The Midlife Entrepreneur

The Midlife Entrepreneur

Download on the App Store

The Midlife Entrepreneur episodes

  • EP9: Jo Glynn-Smith wraps up Season 1 with reflections on what she’s learned and the standout insights from her guests.

    Reflecting on The First Season of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    Jo wraps up the inaugural season of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast by sharing heartfelt thoughts and insights from the show. She emphasises the importance of honesty, integrity, and authenticity and thanks her guests for sharing their journeys. 

    She discusses the purpose of her podcast: to inspire and motivate midlife individuals to pursue their business aspirations, whatever their age. Key takeaways include the necessity of having the right support team, the importance of self-care for maintaining energy and focus, and the value of continuous learning, especially in technology and marketing. 

    The episode also highlights Jo's personal journey from a corporate career to becoming a business owner, noting the challenges and rewards she has encountered along the way. Jo announces her intentions for season two, and invites listeners to contribute their stories or recommendations for future guests. 

    Closing remarks include a heartfelt thanks to supporters and a call to action for reviews.

     

    00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:14 Reflecting on Season One

    01:20 The Purpose of the Show

    02:15 Challenges and Opportunities in Midlife

    03:00 Personal Journey and Inspirations

    04:59 Thanking the Supporters

    06:56 Key Takeaways from Season One

    13:13 Looking Forward to Season Two

    16:23 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    17 min
  • EP8: Claire van Bekkum, Communications Specialist and Co-Owner of Monuskin

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo interviews Claire van Bekkum, co-owner of Monuskin, a UK-based skincare brand. Claire shares her journey from a successful 20-year publishing career to becoming a midlife entrepreneur alongside her husband Laurent. She discusses how they redefined the Monuskin brand, redesigned the packaging, and launched innovative skincare lines. Claire also delves into the dynamics of working with her husband, the challenges of pivoting careers, and the crucial lessons she's learned about communication, confidence, and entrepreneurship. The conversation is filled with insights and advice for midlife entrepreneurs looking to embark on a similar journey.

    00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:15 Meet Claire van Bekkum: From Publishing to Skincare

    00:57 Redefining Monuskin: A New Chapter

    01:45 Claire's Role and Responsibilities

    02:42 Transitioning from Publishing to Skincare

    04:39 Learning and Growing in a New Industry

    08:31 The Evolution of Monuskin

    18:17 Balancing Work and Personal Life

    22:08 Lessons Learned and Future Goals

    25:54 Behind the Scenes: The Challenges of Production

    26:51 Embracing Technology in Midlife Entrepreneurship

    28:02 The Power of Gratitude and Continuous Learning

    29:16 Facing Fears and Building Confidence

    30:09 The Importance of Partnership in Business

    30:43 Reflecting on Career and Personal Life

    34:19 Investments and Lessons Learned

    43:34 Acknowledging Influential Mentors

    47:08 Final Thoughts and Farewell

     

    Claire’s 3,2,1s:

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           Moving to a new factory was a gamechanger for the team and the business. 

    2.          It also motivated us to rethink our website and freshen everything up. We use Emma Provins from Skylight9 Ltd for Meta support. www.skylight9.co.uk 

    3.          Finding our photographer Ria Fletcher, follow her on Instagram @ria.fletcher


    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           At one stage we had the finance/ business side of things in a swanky office in Cheltenham and everything else at the factory, that was a mistake. Being all under one roof is better all round. 

    2.          I wish I’d met my husband 10 years earlier.  I was 46 when we got married. 

     

    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           Emma Redmayne, my boss at Conde Nast, I learned a lot from her, especially about self-belief and being proud to sell – whilst enjoying the experience and having fun! 

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    48 min
  • EP7: Gabby O'Connor, Essential Oils Expert and Founder of Iris Organics

    In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo talks to Gabby O'Connor, Founder of Iris Organics, an independent organic candle and diffuser business. 

    Gabby shares her journey from an HR and recruitment career in London to motherhood in Buckinghamshire, where she developed her passion for alternative medicines and essential oils into a thriving business. She speaks candidly about the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, the importance of using natural products, and how she leverages social media and community connections to grow her business. Gabby also emphasises the significance of supporting small, female-led businesses and offers advice to those considering starting their own ventures. 

