Bump to Business Owner

Bump to Business Owner is the go-to podcast for mums who don’t want to compromise on their careers but know that traditional full time employment just isn’t compatible with family life. It’s a space for female entrepreneurs and future founders creating autonomy and a deeper sense of purpose for themselves, their business and their children. Join your host, Caroline Marshall, founder of award winning Virtual Assistant agency Upsource and mum of two boys, in conversation with real women: mothers and entrepreneurs juggling the challenges of growing a successful business whilst raising a family.

E102: Mum guilt, leveraging audiences and making £23k in 48 hours with Lucy Legal 04/16/2026

E102: Mum guilt, leveraging audiences and making £23k in 48 hours with Lucy Legal In this episode, Caroline Marshall and Lucy Legal discuss the transformative journey of designing a career around family rather than conforming to traditional work structures. Lucy shares her experiences transitioning from a conventional legal career to creating a flexible business that aligns with her values as a mother. They explore themes of success, personal challenges, societal expectations, and the courage it takes to pursue a different path in life and work. This episode is brought to you in collaboration with Lucy Legal and her Get Legit Hub. Don’t trust ChatGPT for legal advice! Go to for real legal guidance, templates and support. For Caroline’s original conversation with Lucy, please go back and listen to . Topics: The journey from traditional law career to family-centered business Redefining success and work-life balance Setting boundaries and managing expectations The role of support systems and childcare in entrepreneurship Overcoming societal norms and gender stereotypes Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 06:14 The Shift from Corporate to Entrepreneurial Life 08:23 Navigating Personal Challenges and Career Decisions 10:55 Building a Business with Family in Mind 13:31 The Courage to Take the Leap 16:11 Overcoming Societal Expectations 20:09 Reflections on the Journey 22:05 Leveraging Audiences for Success 23:32 The Right Place at the Right Time 25:28 Navigating Business and Motherhood 34:01 The Freedom and Challenges of Entrepreneurship 38:01 Understanding Mum Guilt and Childcare Decisions 42:30 Redefining Success 47:16 The Juggling Act of Parenthood and Work 53:04 Finding Balance in Chaos 57:28 Creating Boundaries for a Fulfilling Life 60:27 Rediscovering Joy Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Lucy Legal Lucy Wheeler, founder of Lucy Legal, is on a mission to make legal support more accessible for small business owners while also building a life that genuinely works for her as a mother. This episode is also the first in a special six episode partnership with Lucy Legal and a really exciting one as Lucy is a returning guest. The first time we spoke, she was in the thick of new motherhood and in the early stages of building her business. Now still very much in the reality of raising a young family. I'm so excited to welcome her back to explore how that journey has evolved and dive into areas we didn't get to cover in the first time around. Lucy followed what she describes as a predestined path into law, working within the traditional firm model and on track for a very conventional version of success. But everything shifted when she began planning to become a mother and realised that the legal world she worked so hard to build a career in simply didn't align with the life she wanted at home. So she made a bold decision to step away from that path and build something entirely different. A business that was flexible, scalable and designed intentionally around her family, not in competition with it. Lucy Legal’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/40885085

E101: Going viral and leveraging it into a business with Amy Grilli, founder of Five Hour Club 03/26/2026

E101: Going viral and leveraging it into a business with Amy Grilli, founder of Five Hour Club Amy Grilli shares her inspiring journey from teacher to co-founder of Five Hour Club, a platform revolutionising flexible work for parents. Discover how her viral LinkedIn post sparked a movement, the importance of flexible careers for mums, and practical tips for balancing work and family. Topics: The origin of Five Hour Club and its mission Amy's personal career journey and challenges as a mum The impact of her viral LinkedIn post and movement creation The importance of flexible, part-time, and remote work options Strategies for managing identity, ambition, and family responsibilities Chapters: 00:00 Intro 01:46 The Challenge of Finding Flexible Work for Parents 04:29 Identity Crisis: Balancing Motherhood and Career 07:36 The Viral LinkedIn Pos 10:12 Creating the Five Hour Club 12:59 Building a Job Board for Flexible Careers 15:54 Working with Employers: Educating on Flexibility 18:35 Success Stories and Future Plans 24:32 The Role of Team Leadership in Success 25:41 Balancing Work and Parenting 28:53 Finding Identity and Joy in Motherhood 30:13 Navigating the Default Parent Dynamic 33:42 Intentional Parenting and Career Choices 40:16 Creating Opportunities for Parents in the Workforce Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Amy Grilli Amy Grilli is the co-founder of Five Hour Club, a fast growing platform and movement rethinking how work works for parents. Before that, Amy was a teacher, a literacy specialist, and then like so many women, she stepped back from her career to raise children, becoming what so many of us women and mums relate to as the default parent. After years out of traditional work, Amy found herself standing at the school gates, feeling like she no longer belonged in her professional identity. She even considered removing herself from LinkedIn entirely due to the shame of her career gap. Instead, she wrote a post. That post went viral, reaching millions, sparking tens of thousands of conversations and revealing something powerful. This wasn't just Amy's experience. It was a global problem. From that moment, Amy and her co-founder Emma Harvey turned insights into actions, surveying thousands of parents launching a job board within two months and building Five Hour Club, a platform championing five hour careers designed to fit around school hours without compromising ambition. In just one year, they've shaped over 140 roles partnering with forward thinking employers and starting to challenge the very structure of the nine to five. Amy Grilli’s Links: Website: LinkedIn (Five Hour Club): LinkedIn (Amy): Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/40628000

