In this episode I spoke Jane Sommerville, Managing Director of Bowers and Jones. Jane shared her inspiring journey in the manufacturing and engineering industry where she began her career in British Steel where she benefited from a comprehensive training programme that helped her to transition into business management and development, ultimately leading her to take over Bowers and Jones though a management buyout.

We cover everything from the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated industry to the need for better career guidance in schools and more support for businesses when it comes to hiring and training apprentices.

You can find out more about Bowers and Jones here: https://bowersjones.com

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Danielle Cashmore, who works in her family-run business, BDLT Building Solutions. Danielle shared her journey into the world of business, which began when she joined her father's company after leaving sixth form. Starting from the ground up, she learned various aspects of the business, from making tea to project management, and eventually co-founded BDLT in March 2020.

We discussed the challenges she faced as a young woman in business, particularly the difficulties of establishing a new company during uncertain times and balancing her professional responsibilities with her personal life, especially after becoming a mother.

Danielle shares her excitement about a new venture in the property sector, where she aims to establish an estate agency. She reflected on the influence her father has had on her career and the importance of believing in oneself, especially for women in traditionally male-dominated industries like construction and property.

Find out more about BDLT here: https://bdlt.co.uk

You can also find out about Danielle's other passion - AFC Wolverhampton City: https://www.afcwulfrunians.co.uk/home

In this episode I was joined by Bella and Stella, the duo behind Thrive Employment ,a recruitment agency that launched 10 months ago.

They first met in the local pub, and over the years they have developed a strong professional relationship leading to them being partners in their newest venture.

Nella and Stella shared their personal experiences of feeling unheard and talked about the courage it took to make a significant career changes for their own happiness and balance in life.

This is a great episode where we explored the state of the recruitment industry and the importance of genuine connections in building a business .

You can find out more about Thrive Employment here: https://thriveemployment.co.uk

In this episode I spoke to Shamylla Sadiq who has recently launched her new business, Swabi, which focusses on Crypto taxes. Shamylla shared her journey from starting out in accounting through to discovering she was pregnant and pivoting into the world of self-employment.

We delved into the world of crypto currency, its evolution and the skepticism surrounding it. Shamylla highlighted the importance of due diligence and the need for individuals to be aware of their tax obligations when dealing with digital currencies.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in understanding the complexities of crypto taxes, and this who would like to give crypto a try but don't know where to start.

You can find out more about Shamylla and Swabi on her website here: https://swabi.co.uk

You can also get up to date information through Shamylla on Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/Crypto_Taxes_UK/

In this episode I speak to Laura Tatton, The AI Lady. We talked about the way the business environment has evolved dramatically over the years, particularly with the rise digital marketing and AI.

Laura talked about the importance of AI literacy and responsible usage, noting that many companies are eager to adopt AI tools but often lack a clear understanding of how to use them effectively.

Laura shared how being made redundant in her late 20's which ultimately pushed her into starting her own business. She reflected on her resilience and adaptability throughout her career, especially during her transition to AI.

Not only is Laura's story great to listen to but there are some fantastic takeaways about the use of AI.

You can find out more about The AI Lady here: https://www.theailady.uk

In this episode I speak to Holly Hunter, Head of Social Value at Nuneaton Signs. Holly shares how taking different opportunities has led her to her current role and the position that she now has working for a social enterprise, that is making a significant impact on the community.

Throughout our chat, Holly emphasises the importance of inclusivity and the unique strengths if their diverse workforce, where 70% of employees have a disability. She share inspiring stories of individuals whose lived have transformed through their work at Nuneaton Signs.

This episode is a powerful reminder of the importance of social value in business, the potential for change and the incredible impact that can be made when we prioritise inclusivity and support for all individuals.

Find out more about Nuneaton Signs here.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Daisy, the founder of Any Girl Netball, a community interest company dedicated to providing netball and sports opportunities for girls and women.

Daisy discussed the challenges she faced in establishing Any Girl Netball, particularly as a young woman in a male-dominated field. She emphasised the need for community engagement in sports and the importance of creating a safe and empowering environment for girls. Through Any Girl Netball, Daisy and her team provide free netball sessions, mentoring, and mental health support, all aimed at creating confidence and personal growth among participants.

You can find out more about Any Girl Netball here: https://www.anygirlnetball.co.uk

In this episode, I had the pleasure of catching up with Kelly Hill, the founder of The Early Years Company. We discussed her inspiring journey from being a nursery nurse to establishing a successful training company that supports nurseries and children's services across the UK. Kelly shared how her business was born out of a desire to help nurseries during the challenging times of COVID-19, and how she has since grown it to work with over 3,000 settings nationwide.

We explored the emotional load that women in business carry, particularly in sectors that involve vulnerable people, and how this affects their leadership and decision-making.

Kelly shares valuable insights on the challenges she faced as a woman in business, including the struggle for recognition and the pressure to conform to societal expectations.

This episode is filled with valuable lessons and reflections on the journey of entrepreneurship, especially for women navigating the complexities of business and personal life.

Find out more about The Early Years Company here: https://theearlyyearscompany.co.uk

In this episode I speak to Kirsty Davies-Chinnock, the founder of 'Women with Metal', a movement dedicated to empowering women in the metal and manufacturing industries.

Kirsty shared how a six-week short term job turned into nearly 40 years in the industry. Frustrated by the misconception there were no women in metal, she launched a podcast which led to the first 'Women with Metal' conference.

Kirsty shares her insights on the changing landscape of the world of work, the challenges she has faced and how she is using this knowledge to be a driving force behind helping to fill the skills shortage in the industry.

You find out more about Kirsty and Women with Metal here:

LinkedIn

Website

Instagram@womenwithmetal

In this episode , I had the privilege of speaking with Hayley Andrews. With over 23 years of experience, Hayley has built a diverse portfolio that includes residential and commercial properties, and she is the founder of Hard Hats to Heels, a network aimed at empowering women in a traditionally male-dominated field.

Hayley shared her journey into property, which began with her first home purchase and evolved into a full-time career.

A key focus of our discussion was the creation of Hard Hats to Heels, which provides a supportive space for women to network, share experiences, and gain confidence in their professional endeavors. Hayley passionately described the importance of visibility and representation for women in property, noting that many young women are now seeking opportunities in the industry.

You can find out more about Hard Hat to Heels here: https://hardhatstoheels.co.uk