My Kind of Business

Your Mindset Is Your Business Strategy

 
In this thirty-first episode of My Kind of Business, business coach Alex McCarthy dives into the crucial role of mindset in business success, exploring how self-belief and emotional intelligence shape everything from your confidence to your decision-making.
Alex shares five powerful mindset shifts that help business owners grow with clarity and calm — from replacing pressure with presence, to focusing on progress over perfection, building self-trust, regulating emotions before reacting, and celebrating achievements along the way.
Through honest stories from her own journey and client experiences, Alex illustrates how mastering your mindset isn’t just about positivity — it’s about creating a foundation for sustainable growth, stronger leadership, and a business that truly works for you.
This episode is perfect for entrepreneurs, freelancers and small business owners who want to strengthen their mindset, feel more grounded in business, and learn how to lead with self-awareness and confidence.
What You’ll Learn
Why your mindset is the foundation of lasting business success
How self-belief often outweighs knowledge in building a business
The importance of emotional intelligence in creating resilience and strong leadership
How to replace pressure with presence and still achieve great results
Why progress over perfection helps you overcome self-sabotage
How to cultivate self-trust and simplify decision-making
The power of regulating emotions before responding
Why it’s essential to celebrate your achievements to reinforce growth
Connect with Alex
- Join the next Business Planning Workshop to create a strategy that aligns with your goals and mindset; https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessplanning2026
- Explore 1:1 business coaching (online or in person)
- Join a monthly Business Connection Session for networking and support
- Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com- Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Closing Note
Your mindset shapes your success. By replacing pressure with presence and focusing on progress, not perfection, you’ll find more ease, confidence, and joy in your business journey. Growth starts with how you think and this episode will help you think differently.

Breast Cancer, Nutrition & Midlife Transformation: Sarah Summers’ Journey to Empowered Living

In this thirtieth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Sarah Summers – Registered Nutritionist and founder of Sarah Summers Nutrition. Sarah helps midlife women navigate menopause with clarity, energy, and confidence, without confusion, fad diets, or endless Googling.
After 30 years in the corporate world, Sarah’s own breast cancer diagnosis became a turning point that reshaped her life. She left the boardrooms behind to become a nutritionist, driven by her passion for how food, lifestyle, and mindset can support hormones, energy, resilience, and overall health in midlife.
Sarah’s story is a powerful reminder of the role of gut instinct, community, and informed choices in creating a life that aligns with your values. In this episode, she shares her journey of personal growth, resilience, and empowerment, and offers practical tips for navigating midlife health and lifestyle changes.
In this conversation, Alex and Sarah explore:
How gut instinct can guide life-changing decisions
Breast cancer as a catalyst for lifestyle transformation
Nutrition’s vital role in energy, hormone balance, and resilience
Community support and networking as keys to personal growth
Menopause as a time for self-discovery and empowerment
Managing overwhelm from social media and seeking trusted sources
Continual learning and developing sustainable healthy habits
Whether you’re navigating menopause, seeking a healthier lifestyle, or wanting to make empowered choices for your health and business, Sarah’s insights are honest, practical, and inspiring.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Sarah[02:15] Corporate career and early life[06:10] Breast cancer and lifestyle shift[10:45] Embracing nutrition and further education[15:20] Building a new career and supportive community[20:05] Gut instinct and making empowered choices[25:40] Resilience through challenges[32:15] Navigating menopause and self-discovery[38:00] Practical tips for health, growth, and networking[44:10] Reflections and what’s next for Sarah
Key Highlights
Transitioning from a corporate career to midlife nutrition and coaching
Using health challenges as a catalyst for empowerment and lifestyle change
Nutrition, lifestyle, and mindset strategies to support midlife health
Building resilience and community support for personal growth
Networking for learning and growth, not just selling
Connect with Sarah
Instagram: @sarahsummers_nutritionistWebsite: sarahsummersnutrition.com
Resources & Connections
Book your spot at Alex’s 2026 Business Planning Workshop: Standard | VIP
Shropshire Women in Business Networking Group: shropshirewomeninbusiness.com
Connect with Alex
Book a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Starting a Business After Teaching with Emma Davies: Lessons from the Founder of 'Is it Time to Play'

