Tired of playing by the rules? The She Who Dares Wins podcast is for the women who reject convention, challenge expectations, and carve their own damn way through life. Hosted by Michelle Hands—former construction engineer turned fearless storyteller—this podcast dives deep into the raw, unfiltered journeys of women who refuse to fit the mold.
If you've ever battled imposter syndrome, hesitated to take a risk, or felt the pressure to conform, this is your space. Expect bold conversations with trailblazers, adventurers, and industry disruptors who share their real stories of breaking barriers, building confidence, and rewriting success on their own terms.
🚀 What You'll Get:
✔️ No-fluff, high-impact conversations with women pushing boundaries
✔️ First-time experience stories & unconventional career pivots
✔️ Tactical steps to crush fear & own your confidence
✔️ Insights into thriving in male-dominated spaces
✔️ The perfect mix of adventure, risk-taking, and personal growth
This isn't your typical self-help show—it’s a call to action for women who want more. More adventure. More freedom. More hell yes moments. Tune in and join a community of unstoppable women who dare to win.
Daring to Survive: How Channel 4's Alone Star Eva Outram Conquered the Wild
Saison 4 · Épisode 29
jeudi 29 août 2024 • Durée 57:07
Join us for an exhilarating episode of the She Who Dares Wins podcast featuring Eva Outram, an extraordinary adventurer and survivalist who took on the ultimate challenge in the UK's "Alone" survival show. Eva speaks candidly with Michelle about her journey from NHS project management to thriving in the Canadian wilderness, facing her fears, and learning to survive with minimal resources.
Eva dives deep into her experience on "Alone," discussing the highs and lows of surviving alone in the Canadian wilderness. From the strenuous preparation and selecting her ten survival items to that fateful decision to finally confront nature head-on. She shares detailed insights on her mental and physical journey, including her strategies for coping with isolation, hunger, and even a nerve-wracking encounter with a bear. Through Eva's story, gain invaluable survival tips and a perspective on the importance of resilience and mental strength.
Key Takeaways:
Stepping Into the Unknown: Eva emphasized the importance of taking risks and stepping out of one's comfort zone to achieve something remarkable, regardless of initial fears.
Mental Resilience: Surviving in extreme isolation teaches valuable lessons in patience and emotional endurance, showcasing how critical mental strength is in overcoming physical challenges.
Resourcefulness in Survival: Eva's experience illustrated the necessity of resourcefulness, from choosing survival items to improvising daily shelter and sustenance.
Impact on Life Perspective: The stark experience in the wilderness allowed Eva to return with a fresh perspective on life, leading to significant changes in her personal and professional life.
Finding Joy: Eva advises imagining the most joyful life one could offer oneself and making incremental changes to incorporate more joy into daily existence.
Notable Quotes:
Eva: "I'm a big believer in doing things that really scare you."
Eva: "I didn't really have any survival skills, per se... But I went on Alone and lived off the land."
Eva: "I had my little piece of pemmican, so I chopped that up into, like, 20 tiny, tiny pieces."
Eva: "Patience was a big one... it used to take me 4 hours to boil a pan of water to be able to drink something."
Eva: "There must be something I'm going to enjoy more than this... I wasn't on autopilot anymore."
Resources:
Eva Outtrim's Bushcraft Business: [Website link if available]
Breaking the Good Girl Mold: Embrace Your True Potential with Meg Holloway
Saison 4 · Épisode 28
mercredi 21 août 2024 • Durée 44:20
In this engaging episode of the "Shoe Dares Wins" podcast, Michelle sits down with the inspiring Meg Holloway, founder of the Joy Project, to explore how she transitioned from a "good girl" living a conventional life to an empowering coach and leader in the realm of personal development. Meg, who was diagnosed with ADHD in her thirties, shares candidly about her journey of self-discovery, moving to the Lake District, and launching her own coaching business.
During the conversation, Meg dives deep into the concept of the "good girl," a persona she and many women struggle to break free from. By using practical examples from her own life and those of her clients, Meg provides valuable insights on overcoming limiting beliefs, dealing with imposter syndrome, and embracing one's true identity. Topics such as the impact of ADHD on women, the power of nature in personal growth, and the importance of community connection are threaded throughout the discussion, offering listeners a comprehensive guide to self-empowerment and joyful living.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing Change: Meg emphasizes how pivotal moments, like her ADHD diagnosis, can spur transformative changes and lead to personal and professional growth.
