Beyond The Bio

Why do some people land national press coverage again and again while others struggle to get noticed?

In this episode of Beyond the Bio, Sophie is joined by journalist turned PR expert Carol Driver to explore what it truly takes to stand out in today’s crowded media landscape.

With nearly 30 years of experience as a journalist and editor, Carol knows exactly what makes a story impossible to ignore. Now running her own successful PR business, she helps clients secure consistent coverage in major publications including Forbes, The Times, The Telegraph, Daily Mail and appearances on...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I'm joined by Phil Witcherley, Director of Economy and Innovation at the North East Combined Authority, where he leads on economic growth, innovation, housing, culture and sport.

In this episode we explore how Phil has used LinkedIn, and specifically his now well-known Friday posts, to champion the North East, build meaningful business connections and raise the profile of the region to audiences far beyond it.

We get into the discipline behind consistent posting, how he navigates the line between regional advocacy and political neutrality, and why LinkedIn has become...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Ben Franklin, business coach, psychic strategist and founder of Bold Intuition Co.

Ben works with leaders who want to scale their business and their identity at the same time, blending strategy with intuition to help them make better decisions and build from a place of alignment.

In this episode, we focus on how Ben has used live events like Audacious Live to amplify his brand, build authority and create deeper connections with his audience.

We get into why events are such a powerful vi...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I'm joined by Katy Eatenton, mortgage and protection specialist and personal branding pioneer in one of the most traditionally conservative corners of financial services.

Katy has spent over 20 years in the industry and has built a reputation not just for her expertise, but for her ability to make protection and insurance genuinely compelling. Where others see a dull subject, Katy sees an opportunity to educate, connect and transform how people think about financial security.

Before becoming known for her bold approach to visibility, Katy navigated an industry that rarely...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Steve Turner, PR strategist, speaker and author of PR That Works.

Steve is the co-owner of Solomon Turner PR, an award-winning public relations agency based in St Louis that has been helping brands build visibility and credibility for more than three decades.

Before founding his agency, Steve started his career in broadcasting, working as a sports announcer before moving into advertising, marketing and eventually launching his own PR firm. 

In this episode we explore what separates PR that simply generates headlines from PR that deliver...

Sammie Ellard-King once had £24,000 in credit card debt. Today his content has been viewed more than a billion times.

In his twenties, Sammie had no financial education to fall back on, so he taught himself everything he could about money and paid off the entire amount in just 18 months.

That experience led him to launch Up the Gains, a platform dedicated to helping Britain get financially fit with practical, no-nonsense advice people can use.

Today Sammie reaches more than 430,000 followers, hosts the Money Gains Podcast and is b...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Niall Ratcliffe, CEO of Noticed, one of the fastest growing B2B marketing agencies in the UK.

Niall started the business with his brother in 2022 from a spare room with just £18. A couple of years later, they’re working with major organisations including the NHS, Jane App and SaleCycle, as well as brands like Ocean Beach and Dr Will’s.

In this episode, we get into what’s working on LinkedIn right now and why it’s become one of the biggest opportunities in B2B.

We...

From performing under the big top to building a business through franchising.

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Jess Wesson, a franchise consultant with a very unconventional start.

We talk about her journey from circus performer to franchising, what it takes to pivot industries and how to turn transferable skills into real opportunities.

Jess also shares why strong foundations matter before you scale and what to consider if franchising is part of your growth plan.

In this episode, we cover:

138: One Core Skill for Lead Gen with Daisy Ferns

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Daisy Ferns, business owner and expert in conversation-led lead generation.

We chat about the one core skill that drives consistent leads and sales, how Daisy has built multiple six figure businesses without relying on ads or a huge audience and why real conversations outperform polished marketing every time.

Daisy also shares how to make sales feel human rather than transactional, why follow up should be about serving not selling and how to create a pr...

Sophie Jane Lee helps founders find and use their voice.

A journalist, brand storytelling expert and founder of Electric Peach, Sophie works with leaders and entrepreneurs to help them tell better stories and connect more powerfully with their audiences.

She is also the author of Beyond Palatable: A Manifesto for Unapologetic Women, a call for women to show up honestly, speak openly and take up space.

In this episode we discuss:

• The storytelling mistakes founders often make • How to use your voice as one of your most powerful business assets • Sharing storie...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by North East based aviation entrepreneur James Moon.

We chat about his journey building multiple businesses across business aviation and commercial aircraft trading and how he has established a strong profile in a highly specialised global industry.

