Shownotes: Turning Criticism into Growth – Reinvention Diaries

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Amie-Leigh Minshull, CEO & Founder of Shh! PR

Episode Highlights:

• Catch-up: Michelle and Nicola share updates on recent travels, networking, and self-care (including spa days and Christmas dinners).
• The importance of reviews and feedback in business, and how both hosts handle receiving (or not receiving) reviews.
• Introduction of guest Amie-Leigh, who specialises in PR for female entrepreneurs.
• Discussion on the emotional impact of criticism and negative reviews, especially for women in business.
• Amie-Leigh’s advice on handling criticism:
  • Don’t react immediately—pause and reflect before responding.
  • Gather facts before replying to negative feedback.
  • Respond publicly with empathy and a willingness to resolve the issue, then move the conversation offline if possible.
  • Use apologies genuinely; avoid defensive responses.
  • Learn from criticism—use it as an opportunity to improve services or products.
• Gender differences in responding to criticism: women often internalize feedback more deeply than men.
• Examples of brands turning criticism into positive PR (e.g., KFC’s chicken shortage campaign, Aldi’s marketing).
• The value of a “win wall” to remind yourself of positive feedback and achievements.
• The importance of supportive networks and cheerleaders, especially for women entrepreneurs.
• Reflections on women’s networking groups and the supportive, collaborative environment they foster.
• Final advice: Embrace criticism as a tool for growth, not a reason to shrink back.

Connect with Amie-Leigh:

• LinkedIn: Amie-Leigh Minshull
• Company: Shh! PR (www.shhpr.co.uk)
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast

Contact the Podcast:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com
• Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

Listener Questions:

• Amie-Leigh’s favourite colour: Yellow
• Recent act of kindness: Reaching out to someone in need at a concert

Next Episode: Tune in next Wednesday for more stories and strategies on reinvention and growth!

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola

Summary: In this episode, Michelle and Nicola dive into the theme of "feeling the fear and doing it anyway." They share personal stories about overcoming self-doubt, stepping outside comfort zones, and the importance of embracing fear as a sign of growth. The conversation is filled with humor, relatable anecdotes, and practical advice for women navigating reinvention and rediscovery.

Key Topics Covered:

• Weekend catch-up: downtime, disaster movies, and family quirks
• The importance of wearing the right bra and how it affects confidence
• Social outings, shopping adventures, and the realities of high heels
• The main topic: "Feel the fear and do it anyway"
  • Why fear is a sign of growth, not failure
  • How fear of judgment, failure, and even success can hold us back
  • The role of comfort zones and habitual behavior
  • Personal experiences with clients facing their own fears (e.g., being photographed, trying new styles)
  • The power of trusting the process and embracing change
  • Dealing with naysayers and building resilience
  • The universe sending signs and opportunities for reinvention
• Random acts of kindness and the joy of giving back
• Creating a workspace that inspires productivity
• Encouragement to listeners: embrace fear, take action, and share your own stories

Call to Action:

• Share your own "feel the fear and do it anyway" stories by emailing [email protected]
• Follow the podcast on Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Like, subscribe, and leave a five-star rating to support the show

Closing: Michelle and Nicola wrap up with a message of empowerment: if you’re feeling scared, it’s a sign you’re growing. Don’t squash the fear—embrace it, move towards it, and let it fuel your reinvention journey.

Social links: Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com. @mrsstylewright, Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk, @nicolaaucklandphotography

Episode Summary: In this episode of The Reinvention Diaries, hosts Michelle and Nicola welcome Tana MacPherson-Smith—coach, therapist, trainer, motivational speaker, and author of the Monkey Wisdom books. Tana shares her powerful story of accidental reinvention, from her career as a teacher to her journey through trauma, mental health challenges, and ultimately, transformation into a passionate advocate for children’s mental health and prevention.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Tana’s background as a teacher and her transition to mental health advocacy.
• The pivotal moment that changed her life: a mental health crisis and recovery.
• The concept of “Monkey Wisdom” and how childhood experiences shape our beliefs and emotional resilience.
• The importance of prevention in mental health, starting from conception.
• Intergenerational trauma and the impact of early life experiences.
• Tana’s personal battles with anxiety, ADHD, and overcoming limiting beliefs.
• Advice for those facing unplanned life changes and how to find new purpose.
• The power of human connection, kindness, and meaningful conversations with strangers.
• Tana’s ongoing mission to educate parents, teachers, and children about emotional health.