Breaking the Good Girl Mold: The episode focuses on how societal and self-imposed expectations create limiting beliefs and how women can break free to explore their true potential.
Power of the Outdoors: Discover the immense benefits of nature and outdoor activities in fostering mental clarity and personal insight.
Community and Connection: The importance of retreats and group activities in helping women find support and forge meaningful, empowering connections.
Resilience and Intuition: Meg underscores the significance of trusting one's intuition and resilience in the journey toward self-empowerment and authentic living.
Notable Quotes:
"We know most, if not all Adhders struggle with something called RSD, which is rejection, sensitivity, dysphoria."
"A large part of it was the pandemic—the amount of time I had with my thoughts and getting super bored of my own bullshit."
From Shy to Showstopper: Patia’s Artistic Journey on Two Wheels
Saison 4 · Épisode 19
jeudi 6 juin 2024 • Durée 54:56
In this episode of the She Who Dares Wins podcast, host Michelle engages in a heartfelt conversation with Patia, a trailblazing artist whose work bridges the gap between motorcycling, skateboarding, and art. The discussion delves deep into Patia's transformational journey from a shy, introverted girl to a confident, extroverted artist who dares to showcase her talents in public. With anecdotes about her exhibitions at major bike shows and solo journeys through the Welsh countryside, Patia's story is a testament to the power of stepping out of one's comfort zone.
Patia recounts her daring experience of getting her artwork recognized at London's Bike Shed Show, which started from her local research in West Yorkshire. Emphasizing the importance of networking and persistence, Patia shares how overcoming her initial nerves led to significant opportunities and collaborations with top brands. She also talks about her artistic process, customer collaborations, and the challenges of valuing and pricing one's creative work. The episode also reveals her adventures in skateboarding and her life-changing decision to move to the UK, highlighting her unrelenting spirit and passion for adventure and creativity.
Key Takeaways:
Embrace Your Passion: Patia's journey from Poland to the UK and her decision to blend art with motorcycling underscore the importance of following one's passion, despite external doubts or fears.
Networking is Key: Gaining recognition often involves stepping out of your comfort zone, attending events, and networking diligently.
Value Your Work: Understanding and communicating the worth of your artistic process is crucial when dealing with clients and setting prices for custom work.
Persistence Pays Off: Whether it’s sending countless follow-up emails or continuously improving your skills, persistence is essential for creative entrepreneurs.
Expanding Horizons: Patia's plans to offer workshops and online
Sweet Revolution: The Marshmallowists' Journey from Portobello to Prestige
Saison 4 · Épisode 18
jeudi 30 mai 2024 • Durée 43:08
Oonagh and Jenny, known as the Marshmallowists, are the pioneering duo behind the UK's first gourmet marshmallow brand. With a background in chocolatier training in Paris, Oona started selling her handmade confections on Portobello Road, only to find her marshmallows becoming an instant hit. Jenny joined her sister six months into the business to take on roles that complement Oonagh’s prowess in the kitchen. Together, they've built a company that not only crafts innovative marshmallow flavors but also collaborates with prestigious brands, stockists, and even ventured into creating tea cakes that are now their best-selling product.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we’re treated to a delectable discussion with Oonagh and Jenny, the sisters behind the gourmet marshmallow revolution in the UK. Known as the Marshmallowists, their story is one of daring ventures, innovative confectionery, and a testament to the sweet taste of success. From their early days on Portobello Road to their groundbreaking approach to marshmallow-making, Oonagh and Jenny share their journey of building a distinctive brand that has captivated palates across Britain.
As we delve into the world of gourmet confections with Oonagh and Jenny, they share insights into the intricate process of marshmallow creation, the challenges of operating in the food industry, and the thrill of evolving their brand with unique flavors and collaborations. Their passion for quality ingredients and their commitment to maintaining a hands-on approach to production are palpable throughout the conversation. New and established entrepreneurs alike will find inspiration in the sisters’ tenacity and creativity as they discuss the highs and lows of running a business fueled by innovation and a touch of sugar.
Key Takeaways:
Oonagh and Jenny created the first gourmet marshmallow brand in the UK, crafting a new market for their unique product.
The business success is attributed to a combination of luck, hard work, and the ability to navigate the volatile food industry effectively.
They emphasize the importance of maintaining a balance between celebrating achievements and managing the challenges of their growing business.
Operating on a four-day workweek, the sisters value a work-life balance, especially as they navigate entrepreneurship and motherhood.
