My Kind of Business

Making it Work - Faye Newman on Building a Design Business, Podcasting & Self Belief

In this thirteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Faye Newman – founder of Faye Newman Design, a kitchen and bedroom design studio and host of the Love Your Kitchen podcast.
Faye shares her refreshingly honest journey from childhood dreams of becoming a plumber to building a thriving design business and podcast — despite never imagining self-employment would be part of her story.
With over eight years of industry experience and more than three as a business owner, Faye reflects on how a neighbour’s kitchen project unexpectedly set her career in motion. She opens up about the mindset shifts that helped her move from employment to entrepreneurship, the crucial role of her support network, and the lessons she’s learned along the way — from pricing confidently to embracing visibility.
We talk about the importance of taking risks, navigating anxiety, and trusting that you’ll be okay — even when things feel uncertain. Faye also shares the pride she felt securing a podcast sponsor before launching, and how her show now plays a key part in her business growth and creative expression.
Whether you’re at the start of your business journey or evolving your next chapter, this conversation is a down-to-earth reminder that building a business takes courage, support, and a willingness to put yourself out there.
Episode Timestamps00:00 – From Childhood Dreams to Career Paths02:56 – Navigating the Kitchen Industry06:13 – The Journey to Entrepreneurship09:04 – Overcoming Initial Challenges12:11 – Current Business Landscape and Growth15:01 – Moments of Pride and Achievement18:01 – Mindset and Risk in Business18:38 – Navigating Anxiety and Embracing Risks19:35 – The Joys of Business Ownership22:39 – Facing Challenges in Entrepreneurship28:21 – Support Systems During Tough Times33:57 – Key Advice for Aspiring Business Owners
What to Expect
✦ An unexpected path into the world of kitchen design✦ The mindset shifts needed to go from employee to business owner✦ Why a support network can make all the difference✦ Learning to price confidently and value your work✦ How podcasting supports connection and business growth✦ Honest advice for anyone considering self-employment
Connect with FayeInstagram: @fayenewmandesignTikTok: @loveyourkitchenpodcastWebsite: fayenewmandesign.comJoin her newsletter: Subscribe here
Connect with Alex📅 Book a free Business Connection Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching💬 Facebook Group: Business Connection Community🔗 LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy🌐 Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Beyond the Career Ladder; Creating a Life on Your Terms with Cultural Expert Latifa Aarab

In this twelfth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Latifa Aarab – a leadership coach, cultural intelligence expert, and founder of Compatible.
With roots in France, Morocco and the UK, and a career that’s taken her across four continents, Latifa shares how her multicultural upbringing and 17 years in the financial industry led her to the work she does today: helping leaders navigate cultural differences to build more connected, collaborative teams.
This episode is a deep and refreshing look at the realities of entrepreneurship — from leaving the safety of a corporate role to starting a purpose-led business grounded in experience, intuition and personal growth.
We talk about redefining success, the importance of financial security when making a leap, and how nature, mindset and community support your capacity to lead and grow. We also touch on fears around public speaking and hosting events — and why doing the thing that scares you is often the best teacher.
Whether you're a few steps into your business or still sitting with the idea, this is an honest, human reminder that the journey isn’t linear — and that your experiences are your greatest assets.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Cultural Roots and Early Aspirations02:59 – Transitioning from Finance to Entrepreneurship05:56 – Navigating the Challenges of Intuition and Fear09:01 – Redefining Success and Life Experiences11:46 – The Journey of Personal Growth15:06 – Finding Balance in Business and Life18:03 – The Role of Nature in Mental Clarity21:04 – Overcoming Social Challenges in Business23:56 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs26:55 – Defining My Kind of Business
What to Expect
✦ An honest account of leaving corporate life✦ How intuition and personal growth support entrepreneurship✦ Redefining success beyond financial achievement✦ Cultural intelligence and leading global teams✦ Encouragement to stretch your comfort zone, especially in public speaking✦ Why financial readiness matters more than hustle
Connect with Latifa
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/compatibleofficial/@latifa_aarabLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/latifaaarabcompatible/ Website: https://compatibleofficial.com/ 
Connect with Alex
Book a free Business Connection session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingFacebook Group: Business Connection CommunityLinkedIn: Alex McCarthyWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

The Truth About Success (and Why It’s Not What You Think)

