The Midlife Entrepreneur is the podcast for women who are building businesses later in life. Hosted by Jo Glynn-Smith, career transitions expert, coach and entrepreneur, who works with founders every day, each week Jo sits down with a different business owner to unpack the real stories, turning points and hard-won lessons behind their ventures.
The show also features the 15 Minute Masterclass, where seasoned experts share practical advice designed to help entrepreneurs at every stage. Honest, inspiring and genuinely useful, this is the show that proves it is never too late to back yourself.
Top 15% of podcasts globally and charting on Apple's Entrepreneurship category. New episodes every Tuesday.
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EP23: Sophie Fawcett, Brand Strategist, Cancer Survivor, and Founder of TONIC, pioneering medical apparel.
Tuesday, November 4, 2025 • Duration 50:25
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, host Jo welcomes Sophie Fawcett, a brand strategist, cancer survivor, and the founder of TONIC, pioneering medical apparel. Sophie shares her inspiring journey from shaping major UK fashion brands, to founding TONIC after experiencing the inadequacies of traditional hospital wear through her own shoulder surgery. With sustainability and thoughtful design at its core, TONIC aims to provide dignity and empathy to patients during their most vulnerable times. Sophie discusses how her personal battle with Hodgkin's Lymphoma solidified her mission, transforming her from a founder into a user of her own innovative garments in chemotherapy wards. Listen as she delves into the creation process, the challenges faced, and her future aspirations for TONIC, truly making health and recovery more humane through stylish, functional medical wear.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:15 Meet Sophie Fawcett: Brand Strategist and Cancer Survivor
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
EP22: Carol Lovell, Adventurer and Founder of Stow London, the luxury handbag and accessories brand.
Tuesday, October 21, 2025 • Duration 50:02
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo talks to Carol Lovell, the adventurous founder of Stow London, a luxury handbag and accessories brand known for its British design and Spanish craftsmanship.
Carol shares her inspiring journey from launching Stow in 2013, navigating the rapid growth, handling personal and business challenges, to making the bold decision to step back in 2022 due to health concerns. She discusses how she sold the business to her manufacturing partner Adam but remains involved as a partner and strategist.
The episode touches on the relief and challenges that came with stepping back, managing decisions made by others, and finding a better life balance. Carol also discusses the strategic partnership with Tanner Leatherstein, a TikTok sensation and now Director of Craftsmanship at Stow. The conversation delves into the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic and how it pressured her to re-evaluate her priorities. Carol concludes with reflections on maintaining excitement in her role and embracing new adventures. The episode wraps up with Carol’s list of three investments worth every penny, two things she wishes she had done differently, and one person she’d like to thank.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:15 Meet Carol Lovell: Founder of Stow London
00:33 The Journey of Stow London
01:02 Challenges and Triumphs
01:39 Selling the Business and Stepping Back
02:57 Adjusting to a New Role
05:22 Health and Well-being
07:15 The Decision to Sell or Close
07:57 A New Beginning with Adam
09:27 Tanner Leatherstein's Influence
14:19 The Early Days of Stow
17:11 Building the Business
25:38 The Meghan Markle Effect
EP13: Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey, Journalist, Stylist and Founder of The FairGround, a digital marketplace for purpose-led brands
Tuesday, June 17, 2025 • Duration 47:14
In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo welcomes Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey, stylist, journalist, and founder of The FairGround, a digital marketplace for purpose-led brands. Ginnie discusses her transition from British Vogue to entrepreneurship, her dedication to promoting sustainable shopping, and the challenges and rewards of launching The FairGround. The conversation covers topics such as the realities of building a business, balancing family life, and the importance of women supporting each other in the entrepreneurial space. Ginnie also shares valuable insights from her journey, including the power of fitness, the importance of friendship and mentorship, and her fearless approach to business risks.