James shares how he secured coverage on Sky News, the Daily Mail and other national and international publications despite having no formal background in marketing.

Plus - listen to hear about the legendary Hollywood name James has worked with…

Connect with James:

Website: http...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Naomi Rose, content marketing strategist and bakery founder.

We chat about her journey from 9 to 5 employment to building a thriving bakery, how she created a loyal community around her brand and why authenticity sits at the heart of everything she shares online.

Naomi opens up about navigating the pandemic, the impact of world events on her business and the realities of using social media to connect with customers in a way that resonates.

Let’s get stuck in.

Connect with...

This week, I’m joined by digital marketer and entrepreneur Gavin Bell.

We chat about why showing up on video matters more than ever, how Gavin went from feeling nervous on camera to setting himself the challenge of creating 100 videos and how video has since become one of his biggest strengths.

Gavin also shares how video played a key role in building Yatter, why he chose to step back from being so visible as he prepared to sell the business and the practical systems he uses to stay consistent, including journalling and a simple Tuesday pl...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by Sophie Foote, entrepreneur, property investor and mentor with one of the boldest origin stories you’ll hear.

We chat about how she bought a beach in Indonesia and built a thriving scuba diving resort from scratch, before selling the business and pivoting back to the UK to focus on property investment and helping families build financial freedom.

Sophie also shares honest reflections on personal branding, facing criticism in a noisy industry, establishing authority through media and visibility and why another pivot may already be on the...

This week I’m joined by Urmi Hossain, self-published author and finance professional.

We chat about building a personal brand alongside a full-time job, why personal branding really matters in the corporate world and the practical steps Urmi took to establish hers without burning out.

Urmi also shares the impact of her book, common personal branding mistakes she sees time and time again, and why consistency - and embracing who you are - makes all the difference.

Let’s get stuck in.

Connect with Urmi:

LinkedIn: https://www...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by business growth & visibility strategist, public speaker and mentor for women in business, Sandra Garlick MBE.

We chat about her journey from staying hidden to becoming a high-profile speaker, why storytelling is the secret weapon in public speaking and how to build real connections after you’ve stepped off stage.

Sandra also shares practical strategies for creating a consistent speaking pipeline, what her MBE has meant for her career and why being purposeful with visibility can completely change your business.

Let’s get stuck in. <...

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by newspaper editor, speaker, business owner and graphic designer Kierian Cameron.

We chat about her unconventional journey into entrepreneurship, what she learned living and working in New York and Hong Kong and why she’s so passionate about bringing print media back in a digital-first world.

Kierian also shares sharp insights on intentional branding, the power of sensory experiences and practical ways entrepreneurs can build visibility and meaningful connections without shouting the loudest online.

Let’s get stuck in.

…

This week on Beyond the Bio, I’m joined by DJ and entrepreneur Oliver Bond, founder of Our House.

We chat about where music meets marketing, why personal branding is essential for artists today and how to create engaging content on TikTok and Instagram.

Oliver also shares his thoughts on using AI to support content creation, growing an audience authentically and the importance of getting out there and networking through events.

Let’s get stuck in.

…

Connect with Oliver:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/ollie-bond-1099b82b4/

I...

A solo episode to welcome in the New Year with purpose this week.

We’re slowing things down and cutting through the overwhelm that so often shows up at the start of a new year.

You don’t have to stress about restructuring your entire career or business – instead, doing just ONE thing better can make a much bigger difference.

Let’s get stuck in to find out how… 

…

Connect with Sophie:            

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-milliken     

Instagram: www.instagram.com/moja_sophie/

...             

This week, I’m joined by writer, producer, script editor and film-maker Carley Armstrong.

We chat about how your personal brand can be your key to making it impossible for others in your industry to say ‘no’ when you’re chasing your dreams.

Carley also shares practical advice for visibility and networking when you know exactly where you want your career to go.

Let’s get stuck in…

...     

Connect with Carley:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carleyarmstrong/

Instagram: www.instagram.com/scripty.life/

Website: www.scriptsup...

This is the second of a two-part special episode with multi-award winning entrepreneur and founder of Pareto Facilities Management, Andrew Hulbert.

Andrew grew a business from his bedroom into one of the UK’s fastest-growing companies in the UK. He went on to create $100m in exit value for the business, generating significant value for all.

In part two, Andrew opens up about his decision to sell the business and reflects on the importance of reclaiming a healthy work–life balance.