    Key highlight moments include a feature by ITV's beauty editor, Sarah Jossel and collaborations with influencers.

     

    00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:37 Gabby's Journey from HR to Iris Organics

    01:48 Discovering the Power of Alternative Medicines

    04:25 The Birth of Iris Organics

    08:32 Balancing Business and Family Life

    12:27 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Small Business

    15:52 The Importance of Technology and Learning New Skills

    22:08 The Realities of Being a Midlife Entrepreneur

    25:55 Pinch Me Moments: Reflecting on Success

    26:09 The Journey to Unique Branding

    26:55 Overcoming Business Challenges

    28:01 The Power of Asking and Networking

    28:59 Celebrity Endorsements and Media Highlights

    32:47 Outsourcing and Business Growth

    33:36 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

    34:47 The Importance of Passion and Balance

    41:45 Building a Community and Engaging Customers

    43:47 Final Thoughts and Gratitude

     

    Gabby’s 3,2,1 :

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           Shopify – amazing for analytics and sales info

    2.          Web developer – Katie contact Gabby for her details

    3.          Social media training 

     

    2 things you wish you could have done differently:

    1.           Start earlier - but would I have had the confidence? Who knows. 

    2.          I don’t think there was another one – oops, my bad!

     

    1 person you’d like to thank:

     Sarah Jossel, beauty journalist and broadcaster for mentioning my candles on This Morning during lockdown. It’s so powerful to have somebody advocating for you. 

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    48 min
  • EP6: Abigail Wilmore, HR Specialist, CEO and Founder of People Flow

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo Glynn-Smith interviews Abigail Wilmore, a prominent HR leader, CEO and founder of People Flow. Abigail shares her career journey from starting at the shop floor to becoming a Chief People Officer at top fashion brands like Tom Ford and Stella McCartney. She discusses the inspiration behind her career shift to HR, the challenges she faced, and her dedication to heart-centered leadership. Abigail also delves into her healing journey over the past 15 years and how it has shaped her approach to leadership. Furthermore, she reveals how the pandemic led her to found People Flow, a community designed to support HR professionals by providing a space to discuss workplace challenges and mental health issues. This insightful conversation is filled with valuable advice for midlife entrepreneurs and HR professionals alike.

     00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    01:20 Abigail Wilmore's Career Journey

    02:37 Discovering a Passion for HR

    03:47 Climbing the Corporate Ladder

    10:47 The Birth of People Flow

    14:57 Challenges in HR and the Importance of Community

    20:28 Future Plans and Personal Healing Journey

    28:27 Heart-Centered Purpose in PeopleFlow

    29:39 The Gradual Process of Finding Purpose

    30:59 Gender Dynamics in HR

    33:06 Challenges of Running a Business

    37:25 The Power of Community and Networking

    40:27 Three, Two, Ones: Final Advice and Reflections

    46:13 Conclusion and Farewell


    Abigail's 3,2,1s

    3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.  Investing in my own healing and making sure I've got money to put to that.

    2.  Investing in creativity, whether it be art or dancing. 

    3. Fenella, my assistant. Wouldn't be where I am without her. 

    2 things you wish you'd done differently. 

    1. I wish I had a better understanding of accountancy and the financials. 

    2. I wish I had a better development programme for myself. 

    1 person you'd like to thank:

    1. Fenella, my assistant. Without her, I don't think the community would exist in the way that it does. Thank you 


    To download your LinkedIn contacts:​

    1. Access Settings & Privacy:
      • Click Me icon, top of homepage.​
      • Select Settings & Privacy from dropdown menu.​
    2. Navigate to Data Privacy:
      • In Settings & Privacy page, click Data privacy tab.​
    3. Request Your Data Archive:
      • Under How LinkedIn uses your data section, click Get a copy of your data.​
      • Choose Connections to export your contacts.​
      • Click Request archive.​
    4. Download Your Contacts:
      • LinkedIn will process your request and send an email to your registered email address.

    LinkedIn’s contact download process aligns with GDPR, with exceptions. 

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    48 min
  • EP5: Kirsty Raper, Instagram Specialist, Founder of Rebuildagram and Co-Founder of Reels Rockstars

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur, Jo sits down with Instagram specialist Kirsty Raper, founder of Rebuildagram and Co-founder of Reels Rockstars. Kirsty discusses her journey from a City career in PR and communications to launching a social media training business during the pandemic. 