In this twenty-ninth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Emma Davies – former teacher and Founder of Is It Time to Play? a creative online business supporting early years and KS1 teachers with playful, practical resources.
Through her website isittimetoplay.co.uk and social media community @isittimetoplay, Emma has built a vibrant space for educators who believe in the power of learning through play.
What began as sharing simple ideas on Facebook during lockdown has grown into a thriving online business offering downloadable planning packs, themed play provocations and time-saving classroom resources.
In this episode, Emma shares her inspiring journey from teaching in the classroom to running her own successful business, and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From balancing part-time teaching while starting out, to navigating the leap from security to self-employment — her story is full of honesty, encouragement and practical advice for anyone considering turning their experience into a business.
Emma’s story is a reminder that with creativity, courage and a clear sense of purpose, you can build a business that reflects your values and supports others in meaningful ways.
In this conversation Alex and Emma explore:
How Emma balanced part-time teaching while growing her business
The challenges (and freedom) of leaving a secure job behind
Turning a simple Facebook group into a full-time business
The mindset, resilience and personal growth behind entrepreneurship
Navigating freedom, flexibility and boundaries as a solo business owner
The power of community and staying true to your mission
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Emma[02:10] Emma’s background and where Is It Time to Play? began[06:30] Balancing part-time teaching with building a business[10:45] Making the leap from secure employment to entrepreneurship[15:20] Growing a Facebook community into a full-time business[20:05] The importance of mindset, resilience and personal growth[25:40] Freedom, flexibility and the challenge of boundaries[32:15] Building a values-led, sustainable business[38:00] Advice for teachers and creatives starting a business[44:10] Final reflections and what’s next for Emma
Key Highlights
How Emma turned her teaching experience into a thriving online business
The mindset shifts that helped her transition from employment to entrepreneurship
Lessons on balancing passion with practicality
Why play and creativity matter — in education and business
Practical advice for teachers, creatives and early years professionals considering self-employment
Connect with Emma
🌐 Website: isittimetoplay.co.uk📸 Instagram: instagram.com/isittimetoplay📘 Facebook: facebook.com/isittimetoplay
Connect with Alex
💻 Book a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching🌐 Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

How to Align your Career and Life; Insights from Career & Business Coach Sarah Burrows

Episode 28: How to Align Your Career and Life with Sarah Burrows
In this twenty-eighth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Sarah Burrows – Accredited Career & Business Coach and Founder of Achieving Ambition. Sarah helps women who feel stuck, lost or unfulfilled in their careers to discover a purpose-filled path, whether that’s a career change, developing leadership skills or stepping into entrepreneurship.
With a background spanning psychology, the British military and the charity and corporate sectors, Sarah brings both expertise and lived experience to her work. She shares openly in this episode about her own journey – the fears, the challenges and the joy of creating a business that aligns with who she is.
Sarah’s story is a reminder that building a career or business you love is rarely a straight line – it’s about tuning into your energy, giving yourself permission to rest and embracing the moments that make all the hard work worthwhile.
In this conversation Alex and Sarah explore:
Using fear and uncertainty as a catalyst for growth
Designing your business and life around your energy and priorities
The power of mindset, support and allowing yourself to rest
Standout “pinch me” moments of entrepreneurship
Why alignment matters more than following a traditional path
Practical advice for anyone considering a career change or new business
Whether you’re at a crossroads in your career, thinking about launching your own business, or simply looking for encouragement to create work that lights you up, Sarah’s insights are filled with honesty, warmth and inspiration.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Sarah[02:15] Sarah’s career background and early influences[06:10] Making the leap into coaching and entrepreneurship[10:45] Using fear and uncertainty as growth fuel[15:20] Building a business around energy and priorities[20:05] The importance of mindset, support and rest[25:40] Standout “pinch me” moments in business[32:15] Navigating challenges and celebrating wins[38:00] Advice for career changers and new entrepreneurs[44:10] What alignment really means in work and life[50:00] Closing reflections and what’s next for Sarah
Key Highlights
How Sarah transitioned from psychology and corporate roles into business ownership
Why fear and uncertainty can be powerful catalysts for growth
The role of energy, priorities and rest in building a sustainable career or business
Standout moments that make entrepreneurship so rewarding
Practical advice for career changers, leaders and aspiring entrepreneurs
Connect with SarahWebsite: https://www.achievingambition.co.ukInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/achievingambition
Connect with AlexBook a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com
 

