Finishing the current run of episodes with an absolute bang, Kira Matthews brings her unique perspective to Women's Business to set you up for summer. Not asking for the opportunities you want because of your audience size? Kira will make you think again about simply asking for what you want, asking again, embracing the rejection that may come - and separating that from yourself. She is the perfect example of someone practising what she preaches too, with stories of her own experiences that she shares, alongside her particular ideas on manifesting, what it is and how she does it, and how that can challenge the world view that is generally created for us. 

All of this from a Gen Z with a whole load of wisdom - something that I am really passionate about my generation tapping into. One to listen to more than once to soak it all in - and then take action! 

Find Kira on Instagram here 

Find links to all of Kira's other 'stuff' here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. 

Women's Business will return in September. To pitch to be on the podcast or enquire about sponsorship head to the forms at the bottom of the page here.

How do you know when it's time to let your business go? Faced with comparison-itis online, alongside running a family, Emmy shares really openly here about her journey to doing just that. 

This episode takes in the full story, from the ego she was born with, to wanting to be famous, to channelling some of that into her clothing brand Sunday & Soul, to coming to the realisation that it was time to move on from it, and both the grief, and the feeling of freedom that came with that. 

Emmy's story echoes so much of my own, whilst being completely unique to her, and I think there will be so much to relate to in this story which is told with heart and honesty, and a few tears too! 

Ayesha Ofori started her career in investment banking, with a simple view to paying off her student debt, but after advancing quickly and managing a portfolio of $500m, she realised the work didn't align with her values, and turned her hand to helping others build their wealth through property investment as she had, founding Black Property Network, followed swiftly by Propelle - a community, education and investment platform for women. 

Ayesha's insight on peeling back the curtain on investing and making it accessible for women is both fascinating to listen to, and highly informative, but she also talks with great honesty about how she balances work and home life too. So many highlights in this episode which I hope you'll love! 

Find Ayesha on Instagram here

Find Propelle on Instagram here

Join the waitlist for Propelle here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

Or subscribe to my Substack here 
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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - check out my 30% off discount code and try it for yourself.  Wild is the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners.  Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.  Use code BUSINESS30 for 30% off sitewide. Shop Wild now!

This episode comes with a trigger warning for baby loss, which enters the conversation at 13 minutes in. 

Sarah Tobin started her career in advertising before a traumatic birth and the subsequent death of her daughter left her with PTSD, a physical pain in her chest every day, and a choice - to either give into the pain, or to move forward, choose happiness, and start healing. Sarah chose the latter, and this is her incredible story of resilience and the power of the technique she used then and still uses now to process the trauma she experienced - tapping, which is also known as Emotional Freedom Technique.

It's a technique I've had in my wellbeing toolkit for many years, so talking to Sarah - who re-trained as an EFT practitioner after it transformed her life - was a really personal experience for me, and I wanted her to share just how brilliant and accessible tapping is for anyone who suffers with anxiety and trauma.

We talk about starting out with EFT if you're new to it, the science behind it, and Sarah's journey that led her to that pivot, which has ultimately brought her to a place where she helps other mums (and their families) navigate difficult times. 

In spite of Sarah's heartbreaking loss this is actually an incredibly positive and inspiring story of what Sarah has done to turn her daughter Alice's legacy into a positive one, that goes on. 

Find Sarah on Instagram here 

Find Sarah's website here 

Find Sarah on YouTube here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here 

Or subscribe to my Substack here 

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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - check out my 30% off discount code and try it for yourself.  Wild is the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners.  Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.  Use code WOMENSBUSINESS for 30% off sitewide. Shop Wild now!

In this episode, former Editor-In-Chief of Hello! Magazine Rosie Nixon, talks about her early love of magazines and how that laid the foundations for what she went onto do, tells me about her favourite scoops at the helm of Hello! but then offers total honesty on what happened as she approached burn out. The changes Rosie made as a result of that phase have set her up for this new chapter, enjoying a portfolio career to broaden her horizons, lower the stakes, and create more time for her family. 

She also tells me about the lightbulb moment she experienced when she realised she was in the depths of peri-menopause, the signs and symptoms, and how she advocated for herself to get the necessary treatment, and tips on how others can do the same. 

Find Rosie on Instagram here.

Check out Rosie's website here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. 

You can subscribe to my Substack here. 

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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - check out my 30% off discount code and try it for yourself.  Wild is the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners.  Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.  Use code WOMENSBUSINESS for 30% off sitewide. Shop Wild now!

In this second birthday episode, host of Woman's Hour Emma Barnett turns the mic on ME - Nicky Elliott - to hear my own career story. 

