Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode, Zoe is joined by celebrity private PA Simon Cole for an honest and insightful conversation about life behind the scenes of the entertainment industry. Simon shares his unconventional journey from child actor to supporting high-profile figures, reflecting on what it truly means to deliver an “anything but ordinary” life.

From red carpets and global travel to managing chaos with calm precision, he reveals the reality behind the glamour and the vital role private PAs play as the unseen force keeping extraordinary lives running seamlessly.

The conversation also explores the emotional intelligence required in private service, the importance of boundaries, and the growing conversation around wellbeing and burnout in NDA-heavy roles. Simon speaks candidly about redefining the PA profession, building community through LinkedIn, and why authenticity, confidence, and self-respect are essential for longevity in the role.

It’s a powerful reminder that behind every polished public figure is a trusted professional quietly making the magic happen.

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Zoe Jackson's Links:

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/

https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Simon Cole's Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-cole-345a5036/?originalSubdomain=uk

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode of Anything But Ordinary, Zoe sits down with Jeremy Chandar, Director of Mobility and Relocation at Pinewood Relocations, to explore the highly specialised and deeply human world of UHNW and private family relocations.

Far beyond “moving boxes,” Jeremy shares how his work involves navigating complex international logistics, climate-controlled transportation for art, wine and collections, and the emotional realities that come with helping families uproot their lives. With over 33 years in the industry, he explains how discretion, trust and understanding human behaviour shape every assignment — whether coordinating a cross-border move, managing cultural integration, or solving extraordinary challenges like removing a grand piano through the roof or moving a safe down glass stairs when no crane can reach.

Zoe and Jeremy also discuss why a relocation done poorly can have lasting consequences for families and employers, and why private PAs, estate managers and client-facing professionals need visibility into the full process — from visas and schooling to customs, insurance and emotional support. Jeremy highlights the Pinewood philosophy of “who cares wins,” emphasising that successful relocations rely just as much on empathy as on logistics.

The episode offers a rare look behind the scenes of a sector where privacy is paramount, stakes are high, and the smallest details can profoundly shape a client’s experience.

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Zoe Jackson's Links:

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/

https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Jeremy Chandar's Links:

https://pinewoodrelocations.com/

linkedin.com/in/jeremy-chandar-270a348

https://www.linkedin.com/company/pinewood-relocations-limited/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode, Zoe sits down with Angharad Jones, founder of Harrad & Bloom, to explore the art of creating truly lived-in luxury experiences.

Ang shares how her background working on luxury French barges and Alpine chalets shaped her instincts for hospitality, eventually inspiring her to launch Harrad & Bloom in the Cotswolds. What began as single-property summer residencies evolved into a high-touch concierge service for UHNW families, global brands, and guests craving thoughtful, personal experiences that feel effortless.

From last-minute client requests to the intimacy of working inside private homes, Ang offers a candid look at what real luxury looks like behind the scenes.

Zoe and Ang discuss the unexpected realities of serving high-profile clients, the role of intuition, the essential relationships with PAs and household teams, and the importance of authenticity in an industry that can often feel superficial.

Ang reflects on building a brand rooted in genuine warmth and responsiveness, the strange and wonderful moments that come with her work and the instinct-led approach guiding Harrad & Bloom as it aims to expands across the UK and Europe.

The conversation is equal parts inspiring and grounded, offering an honest portrait of what it takes to build a business defined by care, discretion, and exceptional service.

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Zoe Jackson's Links:

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/

https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Angharad Jones' Links:

https://www.harradandbloom.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/angharad-jones-918179156/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/harradandbloom/

https://www.instagram.com/harradandbloom/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode, Zoe speaks with Philippa Smith, founder of Silver Swan Recruitment, for a deep dive into the extraordinary world of private staffing and the realities of building a luxury recruitment brand.

Philippa’s journey into recruitment began unexpectedly after a ski season, but it quickly became a career defined by resilience, reinvention, and an unwavering commitment to service.

