Women's Business

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 sl...

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 int...

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 fami...

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 visib...

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...

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 coll...

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...

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...

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 p...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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.

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...

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 h...

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...

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...

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. 

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...

It's a family affair this week, as in the last full episode before the summer break I'm interviewing my sister, Katie Elliott (AKA HR Katie) about her career journey, juggling work-life balance, and navigating the challenges of ambition and family life. We discuss her experience in HR, starting her own business, and the impact of her recent breakup on her professional and personal life. Katie shares her insights on the importance of knowing oneself, the role of unpaid labour, and how she found her balance between career and motherhood. Tune in for an honest and heartfelt conversation filled with...

*Trigger warning: sexual assault 

In this episode, I speak to Lu Featherstone, the vibrant and inspiring personality better known as 'Lu in LuLand' on Instagram. We dive into Lu's colorful and bold life journey from growing up as a vicar's daughter, serving in the Armed Forces, to moving to America and undergoing a transformative self-love revolution following her divorce. Lu candidly shares her struggles and triumphs, including dealing with postnatal depression, financial troubles, a self-diagnosed ADHD, and the powerful shift towards embracing authenticity and building community. We also explore her role as a confidence coach, and her a...

This week's episode feels special. It feels like one everyone should hear, and in it I speak to Grace Mosuro, an organisational development consultant, inclusion coach, and strategist. Grace shares her compelling journey rooted in her experiences as a black, Nigerian-born, UK-raised woman, touching on her early career, overcoming workplace marginalisation, and her shift towards focusing on diversity and inclusion. We delve into fundamental lessons for founders, the significance of intersectionality, the importance of finding joy in daily life, and how resilience shaped her leadership post-breast cancer. Join us as we explore how to build inclusive workplaces and the...

In this episode I speak to Jenn Jordan, professional organiser and founder of Orjenise about her unique path to finding her life's calling. Jen wasn't always an organised person; in fact, she was messy and struggled with a shopping addiction. We delve into her early career, time on tour with her rockstar husband, and the moment she realized she needed to declutter her life. Jenn shares the emotional complexities of letting go of sentimental items and offers practical tips for anyone looking to start their own decluttering journey. We also explore Jenn's views on work-life balance, success, and her...

In this episode of Women's Business, I speak to Imogen Partridge, a talented watercolor illustrator (and friend), about her journey from a career in interior design to launching her own successful art business. We delve into Imogen's early influences, her battles against the 'struggling artist' narrative, and the power of creativity in personal and professional growth. Imogen shares insights on how she cultivated her audience, managed the transition from traditional employment to self-employment, and the various revenue streams that support her creative enterprise.

We also touch on the importance of maintaining a healthy mindset, balancing family life...

In this episode I speak to Jo Proud, the founder of Mood Bears - emotional support bears designed to help children (and adults!) understand and express their emotions. Jo shares her incredibly inspiring story, which began with a late-night idea that was born out of her own mental health struggles. From creating her first prototype to importing a shipping container full of bears from China, Jo discusses the challenging and gratifying journey of building her business. We also delve into her personal life, touching on her upbringing and the choices she made to go against her mother's wishes to be...

My guest today is the utterly inimitable Jane Green, international bestselling author of books like Mr. Maybe and Jemima J, which put her at the forefront of the Chick Lit genre back in the late nineties. We delve into how her writing has evolved with her life, including her experience of divorcing after 18 years of marriage and starting anew in Morocco. Jane shares insights on internalised misogyny, the challenges and joys of creative reinvention, and how she balances work and personal life. We discuss her journey from journalism to fiction and now memoir writing while she recounts the pivotal...