
Jeanette Aurdal

Founder of The Oak & Rope Company

On finding success being who you were always meant to be 



Want to know how Jeanette Aurdal made the transition from being a passionate hobbyist to building a thriving brand, celebrated for its handcrafted creations? Jeanette shares how a fire that reduced her business to ashes was both her darkest moment and greatest springboard — helping her evolve into exactly who she was meant to be.



WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE


Find out how sometimes, in the process of building and rebuilding, you are able to become your true self 
Learn how life’s greatest challenges can provide a fresh foundation from which opportunity can blossom
Jeanette’s story is a beacon of light for any founders (or potential founders) on a small business journey 

If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Sophie Sellu, founder of Grain & Knot.



Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business finds and inspiration, nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus exclusive offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice.

Jeanette Aurdal on finding success being who you were always meant to be

Conversations of Inspiration brings you life changing wisdom along with heartbreaking stories of resilience, tenacity and triumph. Since launching two small business marketplaces (Holly & Co and notonthehighstreet), Holly Tucker MBE has spoken with more than 175 founders, creatives and entrepreneurs on this podcast who have been vulnerable enough to share what it really took to get them where they are today, with warmth and wisdom. Prepare to be inspired.

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How can you use customer data to create brand loyalty? 



In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Edwina Dunn OBE, a true trailblazer in both the realms of big data and female empowerment.



Immersed in the world of tech and data since the early 80’s, a time when customers' data was often discarded, Edwina’s vision led to creation of the groundbreaking Tesco Clubcard,  turning the retail industry on its head and forever changing the way in which brands connect with their customers.



Edwina shares insights into her journey through the evolving tech and data landscape and how her passion for empowering women has shaped her career and led her to founding the non-profit organisation The Female Lead.



A conversation not to be missed and one that recognises innovation and a mission to unlock women’s potential to transform business, economies and communities.



Win an Independent Ad Break on Conversations of Inspiration: If you’re a founder yourself and would like to be in with a chance to win your own ad break on this podcast, head over to holly.co/dell.  This competition is delivered in partnership with Dell Technologies and their programs Dell for Startups and DWEN (Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network) — which provide startup expertise from dedicated technology advisors and scalable solutions to ensure your business is always ready to grow.



Time Stamps:



Role Models and Leadership (00:09:06) The importance of visible role models and Dunn's campaign, "The Female Lead," to make women shaping the world visible.



Power of Two in Business (00:27:43) Dunn highlights the importance of working with a partner, the strength of two opposites, and the success of their business.



Impact of Data Science on Business (00:17:00) Dunn explains the role of data science in predicting consumer behaviour and its impact on business strategy.



Encouraging Women in Data Science (00:45:35) Encouraging women to pursue data science due to their natural strength and proficiency in the field.



Customer Loyalty and Understanding (00:47:31) Importance of understanding customer behaviour and lifestyle for creating loyalty beyond transactions.



Empowering Women in Business (00:52:13) Highlighting the importance of women's role in decision-making and purchasing power.



The Invisible Pound (00:55:07) Discussion on women's significant buying decisions and the lack of recognition for the female purchasing power.



Women's Voices and Representation (00:59:45) The significance of representing and amplifying women's voices in leadership and government.



Women in History and Economic Growth (01:02:53) The importance of acknowledging women's historical contributions and the potential for economic growth through understanding women better.

S20 Ep4: Edwina Dunn OBE, Data Scientist Pioneer and founder of The Female Lead campaign on Pioneering Big Data and Empowering Women

Can the shadow of death truly teach us the value of life? 



In this soul-stirring and life-affirming episode journalist, author, and podcast host Clover Stroud shares her journey through loss, creativity, and the transformative power of love and bravery, offering you a deeply personal and universally resonant perspective on living a life full of contrasts and redemption.



From the beauty and challenges of aging, the concept of home and belonging, to the depths of grief and the resilience of the human spirit this episode is about what it is to be human.  



Win an Independent Ad Break on Conversations of Inspiration: If you’re a founder yourself and would like to be in with a chance to win your own ad break on this podcast, head over to holly.co/dell.  This competition is delivered in partnership with Dell Technologies and their programs Dell for Startups and DWEN (Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network) — which provide startup expertise from dedicated technology advisors and scalable solutions to ensure your business is always ready to grow.



Time Stamps: 



Reflecting on the impact of personal experiences and anxieties (00:13:29) The conversation delves into the anxieties of the present day and the impact of personal experiences on shaping perspectives.



The influence of maternal love and nurturing on raising strong, creative women (00:16:48) The discussion explores the role of maternal love and nurturing in raising strong, creative women, focusing on Clover's family.



The impact of personal tragedy and the quest to understand human emotions (00:19:59) Clover reflects on the profound impact of personal tragedy and her ongoing quest to understand human emotions through her writing.



