About the Guest: Marina Gibson is an acclaimed fly-fishing instructor and advocate who has revolutionized the angling community. Despite not coming from a commercial fishing background, Marina's passion for fishing was sparked in childhood through her mother's influence. In a bold move that defined her career, she left behind a demanding corporate position in London to pursue her true calling in fishing. Marina has since established her own fishing school and co-founded "Cancer in Pisces," an impactful charity that brings the therapeutic benefits of fishing to cancer patients. Her journey has culminated in the publication of her book, which offers intimate insights into her experiences in the fishing world.

Episode Summary: In this captivating installment of "Shoe Dares Wins," host Michelle delves into conversation with Marina Gibson, whose presence has reshaped the fishing industry. The episode weaves through Marina's transformative decision to abandon corporate security for her fishing dreams, exploring how this leap of faith led to unexpected opportunities and challenges.

The discussion touches on several compelling themes:

• The courage required to pursue one's authentic path
• Fishing's profound impact on mental wellness and healing
• Challenging gender stereotypes in traditional male spaces
• Building a successful business while staying true to one's values
• The power of social media in creating meaningful connections
• Balancing professional ambitions with personal life changes, including impending motherhood

Marina shares candid insights about how her business evolution actually affected her personal fishing time, the challenges of becoming a qualified instructor, and her mission to make fishing more accessible to diverse groups. The conversation also explores how her charity work with cancer patients has added deeper meaning to her professional journey.

Key Takeaways:

• Marina's transition from corporate success to fishing entrepreneur demonstrates the value of following one's passion, even when it means taking significant risks
• Through "Cancer in Pisces," Marina has proven fishing's therapeutic potential, creating meaningful experiences for cancer patients and their companions
• Her success in building an inclusive fishing business shows how traditional industries can be transformed through fresh perspectives
• Social media proved instrumental in Marina's journey, connecting her with a global community of women in fishing
• The intersection of personal passion and professional purpose can create unexpected opportunities for positive impact

Notable Quotes:

1. "Giving up my job and deciding to chase the fishing thing… I'm just gonna chase the fishing thing." - Marina Gibson
2. "Anyone who supported the Shoe Dares Wins shop and bought hoodies and tea. I absolutely love you." - Michelle
3. "I think Instagram was when I really started to pick up on. There are women around the world who are kind of doing this as a job or as a hobby." - Marina Gibson
4. "All I thought about… Fishing was, like, the one… The thing." - Marina Gibson
5. "My own fishing suffered as a consequence because I put so much energy into becoming a qualified instructor and starting up a business." - Marina Gibson

This episode offers listeners an inspiring glimpse into how following one's passion can lead to not just personal fulfillment, but also meaningful impact in others' lives. Marina's story serves as a powerful reminder that sometimes the boldest decisions yield the most rewarding outcomes.

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As the "Shoe Dares Wins" podcast reaches its first Christmas season, host Michelle reflects on a year full of growth, gratitude, and inspiring stories. With a focus on exploring stories of women who have dared and won, Michelle passionately shares insights into the podcast's journey from its inception to becoming a shared space for empowerment and inspiration. Her reflections are infused with appreciation for her audience and guests, acknowledging both the challenges and triumphs of her adventure in podcasting. Michelle also reveals her personal journey with ADHD and the significant role the podcast has played in helping her achieve consistency and growth.

In this episode, Michelle's determination to uphold the values of the "Shoe Dares Wins" ethos shines through her commitment to creating a platform for empowerment and connection. The episode is packed with engaging narratives from the past year, along with a sneak peek into the upcoming high-profile guests and plans for live events. Michelle also candidly discusses the challenges of running the Shoe Dares Wins clothing brand while keeping the podcast financially viable, demonstrating the resilience needed to succeed in these ventures. Amidst these reflections, Michelle previews the exciting, expansive plans for the year ahead, including a focus on personal growth and community connection.