This conversation covers:

• My early memories of work
• How I stumbled into events
• How I founded my first business
• The mat leave project that became Wilder Ones
• How I feel about being a 'provider'
• My pivot into podcasting and empowering women
• My plans for the future

Will total openness from the get-go on my financial losses and gains, lessons learnt, and my new mission, this episode is for anyone who has listened to the pod so far and has wanted to hear my own story - with some friendly banter between me and my long-time friend Emma in the mix. 

Find Emma on Instagram here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation on Instagram here. 

You can subscribe to my deeper dive essays on all we discuss on my Substack here. 

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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - it's the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners. 
Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. 
They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.
 Use code WOMENSBUSINESS for 30% off sitewide. Go wild!

In this special episode to celebrate ONE YEAR of Women's Business I've invited back my first ever guest – the one and only Frankie Tortora – to do a review of the year with me, pulling out some themes that have come up, got us all thinking, and sparked brilliant discussions.  

Frankie acts as both host and guest, picking the topics (out of her sparkly unicorn hat!) and discussing them all with me, sharing her personal experiences and stories, while I share my insight and highlights from the last 30 episodes of the podcast – what I've learnt, what I've loved, and what's really stayed with me.

Topics covered include:

• Mental Load
• Career Trauma 
• Careers Advice 
• Multi-Hyphen Careers
• Measures of Success

A massive THANK YOU if you've listened to any episode this year. Year two here we go!

Find Frankie and everything to do with her work, her community, and her brilliant podcast for freelance parents here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here.

You can subscribe to my Substack for deep dive essays on some of our discussions here.

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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - it's the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners. 

Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. 

They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.

 Use code WOMENSBUSINESS for 30% off sitewide. Go wild!

From whirlwind romances and moving across the world to starting her own coaching business and networking group - Laura Cruise has had a fascinating journey and it has left her filled with wisdom and perspective that everyone will learn something from. 

This episode covers so much, including: 

• Why supporting other women can only lead to good things
• Acknowledging when something isn't serving you any more 
• Tangible advice on how to work on an idea to get real confidence in it 
• Allowing things to take time 
• The problem with niching too soon 

And so much more besides. Laura and I had a fantastic chat which really stayed with me. I know there will be value in here for you.

Find Laura's website here

Find Laura on Instagram here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

To find out more about my public speaking work and events head here 

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Thank you so much to Wild for sponsoring this episode - it's the only deodorant brand I use and it really works, so they are my dream partners. 

Wild is the UK's number 1 natural deodorant company featuring a fully sustainable design and recyclable refills. 

They've also recently launched a luxe 100% plastic free body wash which I love – it comes in an aluminium case with compostable refills.

 Use code WOMENSBUSINESS for 30% off sitewide. Go wild!

In this episode, founder, marketeer, mum, and content creator Lorna Hayward takes me on her career journey that takes in everything from starting out in TV, to moving into marketing, to starting her own series of sell-out 'Pizzup' events almost by accident, but we also go deeper, delving into the recent events that led her to realise that she attaches so much of her self-worth to work. 

In the course of this discussion we tried to unpack some of the societal pressures that lead so many women to feel that way too, whilst also covering how we can try to un-attach our self-worth from work, whilst still finding meaning in purpose in what we do for a living. 

Find Lorna on Instagram here

Find out more about Lorna's inclusive events for women - Pizzup - here 

Don't forget to join the conversation on all things life and careers with me on Instagram here 

Or to find out more about me, my work and the podcast, head to my website here

In this episode, author and founder Liv Thorne talks about her career as well as her solo parenting journey for the first time. Covering everything from the early life events that made her commitment-phobic, to her overwhelming desire to be a mother, more than a partner, we discuss how Liv ended up co-founding her own business at the same time as embarking on her journey to solo motherhood - something she went on to write a book about. We also discuss Liv's unique set of circumstances, how she makes life and career work with that in mind, as well as her hopes for the future. This chat is fun, funny, moving and thought-provoking all at the same time. 

Find Liv on Instagram here

Find Liv's book here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

If you enjoy Women's Business please rate or review. I love you for it! 

To find out more about me and my work head to thewildercollective.co.uk

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This episode is sponsored by memenopause.com 

Me.MeNoPause brings natural products that work to women struggling with symptoms of the menopause and peri-menopause.

They have curated a Menopause Relief Kit - the only complete daily menopause relief routine which combines a unique plant-based natural menopause vitamin complemented with effective herbal remedies to get you through the day. They even guarantee you a full refund if you don't see results within 30 days.

They work exclusively with expert-led and nutritionist recommended products which are designed to bring back some much-needed normality to women's lives. And importantly they only work with brands who use high quality natural ingredients, with no nasty fillers and additives. Yes please.

Use discount code WilderOnes10 for 10% off your first order, and
Visit Memenopause.com to find out more

In this episode floral designer and mum of three Afia Bayayi takes me on her fascinating journey from straight A student to teacher to business owner, with home educating three children thrown into the mix. 