Bravery and self-discovery (00:23:22) Clover reflects on her early 20s, living in Texas, and seeking physical challenges, indicating a subconscious sense of bravery.



Challenges and resilience (00:26:39) Clover shares her views on bravery, discussing personal challenges and the determination to keep moving forward.



Motherhood and writing (00:31:07) Clover talks about her journey into writing, motherhood, and the motivation it provided.



Facing loss and grief (00:40:16) Clover discusses the importance of bringing a narrative around death into daily life and the impact of loss on her family.



Embracing creativity and optimism (00:54:56) Feeling optimistic and empowered in embracing creativity and new opportunities at an older age.

S20 Ep3: Clover Stroud, journalist, author & podcast host, on navigating grief and finding joy

Eshita Kabra-Davies, founder of By Rotation, talks to Holly Tucker about promoting sustainable fashion consumption and raising money as a female founder.

S20 Ep2: Eshita Kabra-Davies, founder & CEO of By Rotation, on revolutionising the rental fashion industry

Why did Giovanna Fletcher call her encounter with royalty 'bizarrely beautiful'?



Actress, author, podcast host, a true champion of mothers and the “I’m a Celebrity” Queen of the Castle shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and empowerment.



From her experience starring in the West End musical "Everybody's Talking About Jamie" to her childhood encounters with bullying, which ignited her passion for creativity. She candidly discusses societal pressures around body image and her transformative shift towards prioritising mental well-being and overall health.



Discover Giovanna's unexpected foray into writing, fueled by her captivating podcast "Happy Mum, Happy Baby," where she champions candid discussions about motherhood. Hear about her illuminating conversation with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, on maternal mental health and her empowering work leading treks for breast cancer survivors.



Giovanna's story is a testament to the power of resilience, the beauty of embracing your unique path, and the importance of supporting each other through life's ups and downs. 



Tune in for a dose of inspiration that will surely spark a fire within you. Let's celebrate our journeys and the lessons we gather along the way!



If you enjoyed this discussion, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Bryony Gordon, journalist and author.



Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business finds and inspiration, nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus exclusive offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 





Win an Independent Ad Break on Conversations of Inspiration: If you’re a founder yourself and would like to be in with a chance to win your own ad break on this podcast head over to holly.co/dell. This competition is delivered in partnership with Dell Technologies and their programs Dell for Startups and DWEN (Dell Women’s Entrepreneur Network) — which provide startup expertise from dedicated technology advisors and scalable solutions to ensure your business is always ready to grow.



Time Stamps:



Giovanna's Career and Musical Experience (00:02:40) Giovanna discusses her recent role in the West End musical "Everybody's Talking About Jamie" and the significance of the story.



Facing Bullying and Coping Mechanisms (00:11:34) Giovanna shares her experience of being bullied as a child and how she coped with it by immersing herself in creativity and storytelling.



Impact of Motherhood (00:21:10) Discussing the change in perspective due to motherhood and the shift in focus from seeking approval.



Insecurities and Confidence (00:23:24) Exploring the impact of insecurities and the strength gained from overcoming challenges.



Body Positivity and Self-Acceptance (00:27:02) Discussing the societal pressure on body image and the shift towards self-acceptance and empowerment.



Experience on "I'm a Celebrity" (00:39:53) Giovanna reflects on her experience on the TV show "I'm a Celebrity" and the relief of being away from uncertainties.



Discovery of Writing (00:43:13) Giovanna shares her surprise at her writing career taking off and the encouragement she received.



Meeting with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge (00:49:08) Giovanna shares her experience of meeting and recording a podcast with Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, discussing maternal mental health.



Giovanna's Charity Work (00:56:09) Giovanna's involvement with CoppaFeel and her charity treks to raise awareness of breast cancer.



Breast Cancer Awareness (01:00:59) Giovanna discusses the importance of early diagnosis and breast cancer symptoms.



Embracing Authenticity (01:07:45) Giovanna's personal journey to embracing her authentic self and advice for others.



Letter to Younger Self (01:18:05) Giovanna reads a letter to her younger self, offering advice and reflections on life and self-worth.

S20 Ep1: Giovanna Fletcher, on living a life of self-acceptance

Jay Blades MBE, presenter of the BBC’s beloved The Repair Shop, returns to the podcast for a second time with his infectious energy and soulful wisdom — this time, sharing his belief in the power of using human connection to strengthen communities through craft. 



WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE

You’ll hear how Jay leans into vulnerability, seeing it as being an essential tool for transformation 
Be inspired by his dedication to bringing people together through creativity and craft, to make a difference in the world
Learn more about the power of embracing change and using it as a catalyst for growth 

If you enjoyed this discussion, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Keith Brymer Jones, designer, master potter, author and Great Pottery Throwdown judge.  



Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business finds and inspiration, nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus exclusive offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice.

Jeanette Aurdal on finding success being who you were always meant to be

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