Notable Quotes:Resources:
Entrepreneurial Grit and Gastronomic Glory: Hannah Hosanne's Recipe for Success
Saison 4 · Épisode 17
mercredi 22 mai 2024 • Durée 36:08
In this captivating episode of the Shehudaz Wins podcast, our host Michelle welcomes Hannah Hosanne, a multifaceted entrepreneur with deep roots in both the marketing and food industries. Hannah shares her courageous leap from traditional employment to launching her own businesses, providing valuable insights into the challenges and triumphs of self-employment.
Hannah delves into the conception and growth of Little Yellow Rice Co., a food venture that beautifully intertwines her personal narrative with her expertise in marketing. The business is a living homage to her great-grandfather, who migrated to Malaysia and founded a coffee shop, thus paving the way for future generations. She candidly discusses the ongoing journey of balancing her marketing firm and food business, and the importance of having a substantial, authentic concept at the core of any food venture. Hannah's passion for preserving her cultural identity through cuisine is palpable as she elaborates on the perseverance, community, and legacy integral to her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Key Takeaways:
Starting a business requires resilience and the readiness to seize opportunities while balancing them against personal values and desires.
Running a business is not always smooth sailing; one must be prepared for the highs and lows and continue to persevere through challenges.
Creatively drawing from personal heritage and culture can lead to a business model that is genuine, sustainable, and rich in legacy.
Hannah underscores the importance of cooking with an understanding of ingredients, as her food business strives to offer more than just a meal, but a connection to tradition and comfort.
The discussion touch on the significance of evolving a simple and authentic idea into a potentially permanent establishment and its associated logistics.
Notable Quotes:
"It was a bit of a leap to not just go and get another job."
"Something will always turn up if you position yourself in the right place and you're open to it."
"It's not a fun joy ride. Even when it's going well, you've still got to manage your books. You've still got to find a good accountant."
"It's, like, so nostalgic. It reminds me of. My grandma made me. I've not had that dish in 20 years."
In this episode, we invite Verity, an accomplished businesswoman and brewery co-founder, to share her inspiring journey and the driving force behind her decision to delve into the craft beer industry. The conversation delves into the nuanced challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship, especially during the turbulent onset of the pandemic. Verity narrates her experience with an engaging tone, touching upon family, work-life balance, and the essence of fulfillment in her professional endeavors.
Verity discusses the dynamics of the beer industry, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity and overcoming gender-oriented marketing in craft beer. As the podcast unfolds, insightful details emerge regarding the thoughtful process behind beer creation, strategic branding efforts, and the brewery's commitment to community engagement. SEO-friendly keywords that align with the episode's themes include "craft beer," "brewery startup," "women in business," "entrepreneurship journey," and "inclusive branding."
Key Takeaways:
Verity's transition from running a successful PR agency to co-founding a brewery reflects a fearless leap into a new entrepreneurial challenge.
Launching a business at the start of the pandemic required innovative approaches, such as engaging the community early through social media and pre-launch sales.
There is a strong emphasis on breaking down gender stereotypes in the beer industry and making the brewery experience more welcoming to women.
Verity highlights the community-driven and collaborative nature of the craft beer industry, including partnerships and supporting charitable causes.
The conversation reveals a contemplation of cautious growth for the brewery, weighing the importance of maintaining the brand’s unique ethos against expansion opportunities.
Notable Quotes:
"I just don't want a life that I'm unfulfilled with, so I do always strive to go for more."
"Why not join together; there's space for everyone. Well, I've literally never known anything so friendly and wonderful."
"It all kind of lined up together in those two months that he had off."
"Talking about a woman's role in the beer industry in more of a positive way than a negative and flipping it."
"Everyone drinks beer. No one's going to drink one brand."
Resources:
The Ripple Effect: Wild Swimming’s Role in Mental Wellness with Zoe Hall
Saison 4 · Épisode 15
jeudi 9 mai 2024 • Durée 51:54
Zoe Hall is a former teacher and a passionate advocate for wild swimming and the profound impact it can have on mental health and community building. After leaving a stressful career in teaching, Zoe has journeyed around the world, undertaking wild swimming adventures across different continents. She is now the founder of the Dippendales Co., which not only offers unique swimwear sourced from recycled materials but also organizes wild swimming and hiking retreats. Zoe is dedicated to creating inclusive spaces for women in the wild swimming community and promoting the mental and physical benefits that come with embracing the outdoors.