5 Steps to Attract More Clients and Grow Your Business

In this episode of My Kind of Business, business coach Alex McCarthy shares five practical steps to help you attract more clients and grow your business with confidence.
From defining your ideal client to nailing your offer, building visibility, creating trust, and asking for the sale, Alex combines actionable business strategies with honest stories from her own journey and her clients’. You’ll discover how to make your marketing feel natural, how to connect with the right people, and how to turn conversations into paying clients.
This episode is perfect for you if you’re just starting out in business or looking for ways to grow sustainably without burning out. Expect real-life examples, clear steps you can take today, and reassurance that business growth doesn’t have to feel overwhelming.
What You’ll Learn
How to define your ideal client (even if you’ve never worked with anyone before)
Why your offer should focus on transformation, not just services
How to build visibility that feels sustainable and authentic
The role of trust, testimonials and storytelling in client attraction
Simple ways to ask for the sale confidently without feeling pushy
Keywords woven in:
business growth, client attraction, marketing strategies, business coaching, visibility, trust building, sales techniques, ideal client, offer clarity, personal stories
Connect with Alex
✦ Explore one-to-one business coaching (online or in person)✦ Join a monthly Business Connection Session for networking and support✦ Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com✦ Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Closing Note
Growing your business and attracting clients doesn’t have to feel exhausting. These five steps will help you find clarity, build momentum and enjoy the process of creating a business that works for you.

Rewriting Birth with Steph Flynn; a former Midwife’s Empowering Business Journey

In this twenty-sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Steph Flynn – former midwife and founder of Birth Nerd, who is redefining antenatal education and changing the conversation around birth.
Steph’s journey is one of passion, purpose and transformation. With a background in nursing and midwifery, and a lifelong fascination with the power of birth, she went on to create Birth Nerd – an antenatal education business that helps expectant parents feel informed, confident and empowered. Her approach combines clear, practical teaching with tools like hypnobirthing, all rooted in the belief that knowledge and choice are at the heart of positive birth experiences.
Before having her eldest child, Alex attended Steph’s birth preparation course – an experience that shifted her entire perspective. She went from feeling overwhelmed and uncertain to empowered, calm and confident in her decisions. It’s the same impact Steph now brings to families through her courses, workshops and community initiatives such as Kin Shropshire.
In this conversation Alex and Steph explore:
Steph’s path from nursing into midwifery and antenatal education
The personal experiences that inspired the creation of Birth Nerd
Why informed choices matter in pregnancy and birth
The role of hypnobirthing as a supportive tool
Building community support through Kin Shropshire
The complementary roles of doulas and midwives
Birth trauma awareness and the importance of education
How Birth Nerd is transforming antenatal classes for modern parents
Whether you’re expecting a baby, planning your birth, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the future of antenatal education, this episode is full of insight. It’s a powerful reminder that mothers are not just numbers in a system – they deserve knowledge, confidence and community support at every step.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction and background[03:00] Steph’s transition into midwifery[09:00] The Birth Nerd journey[15:00] Informed choices and hypnobirthing[21:00] Community support and Kin Shropshire[27:00] Empowerment through antenatal education
Key Highlights
Informed choices are key to positive birth experiences
Hypnobirthing is a tool, not a complete solution
How personal experiences shape professional paths
The power of community in antenatal education
Birth Nerd’s unique approach to empowering parents
Connect with StephWebsite: https://www.birthnerd.co.uk/Instagram: @birthnerduk
Connect with AlexBook a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