Memorable Quotes:

• “Every single thing that we do around kids, whoever you are, is recorded and has a response on them.”
• “If I can do something with all of that and change lives for other people, then that’s what I’ve got to do.”
• “It’s about finding something in your heart that really interests you—that’s a really good starting point.”

Guest Info:

• Website: taramcpherson.com
• LinkedIn: Tana MacPherson-Smith
• Facebook: Clear Minds

Hosts:

• Michelle Wright (LinkedIn: Michelle Wright)
• www.mrsstylewright.com
• Nicola Auckland (LinkedIn: Nicola Auckland)
• www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

Contact & Socials:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @reinventiondiariespodcast

Call to Action: If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with friends. Reach out to Tana or the hosts via the links above if you’d like to connect or share your own story of reinvention.

Reinvention Diaries: Chats on Change and Digital Diet

Episode Summary: In this episode, Michelle and Nicola catch up after a holiday, sharing stories about travel mishaps, early Christmas parties, and the joys of random acts of kindness. The main discussion centers on the concept of a "digital diet"—how our consumption of digital content and social media impacts our mindset, confidence, and well-being.

Key Topics:

• The importance of taking breaks from screens and social media.
• How a "digital diet" can create more mental clarity and reduce negative self-comparison.
• The fine line between inspiration and imposter syndrome on social platforms.
• Strategies for curating your digital environment: muting, unfollowing, and taking intentional breaks.
• The impact of curated online personas and the dangers of comparing your journey to others' highlight reels.
• Personal stories about family, kindness, and the little things that brighten our days.

Actionable Takeaways:

• Audit your digital diet: Unfollow or mute accounts that drain your energy or confidence.
• Seek out content and people who inspire and motivate you.
• Remember that social media often shows only the best moments—don’t compare your beginning to someone else’s middle.
• Practice random acts of kindness, both online and offline.
• Reach out and share your own stories of reinvention and kindness with the hosts!

Connect with Us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk
• mrsstylewright.com

Don’t forget to follow, subscribe, and leave a five-star review!

Welcome to the Reinvention Diary! In this episode, Michelle and Nicola dive into the realities of reinvention, rediscovery, and regaining confidence as women. They share personal stories, discuss the challenges of balancing work and life, and reflect on the importance of self-care and community.

Topics Discussed:

• Catching up: Weekend getaways, birthday celebrations, and the changing dynamics of social drinking.
• The art of dressing for events: When to go all out and when to blend in.
• Christmas is coming: Debates over chocolates, early holiday music, and family traditions.
• Home life: The great slippers vs. shoes debate for dinner parties, and the acceptability of pajamas in public.
• Meal planning: From spreadsheets to smart speakers, and using AI for weekly shopping lists.
• Working in vs. on your business: The struggle to balance client work, marketing, and personal development.
• Courses and upskilling: Excel, blogging, and automating business processes.
• Health and self-care: Smear tests, breast checks, and the importance of regular screenings.
• Random acts of kindness and “what’s rocked your world” this week: Camera holsters, rebounders, and more.

Listener Questions:

• Is it acceptable to go out in public in your pajamas?
• Do you sit down at a set time each week to do your shopping list and meal plan?

Calls to Action:

• Share your thoughts on Instagram: How acceptable is it to go out in pajamas?
• Send in your questions for future episodes—anything about business, life, or what rocks your world!
• Subscribe, rate, and review the podcast.
• Email: [email protected]
• Follow on Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast

Thank you for listening! Join the conversation and be part of our community of women rising together.

If you'd like to know more about us check out our websites:

www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk

www.mrsstylewright.com

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Yvette Martin, Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist for Breast

Episode Summary

In this episode, Michelle and Nicola are joined by Yvette Martin, a breast cancer specialist nurse with over 20 years of experience in the NHS. Yvette shares her journey into nursing, her dual role in healthcare and business, and provides practical advice for women navigating breast health, diagnosis, and recovery.

