wo0 pod

"The system of networking has generally been made by men for men."

Hilary Lewis

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million, a movement lifting the voices of women who are done with playing small.

This week, Wendy sits down with Hillary Lewis, community builder, speaker, connector, former beauty entrepreneur turned finance rebel, to talk about what happens when you create the spaces you wish existed.

From running a salon at 22, to launching spa days for women in finance, founding networking groups, and now stepping into her new role as Community Manager of Digital Accountants Club, Hillary’s story is about building something better, not just for herself—but for every woman who's ever felt out of place at a 7am breakfast club full of suits.

• How Hillary went from running a beauty business to speaking at Accountex (twice!)
• Why “I don’t know what I’m doing” can be a superpower when you say it out loud
• Starting a business young, pivoting after kids, and never settling for the ‘default’ path
• Why so many women still feel like outsiders in male-dominated industries
• Creating events that actually work for women (hint: no 7am bacon butties required)
• How the Corporate Ladies Club grew from 30 to 130+ members, raising thousands for charity
• Making people feel seen, heard and welcomed—and why that’s more powerful than any business card

Hillary is a community-builder, event strategist, and speaker who has spent the last two decades helping women connect, collaborate and be seen. With a background in beauty, marketing, and finance, she now works as Community Manager for Digital Accountants Club, where she’s creating inclusive spaces that prioritise connection, confidence, and visibility. She’s also a founding member of the Corporate Ladies Club, an ever-growing women’s networking group.

• LinkedIn: Hillary Lewis
• Corporate Ladies Club: Find out more on LinkedIn

• Instagram: @wo0photography
• LinkedIn: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• Newsletter: Subscribe for updates

• Want to feel unstoppable in your photos and your business? Book a shoot with wo0
• Join the Female Five Million movement – because this rebellion needs your voice

Need help launching your podcast, strategy-first and fluff-free? Meet Buckers:

• Instagram: @decibelle_creative
• Website: decibellecreative.com

• Follow or subscribe wherever you get your podcasts
• Leave a review – it really does make a difference
• Share this episode with the women in your world who build, lead and lift others up

‘Don’t F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on wo0 pod is more than a podcast—it’s a platform for radical visibility.

• Instagram: @female.five.million
• Support the Kickstarter
• Pre-order the coffee table book
• Tell your story. Join the rebellion.

"Older victims of domestic abuse are completely invisible." – Carrie Bower

This episode is a powerful and emotional conversation with Carrie Bower, a campaigner, podcaster and domestic abuse specialist working to raise visibility for older women experiencing abuse. Carrie is the founder of Visible Later Lives and the voice behind the Let’s Get Visible podcast. Together, we unpack the silencing of older women, the reality of abuse in later life, and what it really means to hold space for someone who has never felt safe enough to speak.

Carrie’s stories will stop you in your tracks but there are plenty of laughs and uplifting moments to carry you through this emotional episode.

• What domestic abuse in later life really looks like—and why it’s so often missed
• Why the risk of being killed increases when a woman leaves an abusive relationship
• The problem with headlines, the media, and which women get seen
• The silence around femicide of women over 50
• Real stories (names have been changed) of women Carrie has worked with, like ‘Grace’ and ‘Blue Van Woman’
• What workplaces can do to help victims access support

Carrie Bower is a domestic abuse awareness trainer, storyteller, and the founder of Visible Later Lives, shining a light on abuse, coercion and control experienced by women in mid and later life. She’s the host of the Let’s Get Visible podcast and an outspoken advocate for ensuring all survivors are seen and heard, regardless of their age or gender. Carrie has an unwavering determination to change the narrative around domestic abuse at all stages of life.

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"When that weight was lifted, I suddenly realised I just have all this energy and time now for myself… I just felt like I could do anything." - Wendy Kriz Evans

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million - a movement that empowers women to say no to playing small and yes to showing up as their fullest, most fearless selves.

