My Kind of Business

Yoga, Coaching & the Real Meaning of Success with Anna Botley

In this twenty-first episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Anna Botley – a coach, yoga teacher, and space-holder who helps women stop people-pleasing, speak their truth, and rebuild their relationships from the inside out through embodied presence, nervous system work, and everyday self-respect.
Anna’s story is one of self-discovery, resilience, and redefining success. From early jobs that didn’t quite fit, to earning a biomedical degree, to finding the emotional connection and transformation of yoga, Anna’s journey is full of trial, error, and powerful lessons. She opens up about navigating the challenges of long COVID, overcoming self-doubt and comparison, and building a business that prioritises alignment, well-being, and authenticity.
In this conversation, Alex and Anna explore:
The real differences between coaching and therapy in personal growth
How to create a business that works with your values and lifestyle
Why success is about grounded truth, not just financial milestones
Practical advice for new entrepreneurs starting their journey
The mindset shifts that help you show up as your authentic self
Whether you’re a business owner, yoga enthusiast, aspiring coach, or someone navigating your own path of personal growth, this episode will inspire you to define success on your own terms and trust that the smallest shifts can lead to the biggest transformations.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Anna to the podcast[00:50] Early Career Exploration & realising 9–5 wasn’t for her[10:15] Discovering coaching and yoga[20:30] Coaching vs. Therapy – key differences[30:45] Overcoming self-doubt and comparison[40:00] Defining success on your own terms[50:15] Advice for new entrepreneurs[55:00] Final reflections and what’s next
Key Highlights
Anna’s inspiring journey from uncertainty to a fulfilling career in coaching and yoga
The emotional transformation she experienced through yoga
Insights into coaching vs. therapy and how each supports growth
Navigating long COVID while building a values-led business
Redefining success to prioritise joy, alignment, and personal fulfilment
Connect with AnnaInstagram: @annabotley
Connect with AlexBook a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoachingWebsite: alexmccarthycoaching.com

The Motherhood Shift; Tia Harris on her Coaching Business, Becoming a Mum and Living Authentically

In this twentieth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Tia Harris – a Shropshire-based mum, coach and creator of The Motherhood Shift.
Tia shares her powerful journey from corporate leadership into the world of coaching, where she now supports women in one of the most transformative seasons of life: motherhood.
They explore how her childhood experiences shaped her business decisions, what it took to step away from a successful career, and how becoming a mum cracked her wide open to a new way of living and working. Tia is passionate about helping women redefine who they are, without shame or pressure to “bounce back” – and this conversation is full of warmth, honesty and inspiration.
If you’re navigating change, growing a business alongside motherhood, or craving a deeper sense of self-connection – this episode is for you.
Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Tia to the podcast[01:30] Childhood Influence: How Tia's early life shaped her path[05:00] From Corporate to Coaching: What sparked the shift[10:00] Balancing Business & Motherhood[15:00] Redefining Success[20:00] Leading with Authenticity and Integrity[25:00] Creating The Motherhood Shift & supporting other women[30:00] Final Reflections and What’s Next
Key Highlights
Tia’s bold transition from corporate leadership into coaching
The role of childhood in shaping her identity and values
The emotional and practical challenges of starting a business as a new mum
Redefining success to include joy, self-trust, and authenticity
Why mental well-being and identity work are at the heart of The Motherhood Shift
 Connect with Tia
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/odjus_coaching
Connect with Alex
Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession
Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching
Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Navigating the Mental Load of Motherhood and Business

In this nineteenth solo episode of My Kind of Business, Alex opens up about the real, raw experience of navigating motherhood while running a business.
Alex shares her personal journey through the chaos and joy of early motherhood - from the mental load of juggling multiple roles to the invisible weight of postnatal anxiety. She talks honestly about the guilt many mothers carry and the necessity of redefining what success looks like in this season of life.
In this heartfelt episode, Alex also explores the power of community, the importance of asking for help and the freedom found in embracing imperfection.
If you’re a parent balancing business and life, or anyone feeling the pressure to “do it all,” this episode offers comfort, insights and permission to be kind to yourself.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and the reality of early motherhood02:15 – The mental load and juggling roles05:30 – Postnatal anxiety and its subtle manifestations08:45 – The guilt of motherhood and redefining success12:00 – Building a supportive community and asking for help15:20 – Embracing imperfection and focusing on what matters
What to Expect
✦ An honest conversation about balancing motherhood and business✦ Insights into postnatal anxiety and its hidden impact✦ Reframing guilt as a sign of care, not failure✦ The importance of community and asking for help✦ Embracing imperfection and redefining success on your terms
Connect with AlexBook a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsessionInstagram: @alexmccarthycoaching