    She shares personal stories including the tragic loss of her husband, the challenges of single parenthood, and how these experiences reshaped her career path. 

    Kirsty also delves into her passion for Instagram, the impact of her social media courses, and her successful partnership with Andie McDowell on Reels Rockstars. 

    The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of community in driving entrepreneurial success in midlife.


    00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:15 Meet Kirsty Raper: Instagram Specialist

    00:29 Kirsty's Journey to Rebuildagram

    01:24 The Impact of Social Media Training

    01:45 Kirsty's Passion for Instagram

    02:24 From PR to Social Media Expert

    04:20 Personal Tragedy and Career Shift

    06:26 Starting a Business in Midlife

    11:11 Balancing Work and Family

    14:43 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship

    21:29 The Power of Cold Water Therapy

    22:28 Collaborating with Andie McDowell

    25:19 Running Courses and Workshops

    25:40 The Joy of Collaboration

    26:26 Different Skills, Same Goal

    27:57 Instagram and Community Building

    34:26 Success and Ambition

    35:28 Future Goals and Reflections

    40:17 Advice for Entrepreneurs

    44:05 Gratitude and Closing Thoughts

     

    Kirsty’s 3,2,1:

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           People – we have a team of virtual PAs who are amazing, a brilliant web developer and a community manager  - they manage all the stiff we don’t have time to do and we couldn’t live without them. 

    2.          Tech – Canva is a life saver and so is Chat GPT

    3.          Cold water plunge pod – been a wellness game changer 

     

    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           I only have one – I wish I had started earlier! 

     

    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           Andie McDowell @dahliabeach my business partner and friend who makes me laugh every day and lifts me up when I feel down. 


    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    46 min
  • EP4: Anna Mason, Creative Director and Founder of Anna Mason London

    In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, Jo interviews Anna Mason, a fashion designer and entrepreneur from London. Anna shares her inspiring journey, starting from her early aspirations to her education at the Royal College in London, and working with fashion giants like Karl Lagerfeld, Max Mara, and Valentino. Anna talks about the challenges and triumphs of launching her own label in 2012, juggling family life, and overcoming failures in her early career. She emphasises the importance of quality materials, the creative process, and the resilience needed to run a fashion business. Anna also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of starting a business in midlife, her inspirations, and her aspirations for scaling her brand. The episode concludes with Anna reflecting on the emotional challenges and proud moments of her entrepreneurial journey.

    00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:15 Anna Mason's Early Career and Inspirations

    01:28 Launching the Anna Mason Label

    01:45 Defining the Anna Mason Brand

    04:44 Balancing Family and Business

    07:02 Overcoming Early Business Challenges

    09:40 Creative Process and Inspirations

    16:53 Navigating the Fashion Industry

    27:45 Sustainability and Timeless Fashion

    30:44 The Journey of Building a Fashion Business

    31:00 Overcoming Challenges and Scaling the Business

    33:31 The Complexities of Garment Production

    36:11 Advice for Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs

    43:32 Reflecting on Success and Resilience

    49:52 The Importance of Health and Fitness

    51:20 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations

    53:42 Gratitude and Final Thoughts

     

    Anna’s 3,2,1:

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           My pattern cutting table – it felt like huge investment at the time, but has been worth every penny.

    2.          The right people, they are worth their weight in gold and if I could pay them more, I would.

    3.          My commitment to health and fitness.  I go to lots of exercise classes and have recently invested in a massage every six weeks or so – it’s rejuvenation for my soul!


    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           I wish I had been able to invest more money at the front end of my business, it just never occurred to me that it would help so much. 

    2.          Someone to run the business alongside me, I could really do with that logical analytical brain to back my creativity. 

      

    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           Jonathan Glynn-Smith, he’s an amazing photographer, friend and collaborator www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    56 min
  • EP3: Sasha Wilkins, Broadcaster, Journalist, Antiques Dealer and Founder of Found by Sasha Wilkins

    Sasha Wilkins: From Fashion Journalism to Found by Sasha Wilkins

     In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo speaks with Sasha Wilkins, a renowned journalist, broadcaster, author, and founder of Found by Sasha Wilkins, an antiques business specialising in 19th-century English ceramics. Sasha discusses her diverse career, from her pioneering days of blogging with Liberty London Girl to her latest venture in antiques. She shares her journey with dyspraxia and ADHD, the importance of curiosity, and how she has adapted her skills across various industries. The conversation delves into the challenges of starting a business in midlife, the value of personal branding in social media, and the practical aspects of operating an antiques business, including invaluable tips for new entrepreneurs.