In this eleventh episode of My Kind of Business, Alex returns for a solo episode to reflect on a question we don’t ask ourselves often enough — what does success really mean to you?
We’re surrounded by messages that tie success to income, productivity and recognition. But when we stop and tune in, success can look and feel completely different — softer, slower, more aligned with our values and wellbeing.
In this honest episode, Alex explores how redefining success can bring more fulfilment, self-trust and joy into both life and business. From letting go of societal expectations to honouring the small wins, this is an invitation to create your own version of success — one that actually feels good.
Whether you're rethinking your goals, navigating change, or just feeling disconnected from the hustle, this episode offers a gentle nudge back to what truly matters.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Redefining Success: A Personal Journey05:06 – Aligning Success with Personal Values10:29 – Intangible Aspects of Success15:12 – Celebrating Small Wins19:17 – Self-Reflection and Authenticity
What to Expect
🌿 A grounding conversation on success beyond money or metrics💬 Honest reflection on aligning with your values💡 Permission to slow down, shift gears, and trust yourself🏆 The importance of small wins and how they build fulfilment🧠 Why mental wellbeing is a vital part of your definition of success
Connect with Alex
📅 Book a free Business Connection session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching💬 Facebook Group: Business Connection Community💼 LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedIn

The Healing Journey from Pharmacy to Holistic Therapy with Olivia Marshall-Bowater

In this tenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Liv, the soulful founder of Lunar Holistic Therapies based in Telford, Shropshire.
What began as a career in pharmacy gradually transformed into a holistic therapy business rooted in energy, rest and reconnection. Liv shares how grief, intuition and a deep desire to support others led her to create a space for healing through massage, reflexology, energy therapy, women’s circles and sound baths.
This is a raw and honest conversation about straddling two worlds — the scientific and the spiritual — and finding peace in creating a business that honours both. Liv speaks about protecting your energy, growing your confidence through community and trusting in the timing of your own journey.
Whether you’re pivoting careers or building something heart-first, Liv’s story is a powerful reminder that your business can be an extension of your personal healing.
Episode Timestamps00:00 – The Early Aspirations and Spiritual Journey02:53 – Transitioning from Pharmacy to Holistic Therapy06:07 – Building a Business: The Journey Begins09:01 – Balancing Two Worlds: Pharmacy and Holistic Therapy12:14 – Defining Moments in Business15:01 – Networking and Community Support18:06 – Challenges in Business: Gaining Clients and Personal Health21:59 – Protecting Energy and Wellbeing27:49 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs30:52 – The Essence of My Kind of Business
What to Expect
A gentle but powerful career change story
Honest talk about grief, burnout and self-trust
Insights on building a spiritual and sustainable business
Practical advice on managing energy as a therapist
A reminder that intuition is a valid business strategy
Connect with LivInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lunarholistictherapies/Website: https://www.lunarholistictherapiestelford.info/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094558569797
Connect with AlexBook a free Business Connection session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingFacebook Group: Business Connection CommunityLinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedInWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Owning your Voice, Breaking the Mould & Redefining Fitness with Jules McGill

In this ninth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex sits down with Jules McGill - a Personal Trainer, Wellbeing Coach and speaker who left a stable teaching career to build a fitness business rooted in intuition, joy and empowerment.
Jules opens up about the emotional rollercoaster of career change, how she learned to trust her gut, and why setting playful boundaries and stepping back from social media have been game‑changers.
We explore what it really takes to find your voice in a crowded industry and how movement can be a vehicle for confidence, not conformity. This warm, honest conversation is full of insight for anyone ready to do things their own way.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – From Childhood Dreams to Business Reality03:02 – The Transition from Teaching to Entrepreneurship05:59 – Navigating Self‑Doubt and Identity09:13 – The Early Days of Business11:57 – Building Resilience in Business14:45 – Trusting Your Intuition17:54 – Current Business Landscape and Future Aspirations23:09 – Challenging Industry Norms26:05 – Finding Your Voice29:41 – Social Media Detox31:01 – Balancing Family and Business34:12 – Redefining Boundaries39:14 – Embracing Creativity in Business
What to Expect
Real talk on the emotional side of leaving a secure career
Practical steps for tuning into your intuition and rebuilding self‑belief
Why boundaries (and breaks from social media) fuel creativity
Reframing movement as confidence‑building, not body‑fixing
Inspiration for dreaming bigger—Jules’s vision for bringing her work into schools and beyond
Connect with Jules
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julesmcgill/Learn more about her offerings and upcoming workshops at julesmcgill.com
Connect with Alex
Book a free Business Connection session: https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching/
Facebook Group: Business Connection Community
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alex-mccarthy-coaching/
Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