00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:14 Introducing Ginnie Chadwyck-Healey
00:27 Ginnie's Journey to Entrepreneurship
00:53 The Birth of The FairGround
01:52 Challenges and Insights of Running a Business
03:17 Balancing Family and Business
03:51 The FairGround's Unique Selling Proposition
05:01 Subscription Model and Brand Assessment
09:54 Marketing and Outreach Strategies
11:17 Personal Reflections and Future Goals
13:04 The Reality of Midlife Entrepreneurship
19:46 Team Dynamics and Support
23:07 Overcoming Personal and Professional Challenges
25:15 The Journey of Empathy and Boundaries
26:02 Building a Community and Brand
28:02 The Importance of Supporting Women
29:20 Balancing Personal and Professional Life
33:49 Investments and Lessons Learned
EP12: Anna Foster, Creative Director & Founder of E.L.V. Denim, a global leader in sustainable fashion
Tuesday, June 3, 2025 • Duration 50:40
In this episode Jo interviews Anna Foster, the founder and creative director of E.L.V. Denim, an innovative up-cycling fashion brand. Anna shares her journey from a 20-year career as a fashion editor to creating a brand that challenges the norms of overconsumption in fashion. She discusses the pivotal moments that led her to question the industry and her role in it, the challenges and breakthroughs in up-cycling denim, and the emotional connections to her work.
Anna also touches on the importance of her team, maintaining sustainability, and her determination to push through obstacles. This episode is a rich exploration of resilience, creativity, and the passion that drives sustainable business.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:16 Meet Anna Foster: From Fashion Editor to Upcycling Pioneer
01:42 Anna's Journey: Questioning the Fashion Industry
03:51 The Turning Point: From Stylist to Sustainable Fashion
05:35 Challenges and Realizations in Upcycling
07:08 Building E.L.V. Denim: The Early Days
08:31 The Denim Industry's Waste Problem
10:20 Creating Unique, Sustainable Fashion
18:08 The Emotional Connection to Upcycling
25:50 Scaling Up: The Future of E.L.V. Denim
29:20 The Power of Intuition and Mentorship
29:45 British Fashion Council's Low Carbon Transition
30:03 Lessons from the Past: Railways and Resistance
31:30 Innovative Approaches in Fashion
32:36 The Importance of Diversifying Partnerships
33:39 Overcoming Challenges and Finding Solutions
35:03 Sustainable Fashion: The Stretch Denim Dilemma
36:37 Building Resilience and Problem-Solving Skills
EP11: Julia Collins, Vintage Art Dealer, Founder of Collins and Green Art
Tuesday, May 20, 2025 • Duration 42:25
In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo interviews Julia Collins, founder of Collins and Green Art, a vintage art gallery based in West London.
Julia shares her journey of transitioning from a 15-year career in finance to pursuing her passion for art after a 20-year sabbatical to raise her family.
After her children left for university, Julia started Collins and Green Art, which has grown into a thriving business. She talks about the challenges and rewards of starting a business later in life, the importance of having a supportive team, and leveraging social media for business growth. Julia also offers advice to fellow midlife entrepreneurs and emphasises the importance of following one's passion.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:34 Julia Collins' Journey from Finance to Art
01:14 The Birth of Collins and Green Art
02:05 Balancing Family and Business
03:54 Navigating Instagram and Online Sales
06:14 Challenges and Triumphs in Business
15:02 Building a Community and Networking
18:44 Overcoming Technological Hurdles
22:33 Reflecting on Business Chaos and Team Dynamics
22:53 Hiring and Motivating the Team
23:23 Defining Success and Business Growth
23:59 Marketing Strategies: Word of Mouth and Instagram
25:51 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Passion
31:05 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship
32:53 Challenges and Progress for Women in Business
36:38 Three Investments, Two Regrets, One Thank You
41:34 Final Thoughts and Encouragement
Julia's 3,2,1s:
EP10: Lucy Yeomans, Fashion Tech Entrepreneur, Founder and Co-CEO of Drest
Thursday, May 8, 2025 • Duration 51:33
To kick off the second season of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo welcomes Lucy Yeomans, founder and co-CEO of Drest, the innovative fashion styling app that’s transforming the way we interact with luxury fashion through gaming and technology.
They discuss her remarkable career and the innovative fashion styling app that's merging luxury fashion with gamification. From her transformative role as the editor-in-chief at Harper's Bazaar and Net-a-Porter to launching Drest in 2019, Lucy has continually reinvented herself and stayed ahead of industry shifts.
Lucy shares the lightbulb moments that led to the creation of Drest, the challenges of navigating the tech and gaming worlds, and the importance of personal well-being in entrepreneurial success. The episode also delves into Lucy's approach to building a supportive team, leveraging the fusion of real and virtual experiences, and the ultimate goal of making luxury fashion accessible to everyone.