    00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:15 Introducing Sasha Wilkins: A Multifaceted Career

    02:26 Sasha's Neurodivergence and Its Impact

    03:11 Journey into Journalism and Broadcasting

    05:20 The Birth of Liberty London Girl

    10:46 Transition to Instagram and Found

    13:58 Bootstrapping and Business Advice

    21:38 The Importance of Mentorship and Learning

    26:47 The Magic of Found and the Barn

    29:03 Leveraging Social Media for Business

    32:25 The Reality of Social Media Standards

    33:16 Repurposing Content for Growth

    33:55 Challenges of Running a Business

    35:03 Balancing Work and Personal Life

    36:12 Building a Business from Scratch

    38:34 The Importance of Self-Belief

    41:13 Navigating Career Transitions

    45:16 The Power of Research and Planning

    51:56 Investing in Health and Business

    56:33 Family Support and Future Plans

    59:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

     

    Sasha’s 3,2,1:

     3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           Business card/ postcard hybrid - doubles as both, saves money and means I can write notes on them for customers

    2.          My physical health – I have a trainer once a week and see the osteopath once a month, I need to be fit for what I do, and injury would hold me back

    3.          My barn – not only is it a beautiful backdrop to my antiques, but 40% of my business is by private appointment

    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           I would have done more research about my industry before I started the business, but timing was not on my side

    2.          I would have created more personal content around my brand right from the beginning  

    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           Lisa from the Miserden Estate who I wrote to in Feb 2021 and who got back to me in Sept 2021 with the offer of my barn – she saved my sanity! Thank you!

     
    Found by Sasha Wilkins, Unit two, Manor Farm, Winstone, in the Cotswolds between Cirencester and Cheltenham, by appointment only 
    www.foundbysashawilkins.co.uk
    Instagram @foundbysashawilkins
    YouTube https://youtube.com/@foundbysashawilninsantiques

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    1 hr
  • EP2: Juliet Fallowfield, PR & Podcast Consultant and Founder of Fallowfield & Mason

    Starting Over: A Midlife Entrepreneur's Journey with Juliet Fallowfield

    In this episode, Jo interviews Juliet Fallowfield, a seasoned PR professional and podcaster with over 25 years of experience with luxury brands like Burberry, Chanel, and De Beers. Juliet shares her transition from a corporate career to founding her own PR and podcast consultancy, Fallowfield and Mason, in 2020 amidst personal and professional upheaval. They discuss the advantages of starting a business in midlife, the importance of self-knowledge and financial planning, and the unique challenges faced by midlife entrepreneurs. Juliet elaborates on how her podcast 'How to Start Up' was born out of her desire to help others by sharing her journey and the wisdom she garnered from numerous entrepreneurial friends.

     

    00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:23 Juliet Fallowfield's Career Journey

    02:40 The Turning Point: Personal and Professional Challenges

    04:32 Starting a Business During a Pandemic

    06:43 Launching the 'How to Start Up' Podcast

    08:39 The Advantages and Challenges of Midlife Entrepreneurship

    12:47 PR and Podcasting Services at Fallowfield and Mason

    15:04 The Importance of Storytelling in Business

    18:40 Navigating Sales and Client Relationships

    22:01 The Importance of Asking for Help

    22:37 Embracing Midlife Challenges and Blessings

    24:18 Recognising Your Value and Pricing Strategies

    26:06 The Power of Energy and Pro Bono Work

    28:31 Navigating Business Growth and Economic Challenges

    31:08 Self-Discovery and Financial Planning

    36:21 Burnout and the Feather-Brick-Truck Theory

    38:25 Gratitude and Lessons from Redundancy

    40:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

     

    Juliet’s 3,2,1:

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           Counselling to support her through grief and loss

    2.          The Team who are fantastic and inspire her every day

    3.          Flights, she loves travel


    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           Looked after myself and not burnt out

    2.          listened to myself and my body more, prioritised self-care


    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           The Graff’s for making me redundant, without which I wouldn’t be here with you today. 