From Dollhouses to Dream Spaces; Kate’s Bold Career Change into Interior Design

In this eighteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Kate Parslow; a warm, thoughtful interior designer based in Shrewsbury, Shropshire.
Kate’s journey into business is rooted in a lifelong love of creating spaces that feel personal and full of soul. It all started with a doll’s house her dad made her when she was ten — a moment that sparked her obsession with homes that truly reflect the people who live in them.
After a detour in her twenties, it was a conversation with a friend at forty that gave her the final nudge to pursue interior design for real. Since then, Kate has built a business grounded in curiosity, kindness, and creativity — blending vintage, inherited and new pieces to create homes that aren’t about perfection, but about personality.
In this gentle, reflective episode, Kate talks about building a business later in life, navigating imposter syndrome, and the real power of our environments to impact how we feel day to day. She also shares honest advice for anyone wanting to make a change — no matter what age or stage you’re at.
We chat about letting go of pressure, trusting your instincts, and creating a business that truly feels like your kind of success.
If you’ve ever felt behind, questioned your path, or needed a reminder that there’s no deadline on following your passion — this episode is for you.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction and welcome01:15 – Childhood inspirations: the dollhouse story05:30 – Overcoming doubts and training in interior design10:45 – The turning point at 4015:00 – Starting her business and juggling family life20:30 – A transformative client story30:00 – How home design can support wellbeing35:45 – Managing imposter syndrome40:00 – Advice for aspiring entrepreneurs45:30 – What “my kind of business” means to Kate
What to Expect
✦ The story behind a creative career change at 40✦ How childhood passions can shape your future✦ The emotional impact of thoughtful home design✦ Honest talk about imposter syndrome and self-trust✦ Encouragement to start, no matter where you’re at
Connect with Kate
🌐 Website: www.kateparslow.com📸 Instagram: @kparslowinteriors 
Connect with Alex
📅 Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching💬 Facebook Group: Business Connection Community🔗 LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy🌐 Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

From Police Custody to Candy Floss – Elena’s Accidental Path to Entrepreneurship

In this seventeenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Elena – a creative and multi-passionate business owner who runs not one but two unique businesses: a keepsake sewing business and a candy floss venture.
Elena’s journey into entrepreneurship wasn’t planned – in fact, she calls herself an accidental business owner. After working night shifts in police custody and navigating life as a busy mum, she began sewing meaningful keepsakes for her children and friends. What started as a creative outlet soon grew into a word-of-mouth business. Then came her second venture – a colourful, joy-filled candy floss business inspired by her own sweet tooth and love of celebration.
In this honest and down-to-earth chat, Elena shares what it’s really like to manage multiple businesses while also prioritising rest, growth and family. She talks about the joy of building something her way, the importance of personal development, and why she’s learning to say “no” in order to protect her energy.
We chat about the mindset shifts needed to grow as a business owner, the power of building slowly, and how letting go of pressure can be the best business move you ever make.
If you’re multi-passionate, managing lots of moving parts, or dreaming of starting something of your own, this episode is full of gentle encouragement, creative inspiration and practical wisdom.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction01:07 – Eleanor’s early career in police custody02:00 – How her sewing business began by accident03:45 – Starting her candy floss business05:30 – Balancing both businesses07:15 – How personal growth supports business growth09:00 – Challenges and learning to outsource11:00 – Finding work-life balance and protecting energy12:30 – Advice for those thinking of starting a business
What to Expect
✦ A creative and unfiltered look at juggling two small businesses✦ The value of starting small and growing through word of mouth✦ Honest insights into boundaries, burnout and business evolution✦ Tips on time management, outsourcing and staying grounded✦ Why it’s okay (and necessary) to do things differently
Connect with EleanorInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/amaterialgirl_/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AmaterialG/?locale=en_GB
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/candycloudsfloss/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candycloudscart?locale=en_GB
Connect with Alex📅 Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching💬 Facebook Group: Business Connection Community🔗 LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy🌐 Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

Finding Confidence, Passion & Purpose; Helen Scotchford’s Skincare Business Journey

In this sixteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Helen Scotchford, Founder of The Face Therapist – an advanced skincare clinic based in Marston Moretaine, Central Bedfordshire.
Helen’s journey into entrepreneurship started after years of struggling with her own skin issues and a deep passion for skincare. While still working in her corporate job she began studying skincare and slowly built the foundations of her business.
Her decision to step into business came during a huge life shift - becoming a mother - and since then she’s been navigating the ever-evolving balance of growing a business and raising her young family.
In this honest conversation Helen shares the highs and lows of building her business from scratch. She reflects on leaving the security of employment, working through her inner critic, and staying focused on her purpose - helping others regain their confidence through skincare.
We chat about the behind-the-scenes of running a service-led business, the reality of slow, steady growth, and why connection and trust are the heart of everything Helen does. She also opens up about motherhood, boundaries and the courage it takes to back yourself through every season of life.
If you’ve ever felt the pull towards starting something of your own, this episode is packed with warmth, wisdom and gentle encouragement.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – How Helen’s passion for skincare began08:30 – Transitioning from corporate to business ownership17:05 – Balancing business with motherhood23:59 – Challenges, self-doubt, and the inner critic29:00 – Advice for those considering starting a business
What to Expect
✦ A down-to-earth look at starting a service-based business✦ The power of passion and purpose in shaping your work✦ Honest reflections on motherhood and entrepreneurship✦ Tips on building confidence and trusting yourself✦ How slow, steady growth can lead to deep fulfilment
Connect with Helen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefacetherapistuk/
Website: https://www.thefacetherapistuk.com/
Bookings: https://www.fresha.com/a/the-face-therapist-marston-moretaine-uk-reynes-close-wsntamjh/booking?menu=true
Connect with Alex
📅 Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession📸 Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching💬 Facebook Group: Business Connection Community🔗 LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy🌐 Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