• Michelle's journey in podcasting began with a bold leap of faith, driven by passion and commitment to inspire women.
• The podcast, rooted in face-to-face storytelling, has facilitated meaningful connections with guests from various backgrounds.
• The transition from construction to storytelling has highlighted Michelle's passion for people and their stories.
• The podcast remains a personal and professional growth journey, helping Michelle manage her ADHD and consistency challenges.
• Despite financial hurdles, the Shoe Dares Wins brand continues to grow, supporting community building and empowerment.

• "I wanted to go two feet in because I had to live by the name she who Dares Wins."
• "Nothing beats sitting down, face to face with someone and hearing their story."
• "I came to the realization after working in construction...it was the stories, it was the people."
• "The first three years of any business are incredibly hard...knowing that the show is growing is all that I need."
• "As it grows, I know the show's only going to get better."

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Jenny and Oonagh Jenny and Oonagh, the passionate duo behind The Marshmallowists, are redefining the way people perceive marshmallows. Bringing a gourmet twist to this classic treat, they are known for crafting artisanal marshmallows with innovative flavors and high-quality ingredients. Their entrepreneurial journey showcases their ability to combine creativity with business acumen, as they spearhead The Marshmallowists' operations, manage collaborations, and drive brand growth. Both bring diverse experiences and a shared love for experimentation, making them true trendsetters in the confectionery industry.

In this engaging bonus round with The Marshmallowists, hosts delve into the entrepreneurial and personal insights of Jenny and Oonagh. The episode explores the duo's journey, delivering marshmallow-centric business wisdom alongside heartfelt self-reflections and joyful anecdotes. As they discuss their favorite motivational quotes, career check-ins, and the importance of continuous learning, Jenny and Oonagh offer listeners a delightful peek into the dynamic life of confectionery creators who mix business with creativity.

Throughout the episode, Jenny and Oonagh share their profound insights on business management and personal growth, underscoring the importance of adaptability and skill acquisition. Their stories reveal how varied each day can be, from events to baking or even learning new vehicle-related skills. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, creativity, and the marshmallow-making craft. Keywords like "artisanal marshmallows," "entrepreneurial journey," and "new skills" provide depth and SEO-optimized content to engage listeners and entice them to plunge into this sweet story.

• "Go be better" serves as the Marshmallowists' mantra, encouraging better choices and workmanship in everyday actions.
• Jenny and Oonagh appreciate their career's variety and continuously evolving nature, exemplifying the entrepreneurial spirit.
• Embracing new skills and responsibilities is crucial in their business journey, leading to growth and more efficient operations.
• For aspiring business leaders, they emphasize the significance of embracing support and letting go of control.
• Self-confidence in decision-making is key; both Jenny and Oonagh highlight the journey to trust their instincts and choices.

• "Go be better. Being better, says the marshmallowist."
• "Our day is so varied. Our life is so varied."
• "I am able to tell the temperature of sugar just by looking at it."
• "It's great for a business when everyone is empowered to do their job properly."
• "Every choice that you make that lead

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Elissa is a seasoned commercial pilot and breathwork instructor who embarked on an unconventional career path by forgoing university to pursue her passion for flying. She began her journey as a private pilot at 17, and after facing challenges such as the 2008 financial crisis, became a flight instructor before shifting gears into the military. Despite being made redundant from military training, Elissa successfully transitioned to a thriving career in a unique aerospace company, where she has been for over 14 years. She is also dedicated to teaching breathwork to help others manage stress and improve wellbeing, conducting corporate workshops and private sessions tailored to individual needs.

Join host Michelle on the She Dares Wins podcast as she sits down with Elissa, a commercial pilot who dared to follow a less conventional path in the world of aviation. Ignoring the typical university route, Elissa embarked on her flying career at 19 and navigated through a series of challenges including the global financial crisis and changes in military demands. Through determination and self-guidance, she established herself as an expert in the aviation industry, refusing to let setbacks deter her from her goal of becoming a pilot.

