Messy Business - with Libby Langley

I’m so proud to be here, talking about 12 years in business—especially on the day this podcast is released. November 30th marks my last day of employment, and December 1st was the first day I became self-employed. I remember walking away from my old job, feeling both terrified and excited, not knowing what would come next. It’s been a rollercoaster ride, and I’ve learned so much along the way.

When I first started my business, I was still figuring it all out. I had experience running training courses and marketing, but I had no idea what it really meant to run a business. I thought it was all about getting clients and doing the work, but it’s so much more than that. Over the years, I’ve had to wear all the hats—being my own personal assistant, content creator, accountant, and more.

The road hasn’t always been easy. I’ve had to face burnout, go through a divorce, and deal with the challenges of balancing business with personal life. But through it all, my business has grown, and I’ve learned invaluable lessons that I want to share with you today.

There’s been a lot of change in the business world, too. When I started, social media was just Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn—Instagram didn’t even exist yet. Now, there’s an overwhelming amount of noise in the business world, especially on social media. But despite all the changes, the fundamentals of business remain the same. It's about knowing your numbers, knowing your audience, and staying true to your mission.

I’ve been through a lot over the past 12 years—successes, failures, and everything in between. And I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and how it’s shaped the way I work today.

The journey of being in business is full of challenges, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. If you’re struggling, know that you’re not alone. Keep pushing forward, stay true to your vision, and focus on the fundamentals. The noise will always be there, but your clarity and your mission are what will keep you grounded.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

 If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear from you. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and let me know what stood out or what part of your own journey you’re reflecting on today.

Here’s to celebrating the wins, learning from the losses, and continuing to grow as business owners.

Libby x

If your business doesn’t make you happy, what’s the point? In this episode, I’m sharing the truth about designing a business that actually fits you — not the version you think you “should” have.

After 12 years and countless reinventions, I know one thing for sure: it’s never too late to change your mind. Whether you’re craving more freedom, excitement, momentum, or meaning in your work, I’ll guide you through the essential questions to ask so your business supports your life — not the other way around.

We’ll talk about:

This is your gentle reminder that business isn’t static. You’re allowed to shift, scrap, simplify, or reinvent entirely. The “perfect” business is the one that feels aligned for you — today, not ten years ago.

✨ The more your business feels like you, the easier it is to show up and succeed.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode gave you something to think about, I’d love to hear what resonated. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and tell me how you’re reshaping your business to suit you.

Here’s to less hustle, more harmony — and a business that feels like home.
 Libby x

You might not think data is sexy, but trust me — getting clear on the facts and figures in your business is one of the simplest ways to feel more confident and in control. In this episode, I’m diving into the essential numbers every business owner needs to know — from the difference between turnover and profit to what your actual costs are and how that impacts your growth.

I’m sharing why clarity on your profit margins, costs, and revenue goals will help you make better decisions and avoid the kind of burnout that comes from winging it month to month. I also give you a real-life example (involving my marathon training!) to explain why knowing your starting point is essential if you ever want to reach your goals.

Whether you’re just starting out or want to take your income to the next level, this episode will help you look at your business with fresh eyes — and stop falling for those shiny Instagram income claims that don’t tell the whole story.

✨ When you know your numbers, you can build a business that works for you — not the other way around.

Helpful Links:

🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode resonated with you, I’d love to hear about it. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and tell me where you're listening from — during your bookkeeping session, your morning walk, or while making peace with your profit margin.

Here’s to making numbers your new business BFF.

Libby x

Ever been remembered for something totally random – like your distant connection to a celebrity chef – rather than your actual work? You're not alone. In this episode, I'm diving into the power (and the unpredictability!) of how we're remembered, and what that means for building real relationships in business.

I've been going to lots of local networking events lately, and one question keeps popping up: “Tell us an interesting fact about yourself.” It always throws me! But I shared my go-to – a funny little connection to Ainsley Harriott – and guess what? That’s exactly what someone remembered about me weeks later… not my name, not what I do, but that I’m “the one related to that chef.”

