoria explains her innovative approach to financial advising and the empowering message she promotes for all, especially women. If you're interested in demystifying financial planning and taking control of your financial future, this episode is a must-listen. Book your 30 minute no obligation call with Victoria here Find Victoria on Instagram here Find Victoria's website here Join the conversation with me on Instagram here ------ This episode is brought to you by Victoria Whittington Financial Planning. Victoria knows how easy it is to put off sorting your finances. Life is busy. Work, family, and everything else always seem to take priority. That's why her advice is clear, jargon-free, and designed to fit around your life, not the other way round. Her role is to help you turn what you want for the future into a clear plan, break it into manageable steps, and give you the support to keep going until you get there. If you'd like to have a friendly, no-pressure chat about what financial planning could do for you book a no-obligation 30-minute session here. Victoria Whittington Financial Planning is an Appointed Representative of and represents only St. James's Place Wealth Management plc which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority for the purpose of advising solely on the group's wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the group's website www.sjp.co.uk/products.

It's the first episode of the new season and I'm delighted to share this brilliant episode with Amelia Peckham, founder of Cool Crutches. Amelia shares her truly unbelievable story of how a life-altering accident in her early twenties changed the course of her life, after she was faced with the challenges of using conventional crutches during her rehabilitation, and set out to create a better solution, ultimately founding Cool Crutches. We discuss her journey from the devastating accident to the creation of her innovative product, her experience in the conventional workplace as a disabled person, and the rewarding moments of helping others through her business. This episode is filled with resilience, determination, and the transformative power of turning adversity into a positive force. Don't miss this conversation that will offer much-needed perspective and inspiration. Find the Cool Crutches website here Find Cool Crutches on Instagram here Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here Episode Highlights 00:31 Meet Amelia Peckham: Founder of Cool Crutches 01:48 Amelia's Early Life and Family Influence 03:27 Career Advice and Early Work Experiences 06:27 The Life-Changing Accident 10:56 Rehabilitation and the Birth of Cool Crutches 17:35 Challenges and Innovations in Crutch Design 29:27 Launching Cool Crutches as a Business 35:35 Navigating the Challenges of Traditional PR 36:10 Transitioning to Broadcast PR: A Tough Journey 36:52 Health Struggles and Career Changes 38:12 Finding a New Path: From PR to Fitness 39:36 Building Cool Crutches: A Startup Journey 41:58 Celebrity Endorsements and Business Growth 48:59 Advocacy and Impact: Changing Lives with Cool Crutches 59:38 Balancing Business and Advocacy 01:08:59 Reflections and Future Aspirations

In this final episode of the Summer Survival Series I speak to Leah, a psychologist turned women's health advocate, about sustaining hormonal health and advocating for yourself. Leah shares her journey into the world of women's health, driven by personal experiences and the lack of adequate education for her daughter. We discuss the importance of symptom tracking, the benefits of HRT, and how women should prioritise themselves. Leah emphasises the need for a supportive community and the shift in conversations about midlife hormone changes. Tune in to learn how to better understand and advocate for your hormonal health. Find The House of Hormones here Find the free downloadable resources including a symptom tracker here

The question this week is from me! I wanted Drew to speak honestly about his perspective on becoming a parent, and everything that entailed in terms of work, home, and finding his way as a dad. We talk about the transition to parenthood, the struggles of finding our roles, and the importance of male allyship. Drew opens up about the feelings of being undervalued at home, adjusting expectations, and the societal conditioning that affects our views on household responsibilities. We also discuss the mental load of unpaid labour, the benefits of shared responsibilities, and the significance of having open, honest conversations. This episode is a deep dive into the dynamics of modern parenting and the journey towards creating a more balanced and happy relationship.

In this episode on the theme of 'sustain' I speak to Claire Hill, a self-belief and business coach, about sustaining our mindset during summer. Claire shares her go-to mantras, the importance of self-belief, and practical strategies to balance business and family life. We discuss tackling self-doubt, the importance of setting boundaries, and defining our own version of success. Claire also dives into how to handle procrastination and the significance of rest versus resisting growth. For more insights and to join us at the Wilder:LIVE this October. Find Claire's website here Find Claire on Instagram here Find out more about Wilder:LIVE here

In this episode our listener question is all about how to get your husband to notice dust when he seems immune to dust. In other words... how to get him to get involved in the unpaid labour at home. We talk bout how we tackle the invisible labour and ingrained gender roles in our household, as well as sharing practical steps for dividing tasks, overcoming traditional expectations, and breaking down the mental load. This episode covers writing down tasks, having open conversations, and the importance of mutual respect. We also reflect on personal experiences, the impact of modeling behavior for our kids, and the role that positive feedback plays in making lasting changes. Whether you're managing household chores or parenting duties, this episode offers helpful insights for creating a more balanced and collaborative home life.

In this episode of Women's Business, I speak to Emma Zangs, a movement teacher and choreography and public speaking coach. Emma shares insights on the importance of movement for staying grounded and coping with the chaos of summer, especially for those juggling parenting and work. She discusses the role of dance in connecting with our bodies and emphasises the value of playful movement practices. We also delve into the benefits of public speaking through body awareness and the empowering concept of clowning to embrace silliness and reduce anxiety. Emma offers practical tips and simple movement exercises to help reconnect with ourselves and sustain energy throughout the summer. Find Emma on Instagram here Find Emma's website here Join me on Instagram here

In this first episode of The Better Halves Project Drew and I are diving into a listener question: how to even start these conversations at home with a partner who rolls their eyes at the mere mention of allyship. We share our personal journey and practical advice, emphasising open dialogue, setting boundaries for conversations, and the importance of mutual respect. This candid conversation aims to inspire meaningful discussions in your home about gender equality and respect. If you enjoyed this conversation please join the conversation on Instagram here. 00:00 Introduction to the Better Half Project 00:58 First Episode: Understanding Allyship 01:28 Breaking Down the Concept of Allyship 02:19 Navigating Conversations on Allyship 03:39 Challenges and Misunderstandings 05:55 Personal Experiences and Reflections 07:59 The Importance of Emotional Labor 10:23 Balancing Work and Parenting 23:00 The Value of Gratitude and Recognition 24:23 Final Thoughts and Encouragement

In this first of my Summer Survival Series I speak to Katie Skelton, former guest of the full pod, and an email marketing expert, about the importance of sustaining visibility and sales even during the summer slowdown. We discuss the concept of selling as a commitment to yourself, how to build and maintain a consistent writing habit, and the significant impact of genuine human connections on business success. Katie also shares her non-negotiables that help keep her business thriving and her strategies for balancing work with quality family time during the holidays. We wrap up with practical tips on how to stay engaged with your audience while taking a well-deserved break. If you enjoyed Katie's insights and want to meet more incredible women sharing their expertise, don't forget to book your tickets to my Wilder:LIVE event this October! Tickets available here Find Katie's website here Find out more about me and The Wilder Collective here