From Anxiety to Alignment: A Mindful Business Journey with Intuitive Coach Holly Smith

In this eighth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by intuitive mindfulness coach Holly Smith for a warm and powerful conversation about self-belief, mental health and building a business rooted in purpose.
Holly shares her journey from aspiring vet to neurological physiotherapist, and how mindfulness supported her through anxiety and depression — ultimately leading her to start her own business, My Kind of Mind, in 2018. What began as a deeply personal practice evolved into a thriving coaching business offering workshops, retreats and 1:1 support for people navigating stress, burnout and disconnection — including NHS staff.
Alex and Holly talk about the mindset shifts that come with running a values-led business, the challenges of pricing your work, and why consistency and compassion matter more than chasing fast success.
Whether you’re feeling disconnected from your work, craving more meaning, or wrestling with self-doubt, this conversation is full of honest insight and gentle encouragement.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – From aspiring vet to mindfulness coach02:57 – The seed of a business: how mindfulness changed everything05:49 – Mindfulness and managing anxiety, depression & burnout09:01 – What people often get wrong about mindfulness11:50 – Holly’s business growth and unexpected opportunities14:53 – What her current work looks like: courses, retreats, and NHS wellbeing support17:53 – Her proudest moment: public speaking for her own business21:36 – How personal growth mirrors business growth25:26 – Mindfulness as a tool for emotional well-being and resilience28:36 – Reframing pricing, money and self-worth35:37 – The truth about consistency and sustainable growth39:46 – Coming back to your ‘why’ — especially when things feel hard
What to Expect
Real talk on mental health, mindfulness and the messiness of business growthEncouragement for anyone navigating change or feeling stuckInsights into intuitive, sustainable business-buildingA reminder that your path doesn't need to look like anyone else’sHeads-up: the audio is slightly tinny at times on my end — thanks for sticking with it!
Connect with Holly
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_kind_of_mind/Explore Holly’s courses & retreats: https://www.my-kind-of-mind.com/
Connect with Alex
Book a free Business Connection Online Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingFacebook Group: Business Connection CommunityLinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedInWebsite: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

Selling Without the Ick: How to Feel More Confident Sharing your Offers

In this seventh episode of My Kind of Business, Alex reframes the way we think about sales and selling in business. If the idea of selling makes you feel icky, pushy, or uncomfortable, this conversation will help shift your mindset.
Alex explores how sales can be an act of service - rooted in connection, empathy and real transformation. You’ll hear why focusing on outcomes over features, detaching from the pressure to convert and leading with heart can make the sales process feel more aligned, natural and effective.
Whether you're new to business or have years of experience, this episode will leave you feeling more confident, clear and inspired to approach selling in a way that feels good for both you and your clients.
Episode Chapters + Timestamps
00:00 – Reframing Sales: A New PerspectiveAlex unpacks the cultural baggage around sales and introduces a fresh, mindset-first approach to selling.
07:24 – Building Genuine ConnectionsWhy real connection is the foundation of service-led selling—and how it builds trust without pressure.
10:30 – Focusing on Outcomes Over FeaturesThe simple mindset shift that helps potential clients see the real value of what you offer.
12:09 – Detaching from the Pressure of SalesHow letting go of the need to convert every lead makes you a more powerful (and authentic) salesperson.
16:03 – Selling as Service: A Heart-Centred ApproachAlex closes with a reminder that selling is about helping, serving, and creating space for transformation.
Key Takeaways
Selling is service, not persuasion.
Focus on connection, not conversion.
Outcomes matter more than features.
People want to feel seen, heard, and understood.
Detach from the outcome to reduce sales anxiety.
Your worth isn’t defined by the number of sales you make.
Connect with Alex 
Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/
Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

The Power of No: Boundaries, Growth & Trusting Your Gut

In this sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is talking all about boundaries — something that so many business owners struggle with, especially when it comes to saying no.
She explores what boundaries actually look like in business, how to get more comfortable with saying no (without feeling guilty), and why it’s such a powerful step in protecting your time, energy and growth.
If you’ve ever found yourself overcommitted, undervalued, or just burnt out from trying to do everything — this one’s for you.
⏱️ Timestamps & Topics:
00:00 – The Importance of Boundaries in BusinessWhy boundaries matter more than ever in today’s business culture.
05:51 – Listening to Your GutHow intuition can guide decision making — and help you spot red flags early.
12:01 – Practical Ways to Set BoundariesFrom setting client expectations to protecting your calendar — real-life ways to put boundaries in place.
17:57 – Final Thoughts on Boundaries and GrowthA reminder that saying no is often about saying yes to yourself — and your values.
🧠 Key Takeaways:
Saying no is often the key to true growth.
If you're trying to be everything to everyone, you're nothing to anyone.
Listening to your gut helps you make better decisions.
You don’t always have to justify your no.
Boundaries are a form of self-respect, not selfishness.
Connect with Alex 
Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/
Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com