In this enlightening episode, Elissa shares the gripping story of her recent flight through Storm Bert, providing listeners with a thrilling behind-the-scenes look at the high-pressure decisions pilots face. Her foundational belief in perseverance shines through as she discusses navigating unpredictable weather and utilizing breathwork—a practice integral to her life for managing stress and focus. Discover key takeaways about resilience, pursuing one’s passion despite adversity, and how the simple act of controlled breathing can be a powerful tool for managing stress.

• Elissa embarked on her flying career at an early age, choosing aviation school over university, demonstrating the power of following one’s passion.
• Despite setbacks such as the global financial crisis and redundancy from military pilot training, she successfully pivoted her career into commercial aviation.
• Elissa’s encounter with Storm Bert exemplifies the intense decision-making process and responsibility pilots face, underscoring her expertise and composure.
• Breathwork has become a secondary passion for Elissa, which she uses both personally and professionally to manage stress and improve focus.
• The journey emphasizes resilience and the importance of pursuing what truly fulfills you, regardless of obstacles along the way.

• "I am going to be a pilot. And I just didn't see the point in going to university to spend three years doing a subject that was unrelated to my goal."
• "I've learned about flying from that, or I've learned from flying about that. Where you find yourself in situations that you think that was. What was I thinking?"
• "In a world where you're always switched on... just to take a few minutes to stop everything and come back to yourself, I find then for that second trip I go into things with a clearer mind."
• "Breathwork is something that you can use anytime, anywhere because all it needs is your breath."
• "It doesn't have to be complicated. It can be just as simple as following your breath as it comes in and out."

• Guest's Breathwork Sessions: Elissa offers priva

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Louise Proddow is a seasoned professional who has carved out a remarkable career in the tech industry, particularly during its burgeoning dot-com era. With a rich history in managing large-scale projects, such as the launch of boo.com and lastminute.com, Louise has established herself as a formidable force in branding and digital communication. At the pinnacle of her corporate career, she served as Vice President at Nokia and has since transitioned into entrepreneurship, founding her own agency. Beyond her professional achievements, she is also known for promoting wellness and empowerment themes, using platforms like Instagram to inspire others.

Welcome to another episode of the She Who Dares Wins podcast, where Michelle sits down with the incredibly inspiring Louise, who shares her journey of overcoming personal hardships and breaking barriers in the male-dominated tech industry. This episode offers an insightful look at how Louise found her voice and built an extraordinary career despite challenges such as growing up with a dyslexic diagnosis and facing familial issues. Her story exemplifies resilience and serves as a powerful motivator for anyone looking to overcome adversity.

In this captivating episode, Louise discusses her transition from the corporate tech world to becoming an entrepreneur, highlighting the joy of creating projects she truly loved. Listen in as she reveals her struggles and triumphs, discussing everything from navigating corporate politics to balancing a demanding career with raising two daughters. SEO keywords such as 'tech career', 'female empowerment', and 'corporate politics' are interwoven throughout this dialogue, emphasizing the core themes of resilience, authenticity, and self-discovery. Louise also opens up about her current pursuits in wellness and her empowering online presence, encouraging listeners to embrace vulnerability and to live boldly at any age.

• Louise emphasizes the importance of listening to one's gut instincts and being true to oneself.
• Building a fulfilling career in tech, Louise balanced her personal and professional life by remaining passionate and authentic.
• She highlights the challenges women face in corporate environments and offers insights into overcoming them.
• The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship can be liberating and rewarding, as Louise discovered through her consulting and agency work.
• Embracing vulnerability and seeking therapy can be pivotal in personal growth and establishing healthy relationships.

• "You can train yourself to have a positive mindset, and I have got a really positive mindset now."
• "I think being empowered sexually is just as important as being empowered mentally at work."
• "You're just thinking, I like people that are a bit, you know, that imperfectly perfect scenario."
• "I don't feel old, and I don't feel unenergetic, and I wanted to embody midlife in a holistic way."
• "It's finding something that gives you a spark, then your vulnerabilities and your nervousness kind of goes away gradually because you're on the right path."