In this episode, Wendy is joined by actuary and artist, Wendy Kriz Evans. From breaking free of a toxic marriage to navigating male-dominated industries, Wendy shares how reclaiming her creativity and redefining her identity helped her learn to take up space - with the help of a pretty awesome orange jacket… 

• Walking away from a toxic marriage and what it feels like to stop anticipating someone else's needs and start listening to your own
• How patriarchy and expectation quietly shape women's career paths
• Why Wendy finally gave herself permission to pursue art alongside actuarial work
• The sheer joy of an oversized orange faux-fur jacket (and the awesome pre-loved and rental business she found it via - Neon Leon / @thisisneonleo 
• The invisible ways women shrink themselves—and how to take that space back
• 
  

Wendy Kriz Evans is a vibrant abstract artist based in East Anglia, whose work is infused with joy, colour, and personal reflection. After a 30-year career in the insurance industry as an actuary, Wendy has recently returned to her creative roots in 2024, using painting as a way to reconnect with herself during menopause. Her work draws inspiration from rural landscapes, seaside memories, and life’s emotional layers. Since reigniting her practice, she has exhibited in 11 galleries and will debut her first solo show in 2025.

• Website: https://wendykrizevans.com/
• Instagram: @wendykrizevans
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wendy-kriz-evans/

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"We really need to break the mould of what we see as a mindfulness teacher." – Amy Polly

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement born from rebellion and rooted in realness, to empower women to show up boldly and live without apology.

In this episode, Wendy is joined by Amy Polly; mindfulness teacher, TEDx speaker, former firefighter, and proud founder of the Funfulness movement. Amy shares her journey from burnout to boldness, the toxic dynamics she’s experienced in the workplace, and how her neurodivergence has become a source of inspiration for a mindfulness revolution.

Amy is here to tell us that where midnfulness is concerned, you get to do it your way; loudly, vibrantly, and in the brightest pink dress you own.

• Why mindfulness needs a makeover – how Funfulness is changing the game
• Creating safe spaces for neurodivergent minds (because joy is central to focus)
• The truth about being a woman in business – why it’s brilliant and brutal
• Being a business-owning single mum 
• Why your flow state might not look “zen” – but it’s still very bloody valid!

Amy is a mindfulness teacher, TEDx speaker, founder of the Funfulness movement, and all-round creative powerhouse. With a background in finance and emergency services, she now uses her platform to challenge the stereotypes around mindfulness, empower neurodivergent women, and create inclusive wellbeing practices rooted in joy.

• Website: amypolly.com
• Instagram: @thisisamypolly
• TEDx Talk: Watch Amy’s TEDx 

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"We know we've got to be assertive and tough and confident, but you don't want to be too assertive because it'll be called bossy. And you don't want to be too tough because then you'll be called a bitch." – Jeremy Stockdale

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement designed to smash outdated norms, shift the narrative, and build a future where women own their space without apology.

In this episode, Wendy sits down with Jeremy Stockdale, leadership expert and founder of YLead, for a refreshingly honest conversation about male privilege, allyship, toxic masculinity, and what it actually takes for men to show up differently.

This one’s for the men who want to do better, and the women who are tired of explaining why they should.

• Why “bossy” and “bitchy” are just code for powerful women
• Why women are over-mentored but under-sponsored (and what’s the difference?)
• How leadership and patriarchy are still rooted in outdated masculine norms
• The importance of male allies who educate themselves and take action
• How the patriarchy hurts men too 
• What actually is ‘toxic masculinity’?
• How Jeremy’s daughter (and her T-shirt) sparked a viral feminist LinkedIn movemen

Jeremy is the founder of YLead, a leadership consultancy focused on inclusive, purpose-driven leadership. After decades in the corporate world, Jeremy had an awakening following the murder of Sarah Everard. He committed to educating himself on gender inequality—and now advocates fiercely for a workplace (and a world) where leadership doesn’t require losing your humanity.

He’s also the man behind the viral “On Wednesdays, We Smash the Patriarchy” series on LinkedIn.

• LinkedIn: Jeremy Stockdale
• Website: ylead.co.uk

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"You’re like a lemon pip — you hang around until it’s almost too late, and then you shoot out under high pressure." – Vicky Quinn Fraser

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement that empowers women to show up as their full, messy, brilliant selves.

Today’s guest is the hilarious and unapologetically real Vicky Quinn Fraser: writer, author, book coach, and creative powerhouse behind the movement to help people write like they f*ing mean it. Vicky talks about embracing neurodiversity, overcoming creative perfectionism, what it really feels like to write (and live) authentically—and why being yourself isn’t just okay, it’s essential.