00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:14 Introducing Lucy Yeomans and Drest
00:27 Lucy's Career Journey and Vision
00:42 The Birth of Drest
00:54 Challenges and Collaborations
01:01 The Evolution of Drest
01:33 In-Depth with Lucy Yeomans
01:38 What is Drest?
02:34 The Lightbulb Moments
02:46 The Gaming Inspiration
03:14 From Harper's Bazaar to Net-a-Porter
03:39 The Changing Media Landscape
04:09 The Rise of Gaming
07:52 The Drest Audience
10:24 Building Drest from Scratch
10:39 The Reluctant Entrepreneur
11:58 The Importance of the Right Team
EP9: Jo Glynn-Smith wraps up Season 1 with reflections on what she’s learned and the standout insights from her guests.
Tuesday, April 15, 2025 • Duration 16:38
Reflecting on The First Season of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
Jo wraps up the inaugural season of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast by sharing heartfelt thoughts and insights from the show. She emphasises the importance of honesty, integrity, and authenticity and thanks her guests for sharing their journeys.
She discusses the purpose of her podcast: to inspire and motivate midlife individuals to pursue their business aspirations, whatever their age. Key takeaways include the necessity of having the right support team, the importance of self-care for maintaining energy and focus, and the value of continuous learning, especially in technology and marketing.
The episode also highlights Jo's personal journey from a corporate career to becoming a business owner, noting the challenges and rewards she has encountered along the way. Jo announces her intentions for season two, and invites listeners to contribute their stories or recommendations for future guests.
Closing remarks include a heartfelt thanks to supporters and a call to action for reviews.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change. Instagram and @themidlifeentrepreneur
EP8: Claire van Bekkum, Communications Specialist and Co-Owner of Monuskin
Tuesday, April 8, 2025 • Duration 47:56
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo interviews Claire van Bekkum, co-owner of Monuskin, a UK-based skincare brand. Claire shares her journey from a successful 20-year publishing career to becoming a midlife entrepreneur alongside her husband Laurent. She discusses how they redefined the Monuskin brand, redesigned the packaging, and launched innovative skincare lines. Claire also delves into the dynamics of working with her husband, the challenges of pivoting careers, and the crucial lessons she's learned about communication, confidence, and entrepreneurship. The conversation is filled with insights and advice for midlife entrepreneurs looking to embark on a similar journey.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:15 Meet Claire van Bekkum: From Publishing to Skincare
00:57 Redefining Monuskin: A New Chapter
01:45 Claire's Role and Responsibilities
02:42 Transitioning from Publishing to Skincare
04:39 Learning and Growing in a New Industry
08:31 The Evolution of Monuskin
18:17 Balancing Work and Personal Life
22:08 Lessons Learned and Future Goals
25:54 Behind the Scenes: The Challenges of Production
26:51 Embracing Technology in Midlife Entrepreneurship
28:02 The Power of Gratitude and Continuous Learning
29:16 Facing Fears and Building Confidence
30:09 The Importance of Partnership in Business
30:43 Reflecting on Career and Personal Life
34:19 Investments and Lessons Learned
43:34 Acknowledging Influential Mentors
47:08 Final Thoughts and Farewell
Claire’s 3,2,1s:
EP7: Gabby O'Connor, Essential Oils Expert and Founder of Iris Organics
Tuesday, March 25, 2025 • Duration 47:30
In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo talks to Gabby O'Connor, Founder of Iris Organics, an independent organic candle and diffuser business.
Gabby shares her journey from an HR and recruitment career in London to motherhood in Buckinghamshire, where she developed her passion for alternative medicines and essential oils into a thriving business. She speaks candidly about the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, the importance of using natural products, and how she leverages social media and community connections to grow her business. Gabby also emphasises the significance of supporting small, female-led businesses and offers advice to those considering starting their own ventures.