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Lucy Mills is a dynamic presenter known for her vibrant energy and enthusiasm on stage. With a rich background in media production, Lucy has spent over 15 years working in the industry, finding her niche in casting and developing her skills with major companies like the BBC and Vice. Recently, she has transitioned into live presenting, where her role as a "Go to Hype woman" allows her to engage with audiences in sports arenas. Lucy has worked closely with prominent events, including the NBA and the Olympics, showcasing her ability to connect with both athletes and audiences. Her journey reflects a profound dedication to the arts and media, constantly evolving her craft and seeking new challenges.

In this exciting episode of the Shoe Dares Wins podcast, host Michelle welcomes Lucy Mills, a charismatic presenter whose career in the media industry spans over 15 years. The discussion kicks off with Lucy sharing her transition from casting to becoming a full-time presenter, a move that highlights her daring nature and dedication to chasing her dreams. Michelle and Lucy delve into the intricacies of working in media, the challenges of live presenting in large sports arenas, and the energy required to engage excited crowds. Lucy's journey from media production to captivating live audiences is both inspiring and insightful for anyone looking to break into the industry.

The conversation further explores the theme of curiosity and how it has played a central role in Lucy's career progression. Lucy candidly discusses the moments of self-doubt and imposter syndrome she encountered along the way, offering listeners valuable insights into staying resilient in demanding fields. The episode unravels Lucy's passion for encouraging others, especially women, to find their voice and embrace their unique paths, underscoring the significance of daring to step forward into the spotlight. Michelle and Lucy also dive into personal growth, with Lucy sharing how vulnerability and authenticity have fueled her personal and professional development.

• Lucy Mills exemplified courage by transitioning from casting to full-time presenting, emphasizing the importance of chasing one's dreams.
• The role of curiosity has been pivotal in Lucy's career, driving her to explore and succeed in various media domains.
• Lucy discusses the reality of imposter syndrome and the challenges of staying authentic in the entertainment industry.
• The episode highlights the power of vulnerability and genuine connection in personal and professional growth.
• Lucy inspires women to embrace their uniqueness and advocate for themselves in male-dominated industries.

• "I believe that I have dared by being curious and therefore have won."
• "It took me a long time to find that voice, to really champion myself."
• "I love that as a title… Go to Hype woman."
• "We're all humans, and we're all battling this external, internal, like, battle all the time."
• "This is your own unique opportunity and taking that seriously, not being complacent about it."

• Lucy's Instagram: Lucy Mills' Instagram

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Amy Stringfellow is a seasoned boat builder and educator with over 14 years of experience in the marine industry. Initially inspired by her own experiences living aboard and working on boats, Amy pursued formal education at the Marine School in Falmouth. She eventually transitioned into teaching, becoming a program manager and a mentor for aspiring boat builders. Despite facing personal challenges, including a diagnosis of epilepsy, Amy has carved out a niche for herself in both traditional and contemporary boat building techniques. She is passionate about empowering women in trades by offering specialized woodworking courses and contributing to the community through educational initiatives.

In this enriching episode of the "She Who Dares Wins" podcast, host Michelle welcomes Amy Stringfellow, a renowned boat builder and educator, to discuss her unique journey of daring to enter a traditionally male-dominated industry and the triumphs she has experienced along the way. Recorded against the scenic backdrop of a campfire, this conversation delves into Amy’s path from living on a boat to becoming an influential teacher and advocate for women in trades. Her story is not only an exploration of personal passion and perseverance but a testament to how women can excel in non-traditional roles.

Amy shares her transition from learning the ropes of boat building in New Zealand back to the UK, where she pursued formal education and eventually a career as a shipwright. Her tale is laden with keywords such as "traditional shipwright," "marine school in Falmouth," "wooden boat building," and "industry in the UK," each reflecting critical stages of her career. She describes the sensory learning experiences, the challenges of working between Cornwall and Devon, and the gratifying shift from being a boat builder to an educational facilitator. Throughout the episode, listeners are provided with rich insights into the importance of versatility in trades, advocacy for women, and the significant life changes influenced by her experience with epilepsy.