Afia's insight on the education system, and the responsibility of teachers is fascinating, but so is her take on how she knew she'd be an entrepreneur, and how she found the thing that would take her on that journey, by - as she puts it - simply looking at what was in her hands. 

We also talk the life events that gave Afia extreme perspective and the ultimate push to start her business, how she manages her workload, some of the myths surrounding home educating, and the skills she wants to arm her children with by the time they leave school.

A conversation I'll definitely revisit and one I think you'll take a really fresh perspective from. 

Find Afia's floral business on Instagram here

Find Afia's parenting and home educating journey here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

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This episode is sponsored by memenopause.com 

Me.MeNoPause brings natural products that work to women struggling with symptoms of the menopause and peri-menopause.

They have curated a Menopause Relief Kit - the only complete daily menopause relief routine which combines a unique plant-based natural menopause vitamin complemented with effective herbal remedies to get you through the day. They even guarantee you a full refund if you don't see results within 30 days.

They work exclusively with expert-led and nutritionist recommended products which are designed to bring back some much-needed normality to women's lives. And importantly they only work with brands who use high quality natural ingredients, with no nasty fillers and additives. Yes please.

Use discount code WilderOnes10 for 10% off your first order, and

Visit Memenopause.com to find out more

Sometimes a conversation flows, and this is one of those, where Michele's story unfolded in the most natural way, with loads of learnings along the way.

From her early life growing up in and around the family business, to her stint in marketing, to accidentally setting up a stationery brand, but then very intentionally scaling that brand, Michele has a really interesting story and useful insight into building a business with purpose in every sense of the word. 

Shop Once Upon A Tuesday here

Find Once Upon A Tuesday on Instagram here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

In this episode, wedding celebrant and writer Holly June Smith talks to me about her lifelong love of storytelling, and her journey to becoming a self-published author. 

We discuss Holly's early foray into the world of film-making, her side step into the charity sector, and the myth of having it all that made her turn her love of love stories into a full-time job when she became a wedding celebrant, which she continues to do now alongside being a self-published author of some seriously great and spicy romance novels.

Holly and I share a love of romance stories, romantic comedies and yes – romatic teen drama Dawson's Creek, which was a formative show for both of us – so we dive into that as part of a wider discussion about the romantic comedy genre and the tropes and story arcs they usually explore.

There's also great insight for anyone who wants to write and put their work out into the world. Holly discusses her initial snobbery around self-publishing, how wrong she was, and how well it works for her as she grows her back catalogue. 

In this episode, Lee McKay Doe AKA The Career Therapist, opens up about her own climb up the career ladder, and the moments of trauma that triggered her to make a change and start to work to help others navigate career trauma, burnout, and stress. 

From discussing conditions of worth, to purpose, and the deep work required to unlearn some of our behaviours, this episode is a deep dive into how early trauma can impact our careers, and how career trauma can in turn impact our lives. Plus, Lee gives advice and suggestions for our own self-reflection to help us manage our own career trauma, or patterns of behaviour. 

Sit down with a pen and paper and be prepared for this free therapy session! It's not always comfortable, but there's so much food for thought - including a look at some of my own career trauma and how I've nagivated that. 

Find Lee on Instagram here 

Find Lee's website here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

If you enjoyed this episode please follow so you don't miss future episodes, and rate and review to help others find the podcast.

In this episode Rosie takes us on her journey from being the school-hating, business-minded daughter of an entrepreneur, to falling into the world of PR and becoming a total disruptor in that space, with her no-billshit, product-focused approach that anyone can follow with great results. We also talk about Rosie's amazing resilience in pivoting her business when it was needed, all with a small baby on her and another one promptly on the way. Another true testament to the amazingness of women, you will take inspiration from Rosie's story, and tangible tips on building your brand, be it product-based, service-based, or personal brand. 

Find Rosie on Instagram here

Find out more about PR Dispatch here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

If you enjoyed this episode please follow so you don't miss future episodes, and rate and review to help others find the podcast.

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This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

In this episode slow business mentor and cyclical living advocate Jen Wright talks about the power of listening to your cycle, along with tools on how to implement cyclical living in a simple way, that goes far beyond just your period. But we also cover so much more, from what we can learn from our children who take situations as they find them, to the power in being fired, to postnatal depression, the struggle of motherhood and re-imagining the workplace for women. We covered so much and this conversation really stayed with me. Serious food for thought! 

Find Jen's website here 

Find Jen on Instagram here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

If you enjoyed this episode please follow so you don't miss future episodes, and rate and review to help others find the podcast. 