    Fallowfield and Mason PR and Podcasting Consultancy www.fallowfieldmason.com
    Instagram @fallowfieldmason
    Juliet's podcast is called 'How to Start Up' listen wherever you get your podcasts

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    42 min
  • EP1: Jennifer Mo, Nutritional Formulations Expert and Co-Founder of Pura Collagen

    Building a Nutritional Brand: Jennifer Mo on the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    In this episode, Jo interviews Jennifer Mo, a nutritional formulations expert and co-founder of the award-winning brand Pura Collagen. Jennifer shares her extensive background in sports nutrition, anatomy, and bioscience, highlighting her journey from a college athlete to a professional working with elite athletes and specialized military personnel. She discusses the inception and growth of Pura Collagen, a brand focused on scientifically formulated collagen supplements for skin, hair, nails, and joint health. Jennifer's story emphasises the challenges and triumphs of building a business in midlife, including the importance of PR, regulatory compliance, and investing in your team. The conversation also explores the personal sacrifices and resilience required to succeed as an entrepreneur, while touching on themes like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, work-life balance, and the value of mentorship.

     

    00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast

    00:14 Meet Jennifer Mo: From Sports Nutrition to Pura Collagen

    01:39 Jennifer's Journey: From Aspiring Doctor to Nutritional Expert

    03:06 The Science Behind Supplements: Jennifer's Early Fascination

    06:19 From Retail to Military: Jennifer's Career Evolution

    10:23 Corporate Challenges and Personal Growth

    13:17 The Pandemic Pivot: Birth of Pura Collagen

    14:32 Building Pura Collagen: From Kitchen Experiments to Market

    23:08 Launching Pura Collagen: Overcoming Initial Hurdles

    26:42 Pura Collagen's Unique Approach and Market Strategy

    29:15 Understanding Product and Packaging

    29:48 Addressing Menopause with Innovative Products

    33:04 Challenges of Starting a Business in Midlife

    34:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Career Choices

    37:01 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Fear

    38:37 The Importance of Mentorship and Team Building

    43:36 Navigating Financial Challenges and Growth

    44:52 Joining Forces with a Larger Brand

    46:39 Reflections on the Entrepreneurial Journey

    48:10 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts

     
    Jennifer’s 3,2,1:

    3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny:

    1.           PR – to help get cut through in a crowded industry

    2.          Legal experts to look at labelling and packaging information

    3.          Team – especially investing relationships outside of the workplace 

    2 things you wish you’d done differently:

    1.           Had a better understanding of equity and fund raising 

    2.          Not allowed friends and family to invest – too much pressure, you don’t want to let them down.

    1 person you’d like to thank:

    1.           CEO, 24 Hr Fitness, Mark Mastrov for understanding how to support women, for guidance and access to his knowledge.  Also, Barry De Vilbiss, VP Retail at the same time – taught me about retail and shifting product.   

    Pura Collagen www.puracollagen.co.uk

    Instagram @puracollagen @vectorconsumer 

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded on location at Eight Works Podcast Studios, Eight Moorgate, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    Email [email protected] 

    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    1 hr
  • Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur

    This is a show that’s all about building a business in midlife. At a time when many of us will be living into our 100s and possibly working into our 80s, career pivoting in midlife is not going to be just a trend, it will become a necessity. Each episode Jo will be sitting down with a different business owner to explore their personal stories and learn from their business journeys. 

    Inspired by her coaching practice, the goal is to have authentic and inspiring conversations that will motivate more people to find the courage and confidence to back themselves and become a Midlife Entrepreneur. 


    Support the show

    Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025.
    Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BX
    For bookings: [email protected]

    Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert in career transformation and change.

    Instagram @jojoglynnsmith and @themidlifeentrepreneur

    Contact: [email protected]
    www.joglynnsmith.com

    MUSIC CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.io
    PHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

    2 min

About The Midlife Entrepreneur

From the publisher's feed

The Midlife Entrepreneur is the podcast for women who are building businesses later in life. Hosted by Jo Glynn-Smith, career transitions expert, coach and entrepreneur, who works with founders…