He also shares why considering diversity of background and experience is essential when...

It’s a festive treat for you this week and next, as I’m joined for a two-part special episode by multi-award winning entrepreneur and founder of Pareto Facilities Management, Andrew Hulbert.

Andrew grew a business from his bedroom into one of the UK’s fastest-growing companies in the UK. He went on to create $100m in exit value for the business, generating significant value for all.

Andrew shares the experiences that first drew him to entrepreneurship and explains why his business ethos has remained consistent throughout his journey.

We also dive into practi...

A solo episode this week, and I’m giving you all the top tips and tricks to perfect your LinkedIn profile to increase your visibility, credibility and opportunities.

Using LinkedIn effectively is not random. With the right strategy, you can optimise the way you appear to others and make sure that before you’ve even MET someone, you’re off on the right footing.

Let’s get stuck in…     

...      

Connect with Sophie:            

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-milliken            

Instagram: www.instagram.com/moja_sophie/

...             

Want to be a guest on Beyond the...

This week, I’m joined by The Content Confidence Coach Kate Llewellyn. As a content writer and former academic publisher, Kate helps small businesses to find clarity, confidence and their own voice in their marketing.

We talk strategy on the best ways to use online content to your advantage when establishing your image online.

We also cover top tips on where to get started if you’re nervous about your own visibility.

Let’s get stuck in…

...      

Connect with Kate:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/katellewellyn

Website: https://t...

This week, I’m joined by cognitive health expert, author and public speaker Natalie Mackenzie.

We talk about how she helps founders, leaders and entrepreneurs optimise their cognitive performance, tackle decision fatigue and avoid burnout.

Natalie shares her advice for staying calm when public speaking or presenting and explains why sticking with something you find difficult is one of the best things you can do for your brain.

Let’s get stuck in…

...      

Connect with Natalie:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/natalie-mackenzie-15a66235

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com...

121:  The Get Known Club with Sophie Milliken and Rachael Cook

This week, I am joined by Rachael Cook as we reveal all about the Get Known Club.

We explore how the idea came about and why membership to the club will be your key to a more organised and visible 2026.

We also dive into some of the benefits which will be enjoyed by our founding members.

Let’s get stuck in…     

...      

Join the Get Known Club waitlist: https://support.thisismoja.com/waitlist-join 

Connect with Sophie:            

Li...

This week, I’m joined by the Funding Godmother herself – finance expert and businesswoman Sarah Abel.

We explore how Sarah has transformed the often-intimidating world of government funding into an accessible and empowering experience for business owners.

We also discuss her journey in building a distinctive personal brand, why credibility through media exposure matters and how writing her book has had such a positive impact on her business and visibility.

Let’s get stuck in.

...       

Connect with Sarah:      

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sarah-abel-270a8724/

Facebook: www.facebook.com/sar...

This week, I am joined by property experts, public speakers, radio hosts and entrepreneurs Danny and Katie Bloomfield.  

We explore their dynamic of working together as a couple across a variety of business interests, strategies for balancing personal and professional life and their mission to impact a million lives positively. 

We also dive into their tips to avoid falling victim to the ‘Apathy Tax’ and why telling yourself that you can’t do something will make it true! 

Let’s get stuck in…     

...      

Connect with the Bloomfields:     

Facebook: facebook.com/DKBHomesLtd 

Visit their websi...

This week, I am joined by artist, actor, writer, presenter, singer, impressionist and radio host, Alfie Joey. Phew!

We explore how Alfie’s talent for public speaking has seen him juggle a whole host of different roles whilst keeping to one consistent message.

We also dive into Alfie’s passion for storytelling and how he believes we can all use stories better when crafting our own personal brands.

Let’s get stuck in…    

...     

Connect with Alfie:    

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alfie-speakeasyguy-joey

Connect with Sophie:           

Linke...

This week, I am joined by email marketing extraordinaire, public speaker, podcaster and business owner Jay Schwedelson.

We explore how you can make sure your emails get the clicks they deserve through using subject lines and scheduling to boost engagement.

We also dive into the impact of Jay's podcast on his personal brand, and how he successfully landed Hollywood superstar speakers at his GURU Conferences.

Let’s get stuck in…    

...     

Connect with Jay:    

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/schwedelson/

Website: jayschwedelson.com/

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@schwedelson <...

This week, I am joined by the Founder and Director of the Lloyds British Business Excellence Awards, Sarah Austin.