• Why “finding your voice” is bullsh*t – You already have a voice; it’s about daring to use it
• 
  
• How neurodiversity impacts creativity – And why ADHD, autism, and writing are a beautiful, chaotic mix
• 
  
• Getting stuck in self-doubt – How to stop second-guessing yourself and just start writing
• 
  
• The truth about book writing – Why writing a book (or anything) is more about honesty and authenticity than technique
• 
  
• What it’s like to mask constantly – And how exhausting it is to be "socially appropriate" as a neurodivergent woman
• 
  
• Why self-expression matters – Whether it’s pole dancing, giant yellow coats, or embracing a neurospicy brain.
• 
  

Vicky is a writer, author, book coach, and the founder of Moxie Books, where she helps people stop writing “like a stuffed shirt” and start writing like they actually mean it. She’s also a passionate advocate for neurodiversity, authenticity, creativity, and rebellious self-expression.

• Website: Moxie Books
• Instagram: @tinybeetlesteps
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickyquinnfraser/
• Newsletter: Notes in the Margin – Sign up via her website

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"I should be judged on what I’m doing in my work, not on whether I wear a West Ham shirt to the office." – Alice Hendy MBE

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement for women who are done dimming their light and playing by outdated rules.

In this episode, Wendy is joined by Alice Hendy MBE—cybersecurity expert, West Ham superfan, and the powerhouse behind Ripple (R;pple) Suicide Prevention, a piece of technology that has now intercepted over 70,000 crisis-level online searches and saved countless lives.

Alice shares how losing her brother Josh was that moment that rewrote her life, and why she built the tech she wished he’d had access to. We also dive into why women are still being judged for their clothes (and tattoos) and learn about Wendy’s - shall we say ‘interesting’ - ink… 

• How Alice turned personal tragedy into tech that saves lives – Building R;pple from her childhood bedroom
• What Alice, Wendy & Buckers have in a toastie – Are people really talking about toasties enough on podcasts? We think not… 
• Judgement around tattoos and appearance – The time Alice was told she “didn’t look like someone who should have tattoos”... ummm- what?
• Grief, mental health & surviving loss – What it really feels like to lose a sibling
• How men can show up as allies – A shout-out to the men backing Alice’s mission
• Football shirts as power wear – Why Alice’s West Ham shirt makes her feel part of something bigger

Alice is the founder of Ripple Suicide Prevention, a free browser extension that intercepts harmful searches and offers immediate support to those in crisis. She built Ripple after losing her brother Josh to suicide and has since received an MBE for her work. She’s also a full-time cybersecurity expert, relentless LinkedIn truth-teller, and unapologetic wearer of her beloved West Ham shirt collection.

• Ripple Suicide Prevention: www.ripplesuicideprevention.com
• 
  
• LinkedIn: Alice Hendy MBE
• 
  
• Honouring Josh’s Memory: Find out more about Josh, his life and the impact he had on those around him

• Samaritans (UK): Call 116 123 (free 24/7)
• 
  
• Papyrus HOPELINE247 (for young people): Call 0800 068 4141
• 
  
• Ripple Tech Download: Or search “Install Ripple”
• 
  
• More support options: An extensive list of support available, accessed via the Ripple platform

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"Do I stay here and die—whether by his hands or by my own—or do I walk away, run, sprint in the middle of the night with nothing?" – Katy Longhurst

Welcome back to wo0 pod, where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement created to empower women to speak up, own their space, and rebuild on their own terms.

In this episode, Wendy is joined by Katy Longhurst, the unapologetic tech innovator behind Ask Joan—a discreet safety app that allows women experiencing abuse to activate a silent panic alarm using everyday appliances like a kettle or hair straighteners.

Katy’s story is one of resilience, rage, and reinvention. After surviving years of domestic abuse, economic control, stalking, and coercive control, she used her background in IT engineering to create the tool she never had—and it’s already saving lives.

This episode is both heartbreaking and hopeful. If you’ve ever wondered what real strength looks like—this is it.