Episode Summary:
In this absorbing episode of the podcast, Zoe Hall shares her transformative journey from a teacher to the founder of Dippendales Co., highlighting her deep-rooted love for wild swimming. The conversation delves into Zoe's personal experiences, her adventures across the globe, and the inception of her business that intertwines her passion for swimwear design with the empowering activity of wild swimming.
Zoe's story is one of daring change and the pursuit of well-being through nature. With vivid anecdotes from her wild swimming adventures in places like Lake Louise, Canada, and the glacial lakes of Bavaria, the discussion illuminates the way these experiences shaped her philosophy towards life and work. The episode also explores the growth of wild swimming as a community and its benefits for mental health post-COVID, along with Zoe's aspirations to make a broader social impact through her retreats and potential charity work.
Key Takeaways:
Zoe Hall emphasizes the importance of pursuing personal well-being, even if it means leaving a secure career.
Wild swimming has been a part of Zoe's life since childhood, leading to her founding the Dippendales Co.
Community and inclusivity are central to Zoe's mission, inspiring women to embrace their bodies and the healing nature of water.
The growth of the wild swimming community highlights the activity's mental health benefits, especially following the lockdowns.
Zoe has aspirations to establish a charity to provide retreat access to those who can't afford it and to potentially manufacture swimwear in the UK.
Resources:
Hooked on Courage: The Female Fisherman’s Tale of Tenacity with Ashley Mullenger
Saison 4 · Épisode 14
jeudi 2 mai 2024 • Durée 29:40
Ashley Mullenger, prominently known as "The Female Fisherman," has garnered distinction in an industry dominated traditionally by males. Her journey stands as testimony to her audacity to break through gender barriers and thrive in a challenging and physically demanding profession. With her spirited dedication, Ashley was awarded "Fisherman of the Year," exemplifying her passion and prowess. She boldly ventures the seas, setting an exceptional narrative of tenacity and inspiration, particularly for women venturing into male-predominant spheres.
Episode Summary:
In this captivating episode of the "She Dares Wins" podcast, Ashley Mullenger opens up about her unique and trailblazing journey into the world of fishing, a sector where female presence is a rarity. The conversation dives deep into the intricacies of a fisherman's life, shedding light on the seldom-spoken truths about the profession and its cultural significance.
Ashley's narrative unfolds the complexities of the fishing industry and its hidden challenges, laying bare an ocean of knowledge far beyond what meets the eye. Her personal anecdotes revel in the accomplishment of pursuing what is not just a job but a calling. This episode offers not only a glimpse into the life of a fisherman but also Ashley's efforts to clarify misconceptions and advocate for an often misunderstood and underappreciated trade.
Key Takeaways:
Despite being a tough job, Ashley Mullenger displays the rewards of following one's dreams that appear unorthodox or daunting.
The fishing industry faces dire challenges with a steep decline in the number of fishermen and boats, emphasizing the urgency for its conservation and support.
Ashley's account serves as not only an illumination of the fishing industry but also as an empowerment for women entering predominantly male spaces, underscoring the transformation through sheer will and learning.
The conversation uncovers the sector's legislative and environmental intricacies that influence both the economy and the future of fishing communities.
Ashley's initiative helps bridge the gap between the public perception of fishing and its on-ground realities, cultivating a more informed and appreciative view of the industry.
Notable Quotes:Resources:
Into the Blue: Ruth Osborn and the Art of Freediving
Saison 4 · Épisode 13
mercredi 24 avril 2024 • Durée 56:52
Ruth Osborn is an accomplished freediver and national record holder renowned for her deep affinity with the ocean and expertise in underwater sports. Having been introduced to the water at a very young age, she honed her skills in competitive swimming and later, in various water-related activities such as kayaking, water polo, and scuba diving. She has successfully transitioned from training to competing, setting records for diving depths and continues to push the boundaries of the sport.
Episode Summary:
In this thrilling episode, listeners are plunged into the inspiring deep-sea world of Ruth Osborn, a freediving record holder with a profound connection to the ocean. Ruth captivates with her journey from a swimming enthusiast to a master of freediving, recounting her foray into the sport's serene yet demanding nature.
Ruth Osborn's narrative weaves through the early embrace of aquatic life, overcoming the challenges of equalization in freediving, and her eventual leap into competitions where she sets impressive records. Her commitment to the sport is apparent as she describes the intensive training and the mesmerizing experiences encountered underwater, from swimming with manta rays in the Blue Hole to delighting in the curious company of dolphins off of Ibiza. Ruth's holistic approach to freediving integrates attention to the body and mind, and she shares valuable insights into handling emotions like fear during her dives.