It really got me thinking about how we actually connect with others. It's not always your pitch or your credentials. Sometimes it's a laugh, a shared moment, or a surprising fact that sticks – and that’s what creates the human connection that business relationships are built on. I share a few real examples, including how a running joke about exercise turned into a meaningful business friendship, and reflect on how I was once known for being the lime green, social media strategist – and how that’s evolved.

✨ Whether you’re networking in person or showing up online, people buy from people they like – and remember.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode made you laugh, nod along, or reflect on what you’re known for, I’d love to hear from you. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and let’s keep the conversation going.

Here’s to the unexpected, the human, and the real reasons we stick in people’s minds.

Libby x.

This week, we’re celebrating a big milestone — episode 50 of the Life in Business podcast! It’s so easy to start something and let it fizzle out, but consistency and reflection are key to growth. I’ve learned so much since my first few episodes, and I’m reflecting on the journey that’s led me here. Just like with writing my first blog or any new venture, we all start somewhere — and, trust me, we’re all rubbish at it in the beginning.

In today’s episode, we’re diving into how important it is to celebrate milestones in your business. This doesn’t mean popping champagne after every task; it’s more about acknowledging your progress and giving yourself a moment of pause. Whether it’s signing a new client, hitting a podcast milestone, or reflecting on how far you’ve come, it’s all about recognizing your achievements, big or small.

I share how I celebrate, from updating my income spreadsheet (because it anchors me) to simply walking away from my desk to savor the moment. So often, we skip the celebration part and dive straight into the next task, but it’s important to take a breather and say, "Well done, me."

I also chat about setting meaningful goals, not just for numbers, but for experiences like speaking at events or being a guest on other podcasts. This isn’t just about growth in revenue but growth in experiences and opportunities that align with what I love doing.

Celebrate every step of the way, not just the big wins. It’s the small, consistent moments that build up to something much bigger.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode hit home for you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley or send me a message on LinkedIn. Let’s talk about the basics you’re focusing on right now!

Here’s to getting back to basics and building a business that works for you.

Libby x

When I first started my business, it was because I wanted freedom and flexibility — something that had been missing in my previous job. But along the way, I’ve lost sight of that and created a business that, at times, feels just as complicated as the one I left behind. It’s easy to forget these basics, especially when you're busy with day-to-day tasks.

In this episode, we’ll also look at how you want to work. Are you a one-to-one person or do you prefer group settings? Do you want to build passive income streams or focus on more hands-on services? This is crucial to creating a business that feels aligned with your strengths and energy.

And then, of course, there’s money — the thing that makes your business run. How much do you need to earn, and how much do you want to earn? These are two very different questions, and it's time to really get clear on them. The way you answer these questions shapes your approach to business, so don’t overlook them.

The success and happiness of your business come from regularly checking in with these basics. By asking yourself what matters most to you, how you want to work, and how much you want to earn, you can build a business that actually supports your life — not the other way around. Let’s stop chasing after the wrong things and start creating a business that truly aligns with our values.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode hit home for you, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley or send me a message on LinkedIn. Let’s talk about the basics you’re focusing on right now!

Here’s to getting back to basics and building a business that works for you.

Libby x

Feeling like you’ve messed up in business? You’re not alone — and it’s not the end of the world.

In this episode, I’m getting honest about the business mistakes I’ve made — and why they didn’t break me. From missed appointments to botched launches, I’ve had my fair share of “oh no” moments over the years, including a cringe-worthy scheduling error that still haunts me a decade later. But what I’ve learned is this: the mistake itself doesn’t matter nearly as much as how you handle it.

We’ll talk about the difference between tiny typos and big humdingers, how perfectionism and neurodivergence can make mistakes feel 10x worse, and why some of your best opportunities might actually come from your most awkward blunders. I’m also sharing how I’ve turned things around — with grace, humour, and the occasional tequila hangover.

