Between The Bells - Growing A Business In School Hours – Details, episodes & analysis

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In this episode of Between the Bells, I chat with Ruth Stone, a dynamic entrepreneur who splits her time between the worlds of PR and fitness. 

Ruth shares her brilliantly honest journey of juggling two careers while raising a family, organising large events, and keeping her sanity intact. We talk about the power of conversations, the surprising efficiency of Google Forms, and why every single interaction could lead to unexpected opportunities. 

Ruth also gives us a unique homework challenge that might just change how you value your time. A funny, insightful, and practical episode full of energy and real-life wisdom.

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this episode of Between the Bells, I’m joined by my longtime team member and friend Caroline Saunders. 

Caroline shares her honest and relatable journey from big-brand marketing in the corporate world to building a thriving freelance PR and marketing business around school hours. 

We talk about juggling house moves, raising two boys, winning awards, and why flexibility has always been her north star. Caroline opens up about the confidence it takes to work on your terms and the tools that help her stay on top of things

A grounded, inspiring listen for anyone growing a business their own way.

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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Welcome to the very first episode of Between The Bells – the podcast for ambitious entrepreneurs building brilliant businesses that fit around family life. I’m your host, Rebecca Newenham: founder of Get Ahead, franchise consultant, business mentor and proud mum of three.

In this debut episode, I’m joined by the fabulous Mel Booth and Klara Akerstrom – co-founders of the award-winning Marketing Lab. These two inspiring women met at the school gates and turned a shared desire for flexible work into a thriving agency. Ten years on, they’re still going strong – and loving every minute of it.

We dive into: 

✨ The honest story of how their business began
✨ What makes their partnership work (and why it’s not always for everyone)
✨ Adapting a business model as your children grow
✨ Their favourite tools for staying organised and connected
✨ Brilliant marketing advice to help you stand out and attract the right clients
✨ The all-important reminder not to compare your journey to anyone else's

Bell Ringing Takeaway: Mel’s advice on tuning out comparison and staying focused on your goals is a must-listen for anyone in the early stages of business.

Mel’s Homework Assignment: Take a fresh look at your messaging. Is it clear what you do, who you help, and how people can work with you? And does your personality shine through?

🛎️ Between The Bells Quickfire Round

You’ll also hear Klara’s morning routine, her productivity tip for staying focused, and why a good to-do list can make or break your day.

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this inspiring episode of Between the Bells, I’m joined by Heidi Snelgrove, founder of creative production company We Love Images. 

Heidi shares her journey from high-end agency work to building a business around motherhood, creativity, and a love for real stories. 

We explore how she landed a major client straight out of the gate, why she’s prioritising brave moves this year, and how breathwork has become a daily reset that keeps her grounded. 

She recommends the Breathpod app for anyone wanting to explore breath-led wellbeing. It’s an honest, energising listen full of practical ideas and personal insight.

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this episode of Between the Bells, I’m joined by the brilliant Emma Tarring – marketing strategist, corporate escapee, and co-founder of The Corporate Escape Club. 

Emma shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to running a flexible, purpose-led business that fits around family and real life. We talk about the power of keeping your offer simple, choosing clients who make you smile, and building a business that grows with you. 

Emma also shares top tips on tools she swears by, and her advice for anyone just starting out. This one’s packed with calm wisdom and practical gold.

🎧 Tune in and let us know what resonates!

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this episode of Between the Bells, I'm joined by the brilliant Vicki Moore, founder of It's All About the Wrapper. 

Vicki shares her inspiring journey from corporate life to building a thriving branded chocolate business, all while raising her young family. 

We talk about the importance of networking, keeping business simple, and nurturing existing clients. 

Vicki also shares a creative, actionable homework assignment you’ll want to start right away!

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this inspiring episode of Between the Bells, Rebecca is joined by Elizabeth Willetts, founder of Investing in Women and passionate advocate for flexible working. 

Elizabeth shares her powerful story of launching a business during the pandemic, building a thriving community, writing her book Flex, and championing flexible careers for women. 

Packed with actionable tips on taking consistent action, automating your business, and staying focused on your goals, this episode is a must-listen for any entrepreneur growing a business between the school bells.

Useful links for Elizabeth :

Connect with Liz on LinkedIn

Visit her Website

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this inspiring episode, Rebecca chats with Emily Gibson, founder of The HR Patch, about building a thriving HR consultancy while raising young children. 

Emily shares how an unexpected accident gave her the time and space to properly launch her business, why staying rooted in your why is crucial, and how to avoid getting lost in comparison. 

From her trusty to-do lists to her high-street office move, Emily opens up about the challenges, lessons, and joys of flexible entrepreneurship. 

A must-listen for anyone balancing ambition with everyday life.

Connect with Emily: 

🌐 thehrpatch.co.uk
🔗 LinkedIn

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this episode of Between the Bells, I’m joined by career change coach Dana Stevens – and what a powerful conversation we had.

Dana shares her story of moving from a high-pressure role in the advertising industry to creating a business that works for her, not the other way around. We talk about the tipping point that made her say, “That’s it – I’m done,” how she started her coaching business while still working part-time, and why finding community was the biggest game-changer for her confidence and growth.

Dana also offers brilliant insights on managing mindset, staying motivated during tough patches, and the difference between celebrating your wins and actually feeling proud. Her homework assignment – “Be Your Best Boss” – is something every business owner needs to hear.

🔗 Connect with Dana:
 Website: danastevenscoaching.com
Instagram: dana_stevens_coach

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com

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In this episode of Between The Bells, I’m joined by copywriter and workshop leader Laura Sands. After leaving a corporate marketing role in search of flexibility and challenge, Laura built a thriving freelance business that now includes copywriting, AI-integrated content training, and practical workshops.

We chat about:

✍️ How Laura went from blogging on maternity leave to full-time freelance copywriting

🧠 Why she believes good writing starts with knowing what good looks like
 
🧰 The power of breaking writing into three steps: planning, drafting, editing
 
💬 How to apply the “Rule of One” to keep your copy clear, focused and effective

💡 Tips on navigating AI tools with confidence, not fear
 
☕ Creating a calm and intentional morning routine (dressing gown included!)

Bell Ringing Takeaway: Your health is your business. Laura’s reminder to look after the basics - movement, rest, nutrition, and support - is vital for long-term success.

School Drop-Off Shoutout: No school run these days - just one good coffee, a stroll in the garden, and a fresh mindset to start the day right.

Homework Assignment: Apply Laura’s “Rule of One” to your next piece of writing - one reader, one message, one focus. Simplicity is the secret to copy that connects.

Connect with Laura Sands:
🌐 Website: laurasands.co.uk
🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lauralsands
📸 Instagram: @laurawritescontent

🎙️ Edited with precision by podcast editing master, Mike Roberts of Making Digital Real

⏺️ Got feedback, a question, or want to be on the show? Leave me a voice message by CLICKING HERE – we might even feature it in a future episode!

✨ Subscribe, follow, and share with anyone who’s growing their business between the bells.

🔗 Connect with Rebecca on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rebeccanewenham
🌐 Learn more about Get Ahead: getaheadva.com