Healing the Inner Child: Jessica Amy on Self-Discovery, Business & Becoming Who You Really Are

In this fifth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by inner child healing coach Jessica Amy, who shares her powerful story of personal transformation. From uncovering the roots of her struggles through domestic abuse support, to rediscovering her true self through deep inner work, Jessica now supports other women to do the same—helping them reconnect with who they've always been beneath the fear, conditioning and self-doubt.
Together, Alex and Jessica explore what inner child healing really involves, how to navigate the fear and vulnerability that comes with running a business, and why true, sustainable growth means honouring rest, self-trust and your own definition of success.
This conversation is honest, grounding and full of gentle wisdom—a reminder that healing isn’t about becoming someone new, it’s about coming home to yourself.
Chapters & Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction to Inner Child Healing03:05 – The Journey of Self-Discovery06:03 – Transformative Moments in Healing09:02 – The Power of Self-Inquiry11:52 – Challenges of Being a Business Owner15:13 – Navigating Fear and Judgement18:09 – The Importance of Passion Over Profit21:06 – Embracing Rest and Self-Care24:03 – Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs27:04 – The Future of Jess’s Business30:13 – Final Thoughts & Takeaways
 Key Takeaways
Inner child healing helps correct misunderstandings formed in childhood
Many women turn to healing when they feel stuck or disconnected
Fear and doubt are not the same—fear can sometimes be protective
Vulnerability is part of the process when building something meaningful
Passion should lead the way—profit follows naturally
Comparison holds us back; everyone’s path is unique
Rest and self-care are essential for long-term, sustainable success
Connect with Jessica Amy
Jessica Amy is a coach and facilitator specialising in inner child healing. After starting her own healing journey through a domestic abuse support group, she now helps women break free from limiting patterns and rediscover their authentic selves. Jessica offers 1:1 coaching and runs a monthly women’s workshop in Kempston, Bedfordshire. Her inbox is always open for those seeking support or a safe space to talk.
Facebook: Jessica AmyEmail: jessicaamyempoweringyou@gmail.comInstagram: Currently taking a break—please reach out via email or Facebook
Connect with Alex
Business Connection Sessions: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
Instagram: www.instagram.com/alexmccarthycoaching
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching/
Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com
 

Making Moves: Sasha Buy on Rebellion, Reinvention & Real Life

In this fourth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by lifestyle and performance coach Sasha Buy for a raw and inspiring conversation about change, identity and living in alignment with your values.
Sasha shares her journey from aspiring healthcare professional to building a thriving personal training business, navigating a pandemic-induced pivot into online coaching and now stepping into a new chapter as an executive coach and soon-to-be mum.
Through honesty, humour and a whole lot of wisdom, Sasha and Alex explore what it really means to grow, evolve and redefine success on your own terms.
Whether you’re considering a career transition, juggling business with motherhood, or simply seeking permission to slow down and trust your gut - this episode will resonate deeply.
 
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – From healthcare dreams to chasing independence03:01 – Ambition, rebellion and building something of her own06:01 – Becoming a personal trainer and growing a successful brand08:55 – The pandemic pivot: moving into online coaching11:49 – The mindset shift from short-term results to long-term impact15:04 – Deciding to leave the fitness world behind21:24 – Embracing motherhood and letting go of external validation26:45 – Real talk on online business, boundaries and burnout31:58 – What success really means (and how it evolves)37:25 – Designing a business that fits your values40:06 – Self-permission, intuition and the courage to pivot
 
What to Expect
Honest reflections on personal and business evolution
Insights on letting go of what no longer fits
A reminder that success doesn’t have to look one way
Colourful language and plenty of realness (headphones advised if little ears are nearby.
 
Connect with Sasha 
https://www.instagram.com/sashahollybuy/
 
Connect with Alex
Book a free Business Connection Online Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession
Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Facebook Community: Business Connection Community 
LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedIn
Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com