From Classroom to CEO; Vicki Yadav's story of Transition and Trusting the Process

In this twenty-fifth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Vicki Yadav – Founder of Primary Steps, who made the inspiring transition from teaching into business ownership. Vicki’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, adaptability and determination, showing what’s possible when you step away from a secure career and build a business on your own terms.
From her early aspirations influenced by family, to navigating the uncertainty of leaving teaching behind, through to starting a business during the pandemic, Vicki’s story highlights the reality of entrepreneurship: balancing personal life with business, facing setbacks head-on, and finding the courage to grow something sustainable.
Today, Vicki runs Primary Steps, supporting teachers with practical tools, resources and guidance. Her journey shows small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs the importance of mindset, community and perseverance when growing a business from the ground up.
In this conversation Alex and Vicki explore:
How childhood aspirations and family influence shaped Vicki’s early career
The leap from teaching into starting her own business
The impact of COVID as a turning point in her entrepreneurial journey
The challenges of launching a small business during uncertain times
How to use community and social media to grow your business
Overcoming tech hurdles and learning as you go
The importance of resilience, adaptability and perseverance for entrepreneurs
Vicki’s advice for small business owners navigating change and growth
Whether you’re thinking about leaving a secure career, already running your own business, or looking for encouragement to take the next step, Vicki’s story is proof that with resilience, community and clarity, you can create a business that aligns with your values and supports your life.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Vicki[02:01] Early aspirations and family influence[05:31] Transition from teaching to business[10:01] The impact of COVID-19 on career decisions[15:01] Starting a business during challenging times[20:01] Building a community and using social media[25:01] Overcoming tech challenges and learning on the go[30:01] Shifting focus from parents to teachers[35:01] Key milestones and moments of realisation[40:01] Financial challenges and pricing strategies[45:01] Advice for aspiring business owners[50:01] The importance of community and support networks[55:01] Closing thoughts and future plans
Key Highlights
How family influence shaped Vicki’s aspirations
Why the pandemic became a pivotal moment in her career
The realities of starting a small business during uncertain times
The role of mindset, community and social media in business growth
Lessons in resilience, adaptability and perseverance for entrepreneurs
Connect with VickiWebsite: https://www.hub.primarysteps.co.uk/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primary.steps/
Connect with AlexBook a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Redefining the Trade; Katie Corkill’s Story of building a Painting & Decorating Business

In this twenty-fourth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Katie Corkill – Founder of Katie Corkill Decorating, an award-winning entrepreneur who has carved her own path in a traditionally male-dominated industry, moving from corporate life into trade business ownership with resilience, curiosity and determination.
Katie’s story is one of courage, adaptability and growth. From early influences that sparked her curiosity, to leaving behind the security of a corporate role to pursue more meaningful work, her journey highlights the importance of mindset, integrity and persistence in building a business.
Today, Katie is not only running her own painting and decorating business but also showing what’s possible when you reframe fear as opportunity and embrace the challenges along the way.
In this conversation Alex and Katie explore:
How childhood influences and encouragement shaped her entrepreneurial spirit
The “quarter-life crisis” that sparked her transition from corporate to trades
The challenges and triumphs of starting her own business
Why mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming self-doubt
The role of resilience, honesty and hard work in sustainable growth
Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own journey
Whether you’re considering stepping away from a corporate job, starting a business from scratch or simply need encouragement to take that next bold step, Katie’s journey is a reminder that perseverance, adaptability and integrity will carry you through.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Katie to the podcast[01:15] Childhood curiosity, family influences and early skills[05:30] Transitioning from corporate to exploring trades[09:45] The leap into business ownership[15:20] Mindset shifts and reframing fear[20:10] The role of support networks in business growth[24:00] Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs[28:30] Lessons in resilience, honesty and fairness[32:00] Looking ahead: what’s next for Katie
Key Highlights
The influence of childhood experiences in shaping entrepreneurial curiosity
How a “quarter-life crisis” can lead to meaningful career change
The importance of mindset when facing challenges and self-doubt
Why honesty, fairness, and resilience are cornerstones of sustainable business
Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on taking calculated risks
Connect with Katiehttps://katiecorkilldecorating.co.uk/
https://www.instagram.com/katie_corkill_decorating/
Connect with AlexBook a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