Key Takeaways:
Ruth Osborn has had a lifelong connection with water, which eventually led her to excel in freediving and set national records.
She stresses the importance of proper training and safety in freediving, always diving with a buddy and never alone.
Ruth's disciplined dedication and "grit" are key to overcoming challenges in freediving, particularly mastering equalization techniques.
The calm and focus required in freediving translate into a deeply peaceful experience, underlined by Ruth's encounters with marine life during her dives.
Responsible and ethical diving practices, including when to cease a dive for safety versus achieving a deeper depth, are central to Ruth's philosophy.
Notable Quotes:Resources:
Beyond the Comfort Zone: Cold Water Wisdom with Gilly McArthur
Saison 4 · Épisode 12
mercredi 17 avril 2024 • Durée 58:33
Gilly McArthur is a seasoned cold water swim coach hailing from the northeast of Scotland. With a vibrant history of embracing life's adventures, Gilly has transitioned from being a rock climber and working for a rock climbing firm to becoming an advocate for cold water swimming. Her unique journey includes profound experiences in extreme environments, including a youth expedition to Cameroon in search of a rumored surviving dinosaur, and a deep dive into the world of cold water immersion for mental and physical well-being. Today, she stands at the forefront of the cold water swimming community, encouraging others to lean into the transformative power of embracing the cold.
Episode Summary:
In this exhilarating episode, Gilly McArthur takes us through her fascinating journey from rock climbing in the Alps and the Lake District to diving into the transformative world of cold water swimming. As we navigate the depths of her experiences and insights, Gilly shares how she found solace and a sense of community in the chilly waters of the UK, despite initial reservations and the daunting aspect of hypothermia exploration.
Gilly candidly recounts her transition from a climbing-centric lifestyle to becoming a dedicated cold water swim coach, emphasizing the universal nature of water and its indifference to one's shape, age, or ability level. The episode bubbles with tales of adaptation, resilience, and the pure joy of finding motivation through challenges—in this case, motivated by the unifying element of cake among her swimming group.
Key Takeaways:
Cold water swimming provides significant mental and physical health benefits, promoting well-being and improving our ability to handle stressful situations.
The practice encourages resilience and teaches the value of persevering through uncomfortable conditions, leading to personal growth.
Community plays a vital role in cold water swimming, fostering an environment of support and mutual motivation often centered around shared experiences post-dip.
Gilly's journey demonstrates the importance of taking the leap to try something new, regardless of age or ability, highlighting that it's never too late to integrate transformative habits into one's life.
Notable Quotes:Resources:
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Despite offers to mass produce elsewhere, the Marshmallowists remain dedicated to handcrafting their confections in-house to maintain the high quality and distinctiveness of their products.
"Every day, basically, running this company is a gamble." – Oonagh
"We were the first ever gourmet marshmallow producer in the UK. So we had to build that market for ourselves, really." – Jenny
"The stakes get higher the longer you're invested in running your own business." – Jenny
"I moved to Paris when I was 18 to 20 trainers of chocolatier petit, and I just fell madly in love with fresh confectionery." – Oonagh
"It's very labor-intensive... No other company in the UK seems to make these [marshmallows]." – Oonagh
The Marshmallowists' website: https://www.themarshmallowist.com
"The sea asks nothing of you, just that you turn up and you give your full self."
"Being a woman in the fishing industry is incredibly, I don't want to say unique anymore, because there are more and more women actively joining, which is fantastic."
"We are an endangered species. That's how I see it anyway."
"You could be doing really, really well one week and the next week you can be destitute because of the weather."
Instagram: @thefemalefisherwoman
Book: "My Fishing Life" by Ashley Mullenger
Special Thanks to our Sponsors XTRATUF boots! Grab 25% off site wide using the code 24SHEWHODARESWINS25www.xtratuf.co.uk
The discussion points to a broader conversation about inclusivity and empathy in sport and adventure communities, urging individuals to be more understanding and supportive of diverse experiences and perspectives.
"The water doesn't care what shape you are. Yeah. Or what age you are or what ability you have. It just asks you to be there."
"By doing hard things, you can then do more hard things more easily."
"It's always going to be hard, but by doing hard things, you can then do more hard things more easily."
"The cold is like the destination. Once you're there, you're just there, you know?"
"Just crack on. There you go."
Gilly McArthur can be found sharing her cold water swimming adventures and coaching wisdom on Instagram. Follow Gilly @Gillymcarthur
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