• Amy Stringfellow's journey shows the power of perseverance and self-education in forging a career in boat building.
• Despite facing significant health challenges, such as epilepsy, Amy transitioned into teaching to inspire confidence and skills in young people and women.
• Industry knowledge through both traditional and modern techniques is crucial for success in boat building.
• Mentorship and networking, like the women in boat building initiatives, are pivotal in breaking down barriers in male-dominated trades.
• Teaching fosters personal growth and confidence, highlighting the dual engagement of learning and emotional support.

1. "I dared to be a boat builder and I won for a bit."
2. "Teaching now...I think my time in boat building is kind of petered off."
3. "There's no reason why we can't set up a chair for someone with paralysis to use the bandsaw."
4. "When you're governed by the City and Guilds standard from the UK government...there are gaps that aren't geared to get people into being self-employed."
5. "Taking that mystery out of how to use a drill properl

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Amie Battams is a passionate and unconventional figure in the fly fishing world. Despite starting her fishing journey during the 2020 lockdowns, Amie has made significant strides in the industry, known for her humor, authenticity, and unconventional approach. Her rise as a social media influencer in fishing has garnered her a substantial following and brought opportunities to travel and fish in diverse locations around the world. Amie is keenly focused on breaking stereotypes, advocating for more inclusivity, and challenging the status quo in traditionally male-dominated fishing spaces.

In this engaging episode of the "Sho Dares Wins" podcast, host Michelle welcomes Amie Flyfish, a unique and inspiring figure in the world of fly fishing. Amie shares her journey from entering the fishing world during the 2020 lockdown to becoming an influential personality and advocate for inclusivity within the sport. Her unexpected passion for fishing, especially fly fishing, has not only provided her with peace and purpose but also offered her a platform to challenge societal norms.

The conversation delves into how Amy quickly adapted to the technical aspects of fly fishing, her participation in competitive fishing, and how her fearless attitude shapes her experience in what is typically seen as a male-dominated industry. Amie candidly discusses the industry’s dynamics, the challenges of being a woman angler, and the transformative power fishing has had on her life. Her humorous yet real-world approach serves as an invitation to all, urging them to explore hobbies without fear of judgment or preconceived limitations, and to simply enjoy the process of discovery and connection to nature.

• Fly Fishing's Accessibility: Amie emphasizes that fly fishing is accessible to anyone, regardless of physical strength, and can be a fulfilling hobby for people of all backgrounds.
• Power of Social Media: Leveraging social media has played a crucial role in Amie's journey, helping to connect with thousands and advocate for diversity within the fishing community.
• Breaking Barriers: Amie discusses the gender barriers within the fishing world, highlighting the challenges and opportunities for women, including confronting outdated club rules and cultural norms.
• Personal Growth through Hobbies: Amy shares how fly fishing has provided her with peace and perspective, enabling personal growth and offering new life experiences.
• Embracing Individuality: Encouraged listeners to remain authentic and bold in pursuing new interests and not succumb to societal pressures or negativity.

• "Once I started, that was it. I was hooked, like, literally."
• "It's fishing. Great thing about fishing is that you. Anyone can do it."
• "It keeps me sort of, like, grounded."
• "There’s so much fishing out there, like urban fishing's fantastic."
• "If I could say anything to anyone. Just put yourself out there."

Catch her on socials @amie.flyfish

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Bek is a passionate outdoor enthusiast and content creator who has captivated a substantial following through her authentic storytelling and love for nature. Despite initially perceiving herself as introverted and shy, Bek's journey of self-discovery led her to embrace her passion for the outdoors. She has seamlessly integrated her personal experiences with her professional life, turning her Instagram presence into a powerful tool for community building. Through her openness about life's trials, including the profound love story and loss of her partner Dan, she has inspired many and used her experiences to drive positive action, such as her work in charity fundraising for Marie Curie.