Today, she leads one of the sector’s most recognisable agencies, known for placing exceptional talent in households and estates around the world.

Zoe and Philippa explore what makes private staffing so unique, the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry, and the mindset required to build a trusted recruitment business.

Philippa opens up about running out of money after losing a huge client and how it forced her to restructure for the better, as well as the importance of surrounding yourself with people you trust.

They also discuss industry-wide themes from the power of collaboration to the rise of deposits in recruitment, the evolving role of AI, and why personal branding matters more than ever.

This conversation is full of practical insights for agency owners, recruiters, and anyone curious about the unseen world of private staffing.

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Zoe Jackson's Links:

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com

https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/shire-wold-academy/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/shire-wold-domestic-staffing/

https://www.instagram.com/shireandwoldstaffing?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

https://www.instagram.com/anythingbutordinary_pod?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==

Philippa Smith's Links:

https://silverswanrecruitment.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippa-smith-4642b437/

https://www.linkedin.com/company/silver-swan-recruitment/

https://www.instagram.com/silverswanrecruitment/

https://www.instagram.com/silverswanpodcast/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode of Anything But Ordinary, host Zoe Jackson speaks with Sharon Pursey OBE, one of the founders of SafeToNet Ltd and The SafeToNet Foundation.

Sharon is an award-winning entrepreneur with over 13 years of experience running her own business, a strong background in the travel industry selling complex IT solutions to enterprise clients, and a deep passion for child online safety. Her work has been recognised with the Women in Business – Rising Star award, a nomination for Woman in IT Awards – Woman of the Year, and in 2020 she was honoured with an OBE in the New Year’s Honours list.

Sharon shares the story behind SafeToNet’s mission, the evolution of online safety technology, and the launch of their innovative product Harm Block — designed to prevent harmful imagery from being created by children.

She talks about the challenges of keeping young people safe online, the role of partnerships and the importance of making child-protection technology both effective and privacy-preserving.

This is a compelling conversation about innovation, resilience, and purpose, from the lessons learned through business setbacks to the power of networking and building relationships to create meaningful change.

To find out more head to the below links:

Zoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-jackson-2b2b8038/

Shire & Wold: https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/

Sharon Pursey OBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharon-pursey-obe-23344311/

SafeToNet: https://safetonetfoundation.org/

Register your interest for the phone launching on 20th August: https://harmblock.com/notify

Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harm.block/

Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/10468127

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this powerful episode of Anything But Ordinary, host Zoe sits down with Tessa Clarke, co-founder of the OLIO app, the revolutionary platform helping neighbours share surplus food and tackle the growing problem of global food waste.

From growing up as a farmer’s daughter to launching a game-changing sustainability startup, Tessa shares her inspiring journey, the environmental impact of food waste, and how simple, everyday actions can lead to massive change.

Key Takeaways:

• How OLIO works to connect communities and reduce waste
• The shocking truth: 1/3 of all food produced is wasted
• Easy ways YOU can start cutting food waste at home
• Why understanding food labels matters more than you think
• The challenges and wins of the entrepreneurial journey
• Why building a purpose-driven community is key to long-term success
• What’s next for OLIO and its mission to go global

Whether you're passionate about the planet, launching a startup, or just want to waste less — this episode is packed with insights and practical tips.

To find out more or to connect with Zoe and Tessa, head to the below links:

Zoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-jackson-2b2b8038/

Shire & Wold: https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/

Tessa: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessaclarkeolio/

Olio: https://olioapp.com/en/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

This week, Zoe is joined by James Urquhart, founder of Rupert — the automated 24/7 social media assistant helping businesses stay on top of every comment, message, and opportunity.

In this episode, they dive into:

- The real challenges businesses face with social media management

- How AI like Rupert is transforming customer engagement and marketing

- Why knowing your numbers is key to growing your brand

- The power of authenticity in a world of algorithms

- And how instant responses can turn comments into conversions

James shares the story behind Rupert, how it supports brands with round-the-clock monitoring, and why customer feedback is one of your most valuable business tools.