In this episode Charlotte Morley, founder of children's clothing rental website The Little Loop, talks to me all about her journey from the Ministry of Defence, to teaching, to tech, and ultimately founding her current business, which broke records on Dragons' Den as the first business to secure double the investment she had asked for, from double the dragons - Steven Bartlett and Deborah Meaden no less! 

There is so much to take on board in this episode - from paying it forward, to finding purpose, to the problems with academic measures of success, to starting a project on mat leave, and the future of fashion - we really do cover so much and Charlotte is such a down-to-earth yet totally inspiring woman to listen to. 

Find The Little Loop here 

Find Charlotte and the team on Instagram here 

Don't forget to join the conversation on my Instagram too - here. 

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This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

In this episode, podcaster, journalist, content creator and mum of three Alison Perry talks to me about how she always wanted to write, and her journey from penning her own Sweet Valley High books, to working at some of the most famous magazines of the noughties, to writing her own book for twin parents. We also talk about why niching isn't on Alison's radar as she continues to adds more strings to her bow, with a recent foray into podcast production, alongside setting up her first physical business - a kids' sleepover party concept. PLUS... more to enjoy on toxic noughties magazine culture, talking to our kids about work, and her hopes the future. 

Find Alison on Instagram here.

Listen to Alison's Podcast 'Not Another Mummy Podcast' here. 

Find out about Alison's podcast production services here. 

Book Alison's sleepover party service for your kiddos here. 

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This episode is sponsored by Good Wash Day  Our hair is most vulnerable when wet, and Good Wash Day T-shirt towels reduce friction, damage, dryness, frizz and drying time. They're made from the softest organic jersey cotton and are perfect for all hair types. Wavies and curlies can use them to plop! They're super gentle and lightweight, so are suitable for sensitive skin and those experiencing hair loss and regrowth. All Good Wash Day towels are made in the UK from ethically sourced fabrics (where people and planet are protected), and have been approved by a Harley Street-based Consultant Trichologist.
Use code WB10 for 10% off your first order to support this awesome female-founded small business.

In this episode, self-confessed small business cheerleader Holly Tucker MBE, talks to me about the incredible full circle moment she's experiencing, setting up her new online marketplace Holly&Co, almost twenty years after she co-founded notonthehighstreet. 

In this deep dive into Holly's career we talk how different the landscape was when she first became an entrepreneur and set up her first business, and what gave her the drive to become the only woman to create two online marketplaces. Plus we talk the power of building her personal brand, finding the balance of purpose and profit, and the mission she has mapped out for the next twenty years. 

Shop at Holly & Co here 

Find Holly on Instagram here 

Find Holly & Co on Instagram here 

Listen to Holly's podcast Conversations of Inspiration here 

If you love this episode don't forget to follow so you don't miss future episodes. And a rating / review helps other people know it's worth a listen! Please also join the conversation on Instagram 

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Thank you so MUCH to Peachie for sponsoring this episode. Peachie is a fantastic female-founded brand ready to tackle the taboo around the menopause and  meet our needs in a positive way. At Peachie HQ a love of good food has been combined with the nutritional know-how of experts. 

In this episode, Laura Mallows - founder of Mallows Beauty - talks to me about her incredible journey from dropping out of her uni course to pursue her passion, to how hand sanitiser funded the beginnings of her brand, and accidentally becoming a direct-to-consumer business thanks to a pandemic and pivot into selling on Instagram and TikTok, which saw her follower count and her orders blow up. Laura is a whirlwind personality with so much determination and self-belief, who also talks candidly about her issues with body image, which were a huge factor in her starting the business and spreading her mission to empower young men and women to be their true selves, free of air-brushing. 

If you love this episode don't forget to follow so you don't miss future episodes. And a rating / review helps other people know it's worth a listen! 

Please also join the conversation on Instagram 

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This episode is sponsored by Good Wash Day 

Our hair is most vulnerable when wet, and GoodWash Day T-shirt towels reduce friction, damage, dryness, frizz and drying time. They're made from the softest organic jersey cotton and are perfect for all hair types. Wavies and curlies can use them to plop! They're super gentle and lightweight, so are suitable for sensitive skin and those experiencing hair loss and regrowth. All Good Wash Day towels are made in the UK from ethically sourced fabrics (where people and planet are protected), and have been approved by a Harley Street-based Consultant Trichologist.

Use code WB10 for 10% off your first order to support this awesome female-founded small business. 

Clemmie Telford is a cretive director, content creator, writer and podcaster. In this episode Clemmie and I take a deep dive into her early career and ambition, her stint at Facebook, and how she became a first-wave Instagram influencer, plus we talk changing ambition, going sober, and what might be next for her. 

Find Clemmie online at the links below: 

https://motherofalllists.com/

https://www.instagram.com/clemmie_telford/

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/but-why/id1553074696

https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/honestly-podcast-with-clemmie-telford/id1460659769

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Thank you to Bath and Unwind for sponsoring this episode.