5 Common Mistakes Small Business Owners Make (and How to Avoid Them)

In this twenty-third solo episode of My Kind of Business, Alex dives into five of the most common mistakes small business owners make — and, more importantly how to avoid them.
Drawing on personal experiences and client stories, Alex unpacks the pitfalls that often hold business owners back. From financial blind spots to the dangers of burnout, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you build a business that works with your life and values.
Alex also shares simple strategies to stay true to yourself, grow at your own pace and avoid the pressure of chasing trends or scaling too quickly.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of running a business or found yourself second-guessing your approach, this episode will give you clarity, confidence and a reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and overview of the five common mistakes02:30 – Not knowing your numbers and why financial clarity matters07:15 – Trying to do everything alone and the value of support12:00 – Ignoring your energy and capacity (and how to avoid burnout)16:45 – Copying others instead of building authentically21:00 – The pressure to scale fast vs. allowing your own growth pace25:00 – Final thoughts and call to action
What to Expect
✦ Practical advice on how to understand and manage your numbers✦ Why you shouldn’t try to wear all the hats in your business✦ How to align your work with your energy and capacity✦ The risks of following trends that don’t feel authentic✦ Permission to grow your business sustainably and joyfully
Connect with Alex
✦ Book a free clarity call; https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/claritycall✦ Explore one-to-one coaching options: power hours, four-session packages or six-month support✦ Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/✦ Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Closing Note
Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Reach out for support and take the next step in your business journey with confidence.

From Kitchen Table to Thriving Beauty Business with Amy Robinson

In this twenty-second episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Amy Robinson – a Beauty Business Owner and Educator who has built her business from the ground up, starting in her mum’s kitchen and growing into a thriving beauty space and educator brand known for empowerment, confidence and connection.
Amy’s story is one of resilience, persistence and transformation. From childhood challenges and overcoming bullying, to carving out her own path in the beauty industry, her journey highlights the power of turning pain into purpose. Today, Amy isn’t just shaping brows - she’s shaping confidence, creating safe spaces and proving that boundaries are just as important as beauty in business.
In this conversation, Alex and Amy explore:
How Amy turned early challenges into a successful beauty career
The lessons she learned starting out from her mum’s kitchen
Why creating a safe, welcoming space is the heart of her work
The role of boundaries and policies in building a sustainable business
Practical advice for new entrepreneurs about persistence and self-focus
The empowering impact of helping clients see themselves differently
Whether you’re in the beauty industry, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone looking for inspiration to keep going, Amy’s story is proof that small beginnings can grow into something powerful when paired with persistence, boundaries and a focus on what really matters.
Timestamps[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Amy to the podcast[01:30] Childhood challenges and early influences[05:00] Starting out in the beauty industry[07:00] The decision to specialise in brows[10:00] From mum’s kitchen to opening her own salon[15:00] Creating a safe space and building client confidence[20:00] Comparison, boundaries, and lessons learned[25:00] Personal growth, coaching, and reflection[30:00] Amy’s advice for new entrepreneurs[32:00] Vision for the future and empowering through beauty
Key Highlights
The transition from working at her mum’s kitchen table to running her own thriving salon
Why confidence and boundaries are essential in business
How creating safe spaces helps clients feel seen and empowered
Amy’s advice for persistence, self-focus and growth as a new entrepreneur
Connect with AmyInstagram: @ajrglamour
Connect with AlexBook a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com