• How Ask Joan works – And why triggering a panic alarm through your kettle might just save your life
• Surviving coercive control and gaslighting – How Katy documented 169 police incidents and was still seen as a “nuisance”
• Why bones heal but psychological wounds don’t – The unseen scars of emotional abuse
• What economic abuse really looks like – How Katy’s ex racked up £45,000 debt in her name
• How a police officer changed everything – The role of DCI Oliver Tween in recognising the pattern and proving her case
• From isolation to invention – How Katy reclaimed her power through tech
• Why we need to stop saying ‘you’re so brave’ – And start holding systems accountable
• The importance of male allies – The men who backed Katy and helped bring Joan to life

Katy is a former IT engineer and founder of Ask Joan, a safety app created for people experiencing domestic abuse. Her invention uses energy surge data from common household appliances to trigger silent alerts to emergency contacts or authorities. Katy is an outspoken advocate for recognising abuse in all its forms, and is working to change how society and systems respond.

• LinkedIn: Katy Longhurst
• Email: [email protected]
• 
  

If you are experiencing or have experienced abuse, help is available:

• Women’s Aid – www.womensaid.org.uk
• 
  
• Refuge – www.refuge.org.uk
• 
  
• Surviving Economic Abuse – www.survivingeconomicabuse.org
• 
  
• Rights of Women – www.rightsofwomen.org.uk
• 
  

If you are in immediate danger, please call 999.

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"If I’m not full of myself, then I’m empty. And emptiness is a very sad place to be as a human." – Sophie Lee

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement created to empower women to take control, show up fully, and stop shrinking to make others comfortable.

In this electrifying episode, Wendy is joined by the magnetic Sophie Lee—founder of Electric Peach Studio, champion of creative misfits, and unapologetic advocate for self-expression. From LinkedIn bans to sucking lemons (yes, really), this episode dives into the messy, joyful, and powerful reality of being fully yourself in life and business.

• Being full of yourself (and why that’s a good thing) – Why self-expression is power, not ego
• Why women police other women – And how we can stop seeing each other as competition
• Finding your voice as a founder – How to communicate your message with clarity, boldness, and joy
• What Sophie’s “Self-Expression Sessions” are really about – And how they’re changing lives city by city
• LinkedIn bans and the power of community – How Sophie used her influence to fight for Wendy’s platform
• Owning your story and your wardrobe – The power of fashion to express identity (hello cobalt velvet jumpsuit and gold boots!)
• Why joy matters more than strategy – And how rediscovering what lights you up is the ultimate business move

Sophie is the founder and director of Electric Peach Studio, a decentralised brand and marketing agency working with purpose-driven businesses, charities, and changemakers. She also runs The Self-Expression Sessions, a nationwide series of events championing human creativity and unapologetic self-expression. Sophie helps business owners find their voice, use it powerfully, and show up in a way that actually feels like them.

• Instagram: @electricpeachstudios
• LinkedIn: Sophie Lee
• Website: electricpeach.co.uk

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.

"I wish I’d known more about how important it is to be authentic and not be scared to be yourself." – Lois Bates-Stubbs

Welcome back to wo0 pod, the unapologetic space where women refuse to be told what to wear or how to run their businesses. Hosted by Wendy Gannon (aka wo0), this podcast is part of Female Five Million—a movement dedicated to empowering women to take control, own their space, and push back against the systems that seek to silence them.

In this episode, Wendy is joined by Lois Bates-Stubbs, a virtual assistant turned business owner who left behind a series of toxic relationships to build a life and career on her own terms. Lois shares her deeply personal journey of navigating emotional and financial abuse, losing herself in the process, and ultimately finding the confidence to rebuild and thrive.

• Recognising toxic relationships – How emotional abuse often goes unnoticed until it’s too late
• The slow erosion of self-worth – Why women stay in relationships that break them down
• From control to confidence – The moment Lois decided to walk away and rebuild her life
• Money, self-belief, and breaking free – How financial control can keep women trapped in toxic cycles
• Reclaiming your identity – Why style, self-care, and small acts of rebellion can be life-changing
• The power of business ownership – How Lois built a thriving business from nothing, and why she’s never looking back
• Authenticity in entrepreneurship – Why being yourself is the key to success (and how Lois learned this the hard way)

Lois is the founder of growing virtual assistant agency LBS Virtual Services, and a key player in Female Five Million. After years of self-doubt, financial struggles, and toxic relationships, Lois embarked on an epic journey of self-discovery and confidence, and built a successful business helping other entrepreneurs stay organised and scale. Now, full of the joys of her new found confidence (and a very special Scamp & Dude dress!) she’s stepping into public speaking and podcasting, using her platform to help other women find their power.