If you're a founder, marketer, or entrepreneur looking to level up your social presence — this one's for you.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more anything but ordianry conversations!

To find out more about Zoe or James, head to the below links:

Zoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-jackson-2b2b8038/

Shire & Wold: https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/

James: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-a-urquhart

Rupert: https://rupert.digital/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this powerful episode, host Zoe Jackson is joined by sex and relationship therapist Carla Crivaro, for a candid conversation exploring the deep links between sexuality, personal growth, and professional success.

From traditional roots to bold authenticity, Carla shares her journey of becoming a sex therapist, opening up about:

- Embracing non-monogamy and redefining relationship norms

- How shame can hold us back — in both the bedroom and the boardroom

- The evolving role of masculinity and emotional intelligence in modern relationships

- Sexual performance anxiety and the orgasm gap

- Why many women struggle to express their needs — and how to change that

- The importance of self-pleasure, communication, and body literacy

- How sexual confidence can fuel leadership and success in business

This episode invites you to reflect on your own emotional and sexual growth, unpack cultural taboos, and consider how being authentic — in all areas of life — leads to deeper connections and greater fulfilment.

Key Takeaways:

- Success looks different for everyone

- Shame limits growth, but acknowledging it builds power

- Emotional intelligence is key to great leadership

- Authenticity in relationships and work = stronger connections

- Pleasure and self-compassion are essential tools for growth

- We need better sex ed — for kids and adults alike

If you’re ready to ditch shame, embrace your true self, and explore the connection between pleasure, purpose, and power — this one’s not to be missed.

To find out more head to the below links:

Carla Crivaro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carla-crivaro-coach-facilitator/

Zoe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zoe-jackson-2b2b8038/

Shire & Wold Staffing: https://shireandwoldstaffing.com/

We really hope you enjoy the episode, and don't forget to hit the subscribe button!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode, Zoe interviews Lee Mullins, co-founder of Workshop Gymnasium, about his remarkable journey from personal trainer to global fitness entrepreneur.

Lee shares how his partnership with Hany Farsi led to the creation of a luxury fitness brand, starting with a residency at the prestigious Bvlgari Hotel in London.

The conversation explores the challenges of scaling a global fitness business, the role of technology in personalising fitness programs, and the importance of a holistic approach to health. Lee offers valuable insights into building a brand within the hospitality industry, balancing personal fitness with professional demands, and the untapped potential of hotel gyms. He also reflects on the power of partnerships, the significance of family support, and the future expansion of Workshop Gymnasium into consultancy and product offerings.

To find out more head to the below links:

Lee Mullins

Instagram

LinkedIn

Zoe Jackson

Instagram

LinkedIn

Shire & Wold Staffing

We really hope you enjoy the episode, and don't forget to hit the subscribe button!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to Anything But Ordinary

In this episode, Zoe interviews Victoria, the founder of Stanton Miller, a recruitment agency that emphasises relationship-building over sales-driven tactics.

Victoria shares her journey from feeling lost in her early career to becoming a successful entrepreneur. She discusses the importance of collaboration in recruitment, the power of networking, and the need for genuine care in client and candidate relationships.

The conversation highlights the evolution of Victoria's career, her entrepreneurial spirit, and her commitment to creating a positive experience for everyone involved in the recruitment process.

In this conversation, Victoria shares her journey through the challenges of running a recruitment business while navigating personal hardships, including the loss of her husband and the struggles of IVF. She emphasises the importance of open communication, resilience, and redefining success beyond financial gain.

The discussion highlights the significance of relationships, both in business and personal life, and the strength found in vulnerability and authenticity.

If you want to find out more about Victoria or host Zoe, please head to the below links:

Victoria Miller

LinkedIn

Instagram

Zoe Jackson

Instagram

LinkedIn

Shire & Wold Staffing

We really hope you enjoy the episode, and don't forget to hit the subscribe button!

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.