We explore her journey of establishing the awards, highlighting the important role played by the business community, the unique judging process and the opportunities available to anyone who enters.

We also dive into Sarah’s passion for supporting female founders and touch on some very exciting plans for this year’s ceremony.

Let’s get stuck in…   

...    

Connect with Sarah:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-austin-358a851a/

Check out the Britis...

This week, I am joined by speaker, coach and founder of ‘IS THIS YOU?’ John Forth.

We explore how John began taking his personal brand seriously in the last 18 months and the successes this has brought for him personally and professionally.

We also dive into how John juggles wearing multiple ‘hats’ as co-founder of his own business, mentor and coach at the North East BIC Growth Lab and a mental health charity ambassador.

Let’s get stuck in…   

...    

Connect with John:   

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnforth

Visit IS THIS YOU...

This week, I am joined by public speaker, entrepreneur and neurodiversity expert Helen Davies.

We explore the unique challenges Helen has faced while building her personal brand as a neurodivergent individual and why she’s so passionate about helping others unlock their full potential.

We also dive into the power of self-promotion through social media and share practical tips on handling criticism and focusing your energy on the audiences that truly matter.

Let’s get stuck in… 

...  

Connect with Helen: 

Email: Helen@practicalwisdom.uk

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.c...

This week, I am joined by business mentor, author and visibility strategist Helen Tudor.

Helen and I dive into how she built a multi-million-pound brand teaching entrepreneurs how to attract clients who align with them energetically and spiritually.

We also discuss why she decided to scrap her old business model and start again (despite being highly profitable) because she felt in her soul that it was time for something new.

Let’s get stuck in… 

...  

Connect with Helen: 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/helenctudor

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com...

In this episode, I'm joined by sisters Sharon and Lauretta Gavin, who transitioned from a successful comedy career to wellness entrepreneurs after Sharon's diagnosis with a rare autoimmune disease.

They discuss their journey into plant-based living, the creation of The Detox Barn retreat, and the importance of humour and realness within the wellness space.

The sisters also talk about their podcasting journey, how they navigate the crowded wellness space, busting wellness myths and their plans for new products.

Let’s get stuck in… 

...  

Connect with The Gavin Sisters: 

Website: h...

This week, I am joined by the UK’s leading Grey Blending expert, Rosie Baylis.

Rosie and I dive into how she has leveraged social media to build a strong personal brand and business around her niche.

We also discuss how Rosie established her successful Grey Blending Expert course, and how she provides a client experience so good that customers will travel hundreds of miles to see her!

Let’s get stuck in… 

...  

Connect with Rosie: 

Instagram: instagram.com/rosiebaylishair

TikTok: tiktok.com/@rosie_baylis

Facebook...

This week, I am joined by sales & mindset strategist, coach and creator of Irresistible Selling, Maria Bayer. Her programme and community help business owners from the wedding industry to create a million dollar mindset, stand confidently in their worth, and book high-paying clients they love.

Maria and I dive into the sales strategies she used to triple her income in less than a year, securing multi-million pound sales to global companies such as Target and Hyatt.

We also discuss networking tips, and how Maria went from the most introverted person in the room to the...

This week, I am joined by founder and managing director of Prohibition PR, Chris Norton.

Chris and I dive into the importance of measuring PR success, share some common pitfalls businesses face, and touch on striking the right balance between proactive and reactive PR.

We also discuss the impact AI is already having on our industry, and the importance of honesty in client relationships.

Let’s get stuck in…

... 

Connect with Chris:

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisnorton2/

Visit Prohibition PR: ht...

This week, I am joined by entrepreneur, business owner and public speaker Kamal Ellis-Hyman. Kamal was named Peter Jones’ National Entrepreneur of the Year and, through his company Aim A Little Higher, has spoken to over 125,000 students to help them shape their aspirations.

Kamal and I dive into his experiences helping young individuals become high performers in any setting, and why all employers should be nurturing future talent.

We also discuss how Kamal prepares for public speaking opportunities, and how creative pitching can help you to secure gigs that you previously might have given up on...

This week, I'm chatting about that back to school feeling, and why September can feel like a fresh start for your business too. Perhaps you’ve had a summer of entertaining the kids, so this might be the perfect moment to refocus and elevate your visibility.

I’m sharing practical tips on how to create a visibility calendar to ensure you’re raising your profile in the right places, without burning yourself out.

I cover the key elements to plan into your visibility calendar and explore why now is the ideal time to put your visibi...