In this emotionally compelling episode, Michelle welcomes Bek, an inspiring content creator whose journey from a reserved academic background to a confident outdoor enthusiast unfolds poignantly. The conversation centers around Bek's incredible resilience and transformative personal experiences, particularly focusing on her profound relationship with her late partner, Dan. As Bek recounts their love story, listeners are taken through moments of unexpected joy juxtaposed with the devastating challenge of Dan's cancer diagnosis and his subsequent passing. This narrative does not just highlight mourning but celebrates how love can shape lasting legacies.

As the episode progresses, Bek shares her transformational journey of finding solace and identity in nature. Her insights into overcoming anxiety through exploring the outdoors, building a supportive community, and tackling unforeseen life challenges are deeply personal yet universally resonant. Embedded in her story are profound themes of resilience, personal growth, and the significant impact of surrounding oneself with a nurturing community. For those looking to grasp these life lessons, Bec’s story is a testament to daring greatly and winning richly.

• Discover how Bek transitioned from a life of uncertainty and self-doubt to embracing passion and purpose through outdoor adventures.
• Understand the power of community, as Bek shares how her social media following became an unexpected support system during challenging times.
• Explore the deep love story between Bek and her late partner Dan, and how that relationship continues to fuel her life's mission.
• Gain insight into the vital role nature plays in healing and finding joy, as Bec emphasizes respecting and protecting our natural world.
• Learn about the importance of vulnerability and openness in building authentic human connections and turning personal stories into community-driven actions.

• "I've always looked at myself as quite an introverted, shy, not much confidence."
• "The outdoors for me has just given me so much peace and solace."
• "I will never, not fail by myself now because I've got so many people from friends to Dan's family."
• "Even the most awful things in life don't happen for a reason, but things come from things like that."
• "I know that he's projected me to just build myself up even more as a person that I am."

• Follow Bek on Instagram for more engaging content and insights into her outdoor adventures.
• Explore Marie Curie's services here to learn about their support for individuals and families facing terminal illnesses.

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Zoe is a passionate creator and former footwear designer who has worked with several brands, most notably with a supplier in Staffordshire and contributing to brands like Baby Sham and Spalding. With a relentless determination and a personal journey that spans over a decade living in Italy, Zoe has transitioned from designing shoes to exploring personal development and the creation of a leather accessories brand, Mischief and Hide. Her story is characterized by her pursuit of purposeful living, navigating career shifts, and inspiring others to follow their passions.

In this compelling episode of the Shoe: She Dares Wins podcast, Michelle interviews Zoe, an inspiring creative force whose life and career are driven by a desire to follow dreams and overcome challenges. From her beginnings as a footwear designer to realizing her aspiration of living abroad, Zoe shares how her journey unfolded, marked by determination, creativity, and resilience. This episode flourishes with stories of ambition, personal growth, and inspiration for those looking to navigate their creative pursuits.

Zoe opens up about her career trajectory from designing shoes for brands like Baby Sham to working in Italy, shedding light on the unpredictable and serendipitous nature of her experiences. Overcoming professional challenges, Zoe emphasizes her journey of personal development where tuning into podcasts became a pivotal source of empowerment and growth. She speaks to the power of changing mindsets and how slow, deliberate progress in following dreams can lead to significant life transitions. The episode saturates itself with themes of resilience, adaptation, and the pursuit of passion despite obstacles.

• Zoe highlights her journey of relentless pursuit to follow her dreams, moving from the UK to Italy for her career in footwear design.
• The importance of mindset change and personal development becomes a core theme, as Zoe explores these avenues during significant life transitions.
• The notion of purpose, place, and people are pivotal aspects of her life journey, motivating her career and personal decisions.
• Zoe discusses how living and working abroad shaped her perspective, presenting both challenges and empowering experiences.
• Challenges in career transitions, especially in creative fields, reveal the need for adaptation, patience, and ultimately, perseverance in following passions.
• 
  

• "When I want something, I will go and get it... no matter how long it takes, I will not let go of it."
• "It's very easy to say, everybody's got their goals and their dreams. And that whole notion, I think, of, like, following your dreams."
• "Slowly, slowly is also a good option."
• "If I change my mindset, I can change everything that comes after that."
• "I had a leather accessories brand called Mischief and Hide

s here:

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