Key highlight moments include a feature by ITV's beauty editor, Sarah Jossel and collaborations with influencers.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
00:37 Gabby's Journey from HR to Iris Organics
01:48 Discovering the Power of Alternative Medicines
04:25 The Birth of Iris Organics
08:32 Balancing Business and Family Life
12:27 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Small Business
15:52 The Importance of Technology and Learning New Skills
22:08 The Realities of Being a Midlife Entrepreneur
25:55 Pinch Me Moments: Reflecting on Success
26:09 The Journey to Unique Branding
26:55 Overcoming Business Challenges
28:01 The Power of Asking and Networking
28:59 Celebrity Endorsements and Media Highlights
32:47 Outsourcing and Business Growth
33:36 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs
34:47 The Importance of Passion and Balance
EP6: Abigail Wilmore, HR Specialist, CEO and Founder of People Flow
Tuesday, March 11, 2025 • Duration 47:11
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo Glynn-Smith interviews Abigail Wilmore, a prominent HR leader, CEO and founder of People Flow. Abigail shares her career journey from starting at the shop floor to becoming a Chief People Officer at top fashion brands like Tom Ford and Stella McCartney. She discusses the inspiration behind her career shift to HR, the challenges she faced, and her dedication to heart-centered leadership. Abigail also delves into her healing journey over the past 15 years and how it has shaped her approach to leadership. Furthermore, she reveals how the pandemic led her to found People Flow, a community designed to support HR professionals by providing a space to discuss workplace challenges and mental health issues. This insightful conversation is filled with valuable advice for midlife entrepreneurs and HR professionals alike.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast
01:20 Abigail Wilmore's Career Journey
02:37 Discovering a Passion for HR
03:47 Climbing the Corporate Ladder
10:47 The Birth of People Flow
14:57 Challenges in HR and the Importance of Community
20:28 Future Plans and Personal Healing Journey
28:27 Heart-Centered Purpose in PeopleFlow
29:39 The Gradual Process of Finding Purpose
30:59 Gender Dynamics in HR
33:06 Challenges of Running a Business
37:25 The Power of Community and Networking
40:27 Three, Two, Ones: Final Advice and Reflections
46:13 Conclusion and Farewell
Abigail's 3,2,1s
3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny:
1. Investing in my own healing and making sure I've got money to put to that.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny:
1. My website, it was designed by Catherine Elphick at Elphick & Co.
2. My team, the gallery assistants, framer, accountant.
3. Comp cards - a business and notecard in one
2 things you wished you'd done differently:
1. Started earlier but in a small way so that I could have built it slowly over time.
2. Set up the business with a partner - too late now, but I would have liked to work with someone who's skills could have complimented mine.
1 person you'd like to thank:
I'm going to break the 'not a family member' rule and say my mother. She started two businesses in the days where women didn't do that kind of thing, and has always been my inspiration.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny:
1. Good People, it's essential.
2. Time for myself, and investing in my wellbeing.
3. My child's education, it makes me so happy to know that she's somewhere that's looking after her when I have to work away (they have flexi boarding) and where she's really happy.
2 things you wish you could have done differently
1. More due diligence in the tech and gaming space beforehand. It slowed us down.
2. I wish I'd trusted my instinct more.
1 Person you'd like to thank:
My investor, Graham Edwards, for his excitement and belief in the vision.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:
1. Moving to a new factory was a gamechanger for the team and the business.
2. It also motivated us to rethink our website and freshen everything up. We use Emma Provins from Skylight9 Ltd for Meta support. www.skylight9.co.uk
3. Finding our photographer Ria Fletcher, follow her on Instagram @ria.fletcher
2 things you wish you’d done differently:
1. At one stage we had the finance/ business side of things in a swanky office in Cheltenham and everything else at the factory, that was a mistake. Being all under one roof is better all round.
2. I wish I’d met my husband 10 years earlier. I was 46 when we got married.
1 person you’d like to thank:
1. Emma Redmayne, my boss at Conde Nast, I learned a lot from her, especially about self-belief and being proud to sell – whilst enjoying the experience and having fun!
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:
1. Shopify – amazing for analytics and sales info
2. Web developer – Katie contact Gabby for her details
3. Social media training
2 things you wish you could have done differently:
1. Start earlier - but would I have had the confidence? Who knows.
2. I don’t think there was another one – oops, my bad!
1 person you’d like to thank:
Sarah Jossel, beauty journalist and broadcaster for mentioning my candles on This Morning during lockdown. It’s so powerful to have somebody advocating for you.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX For bookings: eightworks@eightclub.co.uk
Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.
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