Bath & Unwind are in the business of making people feel good. They provide customers a place to indulge in the finest beauty and wellbeing products that has a relaxed, boutique feel.

Customer experience is their number one priority. Whether it's adding unexpected treats or their generous reward scheme, they always over-deliver. Their customer care reps are trained beauty therapists and undergo training with all brands where relevent.

Use code POD15 for 15% off your first order. 

Sam Taylor is founder of The Good Factory and is now partnering with DeRonde Creative Hub to make the fashion world a better, more sustainbale and ethical place. From the sexist attitudes that killed Sam's early ambitions to study astrophysics, to the family legacy that led to her entering the world of clothing manufacture and production, Sam's journey is not only interesting, but offers essential listening on fast fashion, and arming yourself with the knowledge to make better buying choices. 

If you enjoy this episode please subscribe / follow for more

For more conversations on women and their greatness find me on Instagram 

In this episode marketing expert Hannah Isted talks to me about her journey to creating The Best 90 Days Ever - a membership based on daily ten-minute marketing wins - and writing a bestselling book of the same name, to help business owners nail their marketing with just ten minutes a day. 

Hannah's journey takes in her early interest in becoming a forensic scientist, before she got started in marketing and found a real flair for it, starting her own marketing agency in her early twenties. Hannah also talks to me about the chronic illness that means working for herself means she can go with her own energy and work as efficiently as possible outside of a conventional 9-5, and how underthinking has been her superpower, allowing her to worry less, and act more - something I think all over-thinkers can learn from! 

Finally, Hannah shares some tangible advice on how to get some ten minute marketing wins in your own business. 

Find Hannah on Instagram here.

Find Hannah's website and info on the next intake for The Best 90 Days Ever here

Join me on Instagram here. 

Kirstie Beaven is the founder of Sonshine, a magazine all about raising boys for an equal world. For Kirstie, having her son left her floundering for resources on how best to raise him in the modern world, so she created one herself.

This story takes us on that journey, from growing up with mixed heritage in a white area, to her education, to working in the arts, to starting her magazine and growing her online community as a safe space to hold important discussions about how we can build a future that is fair for all our kids. 

Light topics discussed include patriarchy, kids clothing, and the importance of written text for historical record. A truly fascinating and insightful discussion to come back to again and again. 

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This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

In today's episode Kelly Taylor, AKA Kids And The Commute tells us about her Nan's work ethic that influenced her early on, her formative love of television and storytelling, her dream job at the BBC and her decision to leave that all behind to go all in on her role as a content creator, at the age of 40. This episode peels back the curtain on the life of a content creator, from securing brand partnerships to growing a thick skin and sharing your life online, all while carrying through the thread of storytelling that has always fascinated Kelly. Full of honesty, as well as advice for any budding young content creators, this is an insight into a thoroughly modern job, and how Kelly makes that work for her. 

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This episode is sponsored by Good Wash Day who make organic jersey T-shirt towels for your hair to reduce friction, damage, dryness, frizz and drying time. Perfect for all hair types, they're also ideal 'plopping' towels for wavies and curlies. They're super gentle and lightweight, so are suitable for sensitive skin and those experiencing hair loss and regrowth. All Good Wash Day towels are made in the UK from ethically sourced fabrics (where people and planet are protected), and have been approved by a Harley Street-based Consultant Trichologist. Use the code WB10 for 10% off your first order. 

Emmie Faust, repeat exited founder and now leader of Female Founder Rise tells her fascinating story from selling photoshoot sessions for her first pay cheques, to accidentally finding her niche in the gambling industry, alongside the chance meeting with her business partner. Emmie talks about her mission now to get people to invest in women, and her community that brings women raising capital together with events and resources to support them. Throw having four children in the mix somewhere along the way, and this is a story sure to inspire. 

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This episode is sponsored by Earnt

EARNT is an original concept designed to create a new eco-system for brands, their fans, and causes that need help. The system is designed to re-imagine who a VIP is and what is means to be one.

How does it work?

The brand (with EARNT's help) chooses a cause / project that chimes with their values. A mission is then created and the brand lets their fans know where to be and when (and what they can expect as a thank you!) Those that take part in the projects are then prioritised by the brand for VIP treatment; first access, discounts, queue jumps, exclusive experiences, and limited editions - effectively becoming part of the brand's inner circle by earning their place. 

With a strong work ethic from the off, and after stumbling into a research role to meet a uni course requirement, Emma found her passion for analysing data, and the skills she honed as a result have led her on a fascinating journey through play and playfulness, working with some of the world's biggest brands along the way, and leading her to set up her consultancy business Playful Den. A must-listen for any parents, we also talk encouraging creativity in our kids, how to talk to our kids about their interests through the lens of work and careers, and how ALL of us can live more playfully. 