If you’ve ever wanted the ground to swallow you up after hitting send on an email with the wrong link, this episode will help you breathe again.

✨ Messing up is normal. It’s how you respond that shapes your growth and reputation.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode gave you a bit of comfort or clarity, I’d love to know. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and share your biggest “oops” moment — or just let me know you’re human too.

Here’s to giving ourselves a break and learning as we go.

Libby x

Passive income sounds like the dream — money while you sleep, freedom from constant hustle — but is it really as effortless as it seems? Let's bust some myths.

You’ve probably seen the shiny Instagram promises: set up a course or write a book, then sit back on a beach while the payments roll in. And yes, passive income can be part of a smart business model — I’ve had various products over the years, from books to courses, and it is a great feeling when someone buys something while you’re doing your weekly shop. But the word “passive”? That’s where things get misleading.

Creating any passive income stream requires time, energy, and often upfront cost — whether it's writing the book, recording the course, or setting up the tech. And even after the thing is built, there’s ongoing work: marketing, SEO, managing platforms, maybe even paid ads or outsourcing. Affiliate links? Same thing. You still have to show up, talk about it, and keep it visible.

So in today’s episode, I’m unpacking what really goes into creating passive income — without sugarcoating it. This isn’t about bursting your bubble; it’s about helping you make informed, strategic decisions. Because when you know what to expect, you can actually make it work — on your terms.

✨ When you treat passive income like a real product, not a pipe dream, you give yourself a chance to build something scalable — without the burnout.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

 If this episode shifted your thinking, I’d love to know. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and tell me what kind of “passive” product you’re dreaming of (or already have running). Let’s cut through the noise and build something that works for you.

Here’s to smarter business, less pressure, and telling the truth about what it really takes.

Libby x

What does a trip to Disneyland Paris have to do with your business? More than you might think. In this episode, I’m unpacking some surprisingly powerful lessons from my recent getaway — including why being consistently you can be more valuable than being shiny and new.

Despite coming home with a chest infection (and my husband with Covid!), I couldn’t help but notice how much the Disney brand still gets right. Yes, parts of the park felt outdated — even inappropriate in places — but the experience still delivered. And that’s the key takeaway. A strong, consistent brand experience builds loyalty and impact, even when things aren’t perfect.

Here’s what we’re talking about:

✨ You don’t need to reinvent your business every year — you just need to stand firm in what you believe, deliver it consistently, and make it memorable.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode got you thinking about your brand or customer journey, I’d love to hear your thoughts. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and let me know what stood out for you — or what your favourite business lesson from a holiday has been!

Here’s to building brands that last (and maybe skipping the germs next time).

Libby x.

If you’ve ever felt like you're not good enough or that your business isn't quite at the level it “should” be, this episode is your reminder that success doesn’t require perfection.

In today’s honest and reassuring conversation, I’m diving into the myth of needing to be the best — the number one, the go-to expert, the high-earner — in order to be taken seriously or feel worthy in business. That pressure? It’s often self-imposed, especially when you're a solo business owner trying to juggle everything.

I’ll walk you through some household names — like Zoom, Netflix, and Spotify — that aren't actually the top players in terms of market share, yet are still wildly successful and trusted. I even share some surprising facts about famous individuals like Bruce Springsteen (spoiler: no UK number one singles!), to remind you that accolades aren’t the only measure of impact or longevity.

We’ll also talk about how to handle unsubscribes, negative feedback, or refund requests without making it personal — because rejection is part of running a business, and it doesn’t mean you’re doing anything wrong.

✨ You don’t have to be the biggest or the best — you just have to be you, doing your work with heart.

Helpful Links:
🌀 Download the free guide: Feeling Stuck
📖 Read my book
💬 Work with me

If this episode gave you a bit of breathing room or a new perspective, I’d love to hear from you. Tag me on Instagram @libbylangley and share what landed most.

Here’s to running your business on your terms — with less pressure and more peace.

Libby x.