Key Topics Discussed

• The importance of regular breast checks and what to look for beyond lumps (skin changes, nipple discharge, changes in shape, etc.).
• The emotional impact of diagnosis and the support role of Clinical Nurse Specialists (CNS).
• What to expect after a breast cancer diagnosis: treatment pathways, support systems, and the role of the CNS as a key worker.
• Survival rates and positive outcomes: Over 50% increase in survival in the last 50 years; 9 out of 10 women live 5+ years post-diagnosis.
• The prevalence of breast cancer (1 in 7 women) and the importance of screening, especially for those with family history.
• Support for friends and family: how to communicate, offer help, and understand the patient’s needs.
• Post-treatment mental health: programs and resources for ongoing support, including the Moving Forward program and Pilates classes.
• Addressing misconceptions about hereditary risk and male breast cancer.
• Personal stories and random acts of kindness.

Resources & Links

• Breast Cancer Now – Comprehensive information and support for breast cancer and benign breast disease.
• Macmillan Cancer Support – Support for patients and families.
• NHS Breast Cancer Information – Official guidance and resources.
• Elevate Design and Print – Yvette’s print business.

Contact & Social

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn: Elevate Design and Print
• Michelle - www.mrsstylewright.com
• Nicola - www.nicolaaucklandphotography.com

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola

Episode Highlights:

• The realities and humor of getting older (varifocals, aging, and self-acceptance)
• Coping with autumn bugs and busy schedules
• Discovering and working within your "zone of genius"
• Delegating tasks and the value of virtual assistants
• The importance of collaboration and skill-swapping with friends
• Recognizing your strengths and not undervaluing your expertise
• The challenge of niching down your business and finding your ideal client
• Marketing, motivation, and the ups and downs of running a business
• Random acts of kindness and the little things that make a difference
• TV talk: Celebrity Traitors and Claudia’s outfits
• How to connect with the hosts and join the community

Key Takeaways:

• Embrace your strengths and delegate what doesn’t light you up.
• Don’t assume others find your skills as easy as you do—charge for your expertise!
• Collaboration and skill-swapping can be a great way to get things done on a budget.
• It’s okay to niche down and focus on what makes you happiest in your work.
• Small acts of kindness can have a big impact.

Connect with Us:

• Email: [email protected]
• Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Michelle: @Mrs.StyleWright
• Nicola: @NicolaAucklandPhotography

Listener Call to Action:

• Share your own "zone of genius" stories or how you’ve organized your life to focus on what you love—email or DM us!
• Join us on Instagram for behind-the-scenes content and updates

Reinvention, Bras, and Breast Prostheses Talk

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Janice (Janice Rose Lingerie)

Episode Overview

• The hosts discuss reinvention, confidence, and women's health.
• Special focus on breast cancer awareness, post-surgery bras, and breast prostheses.
• Guest Janice shares her journey from a lumpectomy at 19, a long career at Marks & Spencer, and founding her own lingerie boutique specializing in post-surgery fittings.

Key Topics

• The importance of proper bra fitting at all stages of life.
• How breast shape and size can change due to age, surgery, weight changes, and more.
• The lack of information and support for women post-surgery.
• Types of post-surgery bras and prostheses, including options for comfort, style, and specific needs.
• The significance of Cooper’s Ligaments and breast support.
• Janice’s campaign for a prosthesis voucher scheme, similar to NHS wig vouchers.
• Advice for women preparing for breast surgery and recovery.
• The emotional and practical impact of well-fitted lingerie.

Practical Tips

• Always get professionally fitted for bras, especially after surgery or body changes.
• Post-surgery bras should be soft, front-fastening, and wire-free.
• Fit bras to the larger breast if there is a size difference.
• There are many types of prostheses, including lightweight, swimming, and knitted options.
• Check with your hospital or specialist for the best post-surgery bra and prosthesis options.

Resources & Contacts

• Janice Rose Lingerie: www.janiceroselaundry.co.uk
• Instagram: @janiceroselaundry
• Facebook: Janice Rose Laundry
• Information sheets and appointment booking available on the website.

How to Support the Show

• Follow on Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast
• Leave a review or star rating to help others find the podcast.
• Email questions or stories: [email protected]

Get to Know Your Hosts

Nicola is a Brand Photographer specialising in making women visible. Find her at www.nicolaaucklandphotography.co.uk, and Michelle is a Personal Stylist & Colour Analysis who wants every woman to feel amazing in what you're wearing. Find her at www.mrsstylewright.com

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Lynda Croome, Chartered Financial Planner & Breast Cancer Survivor

Episode Overview:

• Michelle and Nicola open with a lighthearted catch-up about their weekends, social events, and wardrobe changes.
• The theme for the month is Breast Cancer Awareness, with a focus on sharing stories and encouraging regular self-checks.