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This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

In this episode, fashion consultant Elizabeth Stiles tells me about her journey into the world of fashion, through formative experiences (and horror stories!) at big brands, to capitalising on her expertise to become a consultant. A must-listen for anyone wanting to pivot into a career in fashion, or with children considering this career path, this episode has some really tangible advice to get you on the right track. 

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This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

Stacey Heale is a writer, and fashion academic who has shared her life online for many years, including through the death of her husband, Greg, in 2021. Greg's death impacted Stacey and her life and work hugely, so of course we do discuss her grief journey, but I really wanted to make sure that this was Stacey's story, and it's a fascinating one at that. A must-listen for anyone who has - or thinks they have - ADHD, Stacey takes us through uni drop outs, early jobs, working through Greg's diagnosis, illness and death, and where that has led her to now, all the time speaking so candidly and openly about her journey. 

Steph Douglas is the founder of personalised gifting company Don't Buy Her Flowers. Created to offer more thoughtful and personal gifts for new mums, the company has evolved to offer personalised gift boxes for all occasions. In this episode Steph talks about her early work life, the lightbulb moment that led her to setting up her business, the rollercoaster of running a small business, and the unplanned other directions that has led her in. We also discuss the struggle of sharing parental responsibilities, and Steph's personal journey to address the balance at home. Filled with small business insight, relatable moments and food for thought, this episode has a little bit of everything!

Listen to the Don't Buy Her Flowers podcast here. 

This episode is sponsored by Neon Digital Clicks, an e-commerce growth agency partnering with Shopify brands who are ready to scale. Working across Meta ads, TikTok ads, Google ads and Klaviyo for brands specialising in products for kids, parents and women. They are offering a free audit to all Women's Business listener, so if you own a small business and are interested in scaling get in touch with the team for your no obligation audit. 

In this episode, Rachel Harris talks about her journey from maths-obsessed kid to founder of rapidly-scaling accountancy firm StriveX, which she is growing alongside her personal brand. As a disruptor of the 'pale, male and stale' stereotype that surrounds accountants, Rachel is re-writing the script on finance and accountancy, using her online platforms to grow her audience and her customer base, with amazing results. This episode will inspire everyone. Enjoy!

https://www.instagram.com/accountant_she/

https://www.youtube.com/@accountantshe

https://www.tiktok.com/@accountant_she

This episode is sponsored by Bath & Unwind, a beauty website providing customers a place to indulge in the finest beauty and wellbeing products with a relaxed, boutique feel and a personalised shopping experience from their trained beauty therapists. 

Bath & Unwind stock favourite brands such a Aesop, Caudalie, Nuxe, Colour Wow, Olaplex and many more. Listen to the episode for your 15% discount code. 

In this episode, Carly talks about her journey - from starting at the bottom of the film industry, to running her own business as a female filmmaker making award-winning short films. Plus we talk resilience, careers advice, and how ambition can move along a spectrum depending on your phase of life. Find Carly on Instagram here or visit her website here

In this episode Liz talks about having a true vocation and the different ways she could have interpreted that, and the path she ultimately took to becoming a graphic designer. She also talks about the balance of working with kids, diversifying income streams, and how showing up and being consistent with your values can lead to opportunities you didn't expect. Find out more about Liz here. 

Alice Loveday first fell in love with stop motion when her Dad borrowed a camera from the BBC and made her teddy bears dance. Her fascination with the creative, tactile magic of the medium endures to this day, and in this conversation we talk about her beginnings in the film industry, her entrepreneurial mother, her lucky breaks, and how she ultimately came back to stop motion as a fun, personality-filled way for small businesses to showcase their products. 

However, Alice's journey has not been without challenges, and we talk about how she tackled growing the business (with a new baby on her hip), and then navigating owning a growing business in a difficult climate, and how she innovated to keep her business going. 

Alice's positivity beams through here, and I think there are lessons aplenty to reflect on. 

Find Alice on Instagram here

Find Alice's website here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here 

Or subscribe to my Substack here 

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BIG NEWS! My new community for female founders and freelancers has officially launched! If you're looking for a low cost, no pressure place to hang out (online and offline) with fellow (amaaaazing) females on the journey, then apply now - the doors are only open until Tuesday 25th June, when they will close until September. We already have 50+ amazing women through the doors and it's bloody amazing. If you want to know more or apply now check out the link below!

https://thewildercollective.co.uk/

In this episode, Lucy Hitchcock talks about fighting against the concept of being a jack-of-all-trades, and instead asserts herself as master of a few, as she discusses how she runs her products-based business, and service-based business, whilst also building her personal brand. 