*The mini series featuring Female Five Million contributors mentioned in today's episode is part of Carrie Bowers' 'Let's Get Visible' Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/5Feq3Mz44VwoEPL5zfTQqZ?si=4c78723242034c7e

• LinkedIn: Lois Bates-Stubbs
• Instagram: @lbs_virtual_services
• Website: https://lbsvirtualservices.co.uk/ 
• Email: [email protected] 

If anything in this episode resonated with you, or you need support, these organisations can help:

• Women's Aid – www.womensaid.org.uk
• Refuge (Domestic Abuse Support) – www.refuge.org.uk
• Surviving Economic Abuse – www.survivingeconomicabuse.org
• Mind (Mental Health Support) – www.mind.org.uk

Connect with wo0:

• wo0 on Linkedin: Wendy (wo0) Gannon
• wo0 on the ‘gram: @wo0photography
• Subscribe to newsletter

Work with wo0:

• About wo0
• Want a photoshoot? Book a chat 

This is a Decibelle Creative original podcast 

• Need some support to *actually* launch that podcast? Meet Buckers… /  Linkedin: Annabelle (Buckers) Buckland
• Instagram: @decibelle_creative / Linkedin: Decibelle Creative

How To Support This Podcast

Imagine missing an episode of this podcast because you haven’t subscribed?! Don’t do it to yourself… 

🎧 Hit ‘Follow’ or ‘Subscribe’ so you never miss an episode— tell the algorithm this podcast deserves to be heard!

⭐ Leave a rating & review to boost the show's ranking and help others discover it. We love to hear what resonates with you and your favourite episode highlights. 

📢 Share this episode with friends, colleagues, or on social media—word of mouth is one of the most powerful tools for independent podcasters!

A quick word from the host & producer…

“We get it - podcasters bang on about subscribing, ratings and reviews all the time. But why bother? Well - because it genuinely makes a HUGE difference to shows like ours - shows that have been made with unbelievable amounts of love, intention and hard work, usually without the help of big advertising budgets… 

Podcast platforms use algorithms to recommend shows to new listeners, meaning the more people who follow, rate, and review a podcast, the more likely it is to be featured in search results, charts, and recommendation lists. 

This all means that YOU have the power to help more people discover this podcast, and help passionate, independent podcasters like us continue doing what we love, with just a few simple clicks. More people who might really need to hear these important conversations…

THANK YOU SO MUCH from the bottom of our hearts for listening and supporting this podcast.” - wo0 & Buckers.

Join the Female Five Million Movement

‘Dont F**king Tell Me What To Wear Or How To Run My Business’ on the wo0 pod is more than just a podcast—it’s part of a movement… 

Follow Female Five Million and get involved in the movement:

1. Search ‘Female Five Million’ on Linkedin
2. Instagram: @female.five.million
3. Follow & support the project on Kickstarter
4. Buy the Female Five Million Coffee Table Book! The second edition is in production and will be available to pre-order soon - make sure you’re subscribed to the wo0 Photography newsletter for updates!

Female Five Million is an unapologetic celebration of women who’ve faced male to female abuse, broken free, and are now thriving on their own terms. This is a story of empowerment and resilience against abuse and toxicity from men, in business and beyond. This is a multi-faceted project made up of two empowering photoshoots, conversations, research, exhibitions, art and a beautiful coffee table book. 

“This project is deeply personal to me because I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to suffer domestic, sexual, financial, mental abuse and general misogyny in the workplace and my private life. I’ve been there but I’ve also found the strength to rise above and overcome it. 

By speaking openly about my experiences, I’ve met so many incredible women who’ve faced similar challenges, yet they’ve come out the other side stronger, smarter, (more hilarious) and more determined than ever. 

We're not just survivors, we're f*cking queens, and our stories deserve to be told.” - Wendy Gannon, Female Five Million Founder.