When Business Feels Hard; How to Reconnect and Keep Going

In this fifteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex shares some honest reflections and practical strategies for when business feels hard. Whether you're in a dip, feeling low on motivation, or just questioning what you're doing it all for, this episode is here to help you reset.
Alex explores how to manage your energy, reconnect with what matters, and shift your focus back to creating rather than consuming. You'll hear ways to rebuild momentum (without forcing it), take the pressure off yourself, and keep going in a way that actually feels sustainable.
If you've been feeling stuck, tired, or out of sorts in your work — this episode is a reminder that you're not alone, and things can feel better again.
Episode Chapters + Timestamps
00:00 – Navigating Tough Times in BusinessA real look at the emotional and practical challenges of running a business when things feel heavy.
03:31 – Energy Management StrategiesHow to reduce noise, set boundaries, and focus on what actually moves you forward.
05:32 – Creation Before ConsumptionWhy switching off the scroll and getting back to creating can shift everything.
07:25 – Building a Sustainable Business MindsetLooking after yourself, protecting your time, and making space for what matters.
Key Takeaways
Give yourself space to acknowledge how you feel.
Reconnect with your purpose to get clear on your next step.
Speak your goals in the present tense to bring them closer.
Boundaries protect your focus and energy.
Creating before consuming helps build momentum.
Motivation isn’t the starting point — action often comes first.
Rest is productive. Stillness is allowed.
You’re not behind — you’re building something that fits.
Business can be shaped to work with your life, not against it.
Connect with Alex
Business Connection Sessionsalexmccarthycoaching.com/business-connection-sessions
Instagram@alexmccarthycoaching
LinkedInlinkedin.com/in/alexmccarthycoaching
Websitealexmccarthycoaching.com

She Took the Leap; Motherhood, Identity & Building a Business on Your Terms with Nicole Bilham

In this fourteenth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Nicole Bilham – founder of Wild Bird Marketing, a strategic marketing and sales agency for heart-led founders.
After 13 years working in the commercial team at ITV, Nicole decided to leave corporate life behind and build something of her own. She launched her business in early 2019 with a clear intention: to create a business that gave her freedom, flexibility, and space to do work that truly mattered.
Since then, she’s grown Wild Bird Marketing while navigating the challenges of motherhood, including two pregnancies during turbulent times, a pandemic and the constant juggle that comes with raising a young family while building a business from scratch.
Nicole shares her honest and powerful story — from the early hustle, moments of self-doubt, and lessons in resilience, to the mindset shifts that shaped her journey. She talks about the emotional side of leaving a ‘successful’ career, the impact of stepping into a new identity, and what she’s learned about backing herself even when the path isn’t clear.
We explore the importance of community, navigating business while parenting, and the pressure many women feel to do it all — often without a roadmap. Nicole also reflects on the advice she’d give her past self, and the quote that gave her the courage to take the leap and build her wings on the way down.
Whether you’re starting out, considering a pivot, or simply craving a more human, heart-led way to grow your business — this episode is a must-listen.
Episode Timestamps
00:00 – Nicole’s early career and creative spark05:40 – Entering the media industry and building confidence09:00 – Taking risks and learning through uncertainty14:00 – Leaving ITV and choosing to start Wild Bird Marketing20:00 – Launching a business while planning for motherhood25:00 – Navigating the newborn phase in lockdown28:30 – Why she didn’t lean on her old network (and what changed)32:00 – Business, identity and rebuilding after baby36:00 – The inner conflict of doing it all40:00 – Advice for others thinking about taking the leap43:00 – Nicole’s definition of her kind of business
What to Expect
✦ An honest look at leaving a long-term career to start a business✦ Why backing yourself matters — even before you feel ready✦ The tension between motherhood, ambition and identity✦ The lessons she’d share with anyone starting out✦ What it means to run a business through big life changes✦ A powerful reminder that it’s okay not to have it all figured out
Connect with Nicole
Instagram: @wildbirdmarketingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicole-bilham-16b24514/
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

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