In today's episode, serial entrepreneur Yvonne talks about her early career, her first foray into entrepreneurship - which led to an appearance on Dragon's Den - and chasing her ultimate dream to set up her own events space. Yvonne's 'feel the fear and do it anyway' attitude is totally infectious and will offer food for thought for anyone thinking about setting up their own business. 

Find out about Yvonne's event space here.https://www.tyrostudios.com/

In this episode, Ellie Austin-Williams - founder of This Girl Talks Money - talks candidly about her early entrpreneurial spark, a big career change, and about being a woman in a man's world, as she builds her online educational platform talking to women about money. Find out more about Ellie here

In this episode, Suzy discusses using failure to redirect you, and how the intersection of two major events in her life, set her on the path that she's still on today. Find out more about her here.

In this episode Jen talks about parental expectations, and how missing out on going to uni turned out not to be the catastrophe she thought it was, plus how a lightbulb moment with her own baby led her to set up one of the most innovative baby brands on the market today. 

In this episode, Frankie chats about how her parents' work impacted her as she grew up, the career path she took before finding graphic design, and the factors that led to her setting up her freelance community for parents: Doing It For The Kids. Expect a healthy dose of real talk on work/life balance, parenting, passive income, saying no, and lots more!

Megan Rossiter left a top private school to pursue her love for the stage, before jobbing in that profession and realising there was no clear plan, plus taking some knocks to her self-confidence, before taking a left turn into midwifery. That experience led her to eventually set up Birth Ed. Through her courses & UK top 10 parenting podcast, Megan has supported 1000s of families worldwide to prepare for satisfying, autonomous and confident experiences of birth & parenting.

In this conversation we deep dive into the issues within the UK maternity system, Megan's thoughts on how to tackle that, and how Birth Ed is her way of helping people navigate the system through education and self-advocacy. 

A fascinating conversation with incredible insight from Megan, in which I learnt so much. I really think it's essential listening for anyone. 

Find Megan on Instagram here. 

Find Megan's website here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. 

And subscribe to my Substack here. 

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Thank you so much to Smart Buy Glasses for supporting this episode.

The team at SmartBuy are on a mission to help people see and be healthy regardless of their budget, and with 342 available brands on their website just now, it's safe to say they've got everyone covered whether you need prescription lenses, eyeglasses, sunglasses or contact lenses.

With tools like virtual try-on – which I used to choose my new glasses and sunnies – as well as pupillary distance measurement and lens scanner, they use the latest tech to make the whole process easy and enjoyable.

Use code NICKY10 for 10% off your first purchase and head to smartbuyglasses.co.uk to get yours. 

Carla Saull went through a difficult childhood and started pot washing at 13 years old, dropped out of school with one O level, and got married young, all before finding her person in her late twenties and starting again - for the first time, but not the last. Taking in a career break to raise her sons, and a business degree in her forties, Carla's determination to make something of herself and bring purpose to her life through work has been a red thread through her life, all supported by her husband who believed in her when she wasn't ready to yet, and is part of her fascinating journey to setting up Good Wash Day, which is her business baby - currently in its difficult toddler years. 

Carla's story is one of determination, love, inspiration and a strong entrepreneurial spirit. A chat I really enjoyed, and I know you will too. 

Find Good Wash Day here. 

Find Carla and GWD on Instagram here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here.

Or Subscribe to my Substack here. 

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Thank you so much to https://www.smartbuyglasses.co.uk/ for supporting this episode. 

The team at SmartBuy are on a mission to help people see and be healthy regardless of their budget, and with 342 available brands on their website just now, it's safe to say they've got everyone covered whether you need prescription lenses, eyeglasses, sunglasses or contact lenses. 

With tools like virtual try-on – which I used to choose my new glasses and sunnies – as well as pupillary distance measurement and lens scanner, they use the latest tech to make the whole process easy and enjoyable.

all Use code NICKY10 for 10% off your first purchasw and head to smartbuyglasses.co.uk to get yours 

Excuse me while I take my hat off to this powerhouse of a woman who has been dealt so many of life's curveballs, and has handled them with grace and her own relentless optimism. 

Ro Feilden-Cook found herself newly single and pregnant in her last year of uni, only to find out she was actually expecting twins. Fast forward a short while to when her boys were less than a year old, and she recognised that one of them was developmentally different, and started out the long journey to getting his disability diagnosed. Ro persevered through the darkest of times as a single mum, before reuniting with the boys' dad when they were 5, and going onto marry him and have another baby. And alongside all of this she was figuring out her career, first founding a catering business which she later sold, before finding fitness and the impact it had on her mental health, and founding her second business The She Collective - a wellness app for women. 

Ro's story is quite unbelievable. She has been through some unquestionably difficult things but her outlook is beautifully positive, and that shines through in this chat which is sure to offer inspiration to anyone. 