Main Guest Segment:

• Introduction to Lynda Croome, who shares her journey as a two-time breast cancer survivor and her career as an independent financial advisor.
• Lynda discusses her background, how she entered financial services, and the importance of financial planning, especially for self-employed women.
• The conversation covers the challenges of facing illness as a self-employed single parent, and how critical illness insurance helped her during treatment.

Breast Cancer Stories & Lessons:

• Lynda recounts both her diagnoses (2012 and 2023/24), the differences in treatment, and the importance of self-advocacy in healthcare.
• She describes symptoms to watch for, the process of diagnosis and treatment, and the emotional and physical impact of cancer and menopause.
• The importance of support networks, both personal and professional, is highlighted, as well as the value of organizations like Maggie’s.

Key Takeaways:

• Regular self-checks and early action are vital—don’t let fear delay seeing a doctor.
• Be your own advocate in medical settings; bring a support person if possible.
• Financial planning and insurance can provide crucial support during health crises.
• Support networks and kindness, even from strangers, make a difference.

Resources & Contacts:

- Lynda Croome: [email protected] | 07904 222864 | LinkedIn & Facebook

• Maggie’s Nottingham: Open to anyone affected by cancer in the East Midlands (Google “Mount Maggie’s Nottingham”)
• Contact the show: [Podcast email provided in episode]
• Instagram: @reinventiondiariespodcast

Closing:

• The hosts thank Lynda for her openness and support, and encourage listeners to reach out with their own stories or questions.

Topics Covered:

• Weekend catch-up and personal anecdotes
• Breast cancer awareness and self-checks
• Lynda’s professional journey and financial advice
• Navigating illness, treatment, and recovery
• The power of support networks and advocacy
• Acts of kindness and community

Podcast Title: From Surviving to Thriving: Jane Cook’s Story

Hosts: Michelle & Nicola Guest: Jayne Cooke (Business owner, hat designer, breast cancer survivor)

Episode Summary: In this episode, Michelle and Nicola talk with Jayne Cooke about her journey from breast cancer diagnosis to thriving as a business owner and advocate. Jayne shares her story of early diagnosis, treatment, and the challenges of recovery, including the impact on her identity and confidence. She discusses her businesses—Trusted Employment Solutions and Arabella Hats—and how creativity and resilience helped her reinvent herself. The conversation also covers genetic testing, family legacy, and the importance of self-checks and awareness.

Key Topics & Highlights:

• Jayne’s background: payroll business and eco-friendly hat design (Arabella Hats)
• Early breast cancer diagnosis at age 35, treatment journey, and recurrence
• The emotional and physical impact of mastectomy and delayed reconstruction
• BRCA2 gene mutation: family history, genetic testing, and implications for her children
• Jayne’s daughter’s preventative double mastectomy and IVF journey to eliminate the gene
• The role of COVID-19 lockdown in Jane’s personal and professional reinvention
• Confidence, identity, and the power of fashion and creativity in recovery
• Jayne’s advocacy and fundraising for breast cancer awareness
• Advice for self-checks: “Know what’s normal for you,” resources like CoppaFeel and online guides
• The importance of support, fast-track treatment, and not being afraid to seek help

Notable Quotes:

• “If something takes even one day of your life, take two back for you.” (Joe Malone)
• “Once a survivor, always a survivor.”
• “You just get on with it because you’re in survival mode.”

Resources & Links:

• Arabella Hats: Facebook & Instagram @arabellahats
• Trusted Employment Solutions: www.trustedemployment.co.uk
• Breast cancer awareness resources: CoppaFeel, NHS, YouTube self-check guides
• Contact the podcast: [email protected] Instagram: @thereinventiondiariespodcast

Random Acts of Kindness: Jayne’s story includes rescuing a hedgehog and supporting others through advocacy and talks.

Closing: If you have questions for Jayne or want to share your story, reach out via email or Instagram. Stay aware, check yourself, and take time for what you love.