Find Ro on Instagram here

Find Ro's website here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here 

Or on LinkedIn here 

Subscribe to my Substack here 

You might know Emma Nicolet as your favourite self-confessed 'Joyfluencer' on Instagram where she shares snapshots of real family life, with palpable honesty, but I bet you don't know how she got there.

From her experience of boarding at a performing arts school, and how that has impacted her confidence throughout the rest of her life, this story takes in how Emma's love of making people happy has been a thread throughout her career - whether that was in her first job at McDonald's, dressing up as Elsa for kids' parties, or presenting on the radio, it's something she has carried through into her work and life now as an accidental influencer.

Emma shares honestly about how that came about, the balance of making that work for her and her family, and what comes next for her. 

It's a unique story delivered with real heart. Enjoy! 

Find Emma on Instagram here

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here

Or subscribe to my Substack here 

If you'd like to enquire about sponsoring any future episodes of Women's Business please get in touch here. 

Rebecca Seal started her career moving up the ranks in print journalism, in a clear break away from the heavy work she had seen her parents do, before accidentally having a TV career, alongside being a cook book writer and journalist. But, when facing burnout from working alone and seeking a resource to help her through it - and finding there wasn't one - she wrote one herself, and so began a new phase of her career exploring more about mental health and wellbeing that would see her write a bestseller -Solo: How To Work Alone (And Not Lose Your Mind) - followed by her latest book Be Bad, Better: How Not Trying So Hard Will Set You Free. 

This conversation covers that whole journey, with ideas and insight from Rebecca for those that are working solo, plus a dive into some of the topics from Be Bad, Better, including patriarchy, late-stage capitalism, the beauty industry and consumerism, how those are impacting are lives, and how understanding them and letting them go can really set us free. 

It's both hard and hopeful, and it all comes from Rebecca's unique and brilliant brain in a way that manages to be fully relatable. I think there's so much to take from this one. 

Find Rebecca's website here. 

Find Rebecca on Instagram here.

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. 

Or you can subscribe to my Substack here. 

If you'd like to find out about sponsoring any episodes of Women's Business please get in touch here. 

Finally... please rate and review the episode if you love it and want to hear more, and subscribe so you don't miss future episodes.

Genevieve Sweeney is a designer and founder of a self-titled knitwear brand, who shares her journey into the fashion world with me, from working with big brands - both high street and designer - to founding her own business, where she prides herself on her commitment to slow fashion, British manufacturing and sustainable design. 

Genevieve was influenced early on by her grandfather's craftsmanship, and her passion for knitting started in childhood, and I love this episode because Genevieve is a gentle and considered woman, who shows that anyone can build a brand with purpose if they have the desire and drive. 

The discussion also delves into the personal challenges of balancing motherhood and entrepreneurship, as well as Genevieve's aspirations for the future of her business.

Find Genevieve's website here

And find the brand on Instagram here 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here 

My community doors are now closed but you can join the waitlist for the next intake here. 

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Thank you so much to Tapd for supporting this episode.   

Tapd is an EFT Practice run Denise Hanrahan.  

More commonly known as Tapping, EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Technique and is an amazing way to lower everyones favourite stress hormone - cortisol. 

It is also brilliant for dealing with anxiety, grief, panic attacks, even creative blocks. It could be the somatic practice you need to get yourself 'unstuck' 

For more info, check out tapd.co, that's T A P D . Co  or DM Denise on insta here. 

Listeners will also benefit from a 20% discount on any one to one session. Use code 'business' when booking. 

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Episode highlights:

Anna Marthur a psychotherapist, author, podcaster and and mum of three, and in this episode Anna takes me on her journey from early entrepreneurial pursuits to her career in psychotherapy, and building her personal brand online, which started entirely by accident. 

Anna shares real truths on the difficulty of monetising the work that she started on Instagram for free, as well as offering insights on managing anxiety, the importance of accepting support, and overcoming perfectionism, and we also delve into themes from Anna's latest book, 'The Uncomfortable Truth,' on confronting life's greatest fears, including failure, not being liked, and death. Anna offers practical advice for mums and her warmth comes through in spades. So much to take away from this conversation. 

Find Anna's website here.

Find Anna on Instagram here. 

Don't forget to join the conversation with me on Instagram here. 

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Thank you so much to Tapd for supporting this episode.  

Tapd is an EFT Practice run Denise Hanrahan.  

More commonly known as Tapping, EFT stands for Emotional Freedom Technique and is an amazing way to lower everyones favourite stress hormone - cortisol.

It is also brilliant for dealing with anxiety, grief, panic attacks, even creative blocks. It could be the somatic practice you need to get yourself 'unstuck'.

For more info, check out tapd.co, or DM Denise on insta here. 
Listeners will also benefit from a 20% discount on any one to one session. Use code 'business' when booking. 

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Episode Highlights