E100: How the F to keep going when it feels like the world is against you - Solo episode with Caroline 03/19/2026

E99: Dragons’ Den, unhinged outreach and creating the workplace of dreams with the founders of Cubbi 03/12/2026

E99: Dragons’ Den, unhinged outreach and creating the workplace of dreams with the founders of Cubbi In this episode, Caroline Marshall interviews Olivia and Tanyka Davson, sisters and co-founders of Cubbi, the UK's first parental leave discount platform. They share their journey from no-code MVP to national platform, navigating entrepreneurship during early motherhood, pitching on Dragon's Den, and building a mission-led business that supports new parents financially and emotionally. Topics: Building a no-code MVP during early motherhood Securing brand partnerships and investment Navigating pregnancy and entrepreneurship The impact of AI tools on startup development Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Cubbi and Its Founders 01:58 The Journey to Entrepreneurship 04:36 Financial Challenges of Parenthood 07:15 Building a Business with No-Code Tools 12:51 The Experience of Pitching on Dragon's Den 15:35 Navigating Investment Challenges 19:44 Preparing for Dragon's Den 22:37 Navigating Maternity Leave as Entrepreneurs 27:28 Balancing Parenthood and Business 29:20 The Importance of Community Support for New Parents 33:21 Rediscovering Joy Amidst the Chaos 35:30 Connecting with Cubbi Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Cubbi, Olivia and Tanyka Davson Today we're welcoming Olivia and Tanyka Davison. They are sisters and co-founders of Cubbi, the UK's first parental leave discount platform designed specifically for new and expecting parents. Cubbi works like a student discount or blue light card, but for the perinatal window, offering verified new parents discounts across baby, maternity, food, fashion, wellness, and everyday spending. From Boots and Nike to Tommy Tippie and free coffees at Boston Tea Party. Cubbi now connects parents with over 200 brands at a time when income drops and costs rise. The idea came when Olivia's first baby was just eight weeks old, sleep deprived, pacing coffee shops with a crying newborn and feeling the financial pressure of maternity leave, she realized something. Why were new parents paying full price at one of the most expensive and vulnerable points in their life? She phoned her sister, Tanyka, and that conversation became Cubbi. What started as a scrappy no-code MVP built by two sisters has grown into a national platform with thousands of downloads and investments secured in Dragon's Den. And in perhaps one of the most iconic Found-A-Mum moments we've seen on this podcast, Olivia pitched Cubbi to the Dragons at nine months pregnant, just a week before her planned C-section. Cubbi’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: LinkedIn (Tanyka): LinkedIn (Olivia): Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/40409195

E98: Burnout, reinvention and thrive time with Rosie Nixon 03/05/2026

E97: How I get through Christmas triggers - Solo episode with Caroline 12/18/2025

E96: Navigating Christmas pressure and the messy middle with psychologist Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall 12/11/2025

E96: Navigating Christmas pressure and the messy middle with psychologist Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall There’s a lot of expectation when you become a mum: how it will be, the friends you will make, the support you’ll have, what work will look like; what Christmas will look like. The gulf between our expectations and reality is very real, and Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall is here to tell you: you’re in the messy middle, and that’s OK. Dr Tuesday shares her tools for navigating the huge pressure we put on ourselves as mums, particularly at this time of year, and how we can be more human to ourselves. We’re in the messy middle, we’re in the identity shift, we’re amidst changing dynamics, so let’s be a bit kinder to ourselves. If you’re ready to let go of the pressure, and rediscover your joy, listen in. Takeaways: The unique challenges millennial mums face The motherhood identity shift Changing relationships, and expectations in friendship What Dr Tuesday focuses on to manage Xmas pressure What support might look like for you Creative rest through work How to rediscover your joy when it feels lost Chapters: 00:00 The Pressure of Perfectionism in Motherhood 02:45 Navigating Identity Shifts as Millennial Mothers 05:32 The Clash of Career and Motherhood 08:11 The Challenge of Finding Community 10:54 The Impact of Social Media on Expectations 13:29 The Journey of Self-Discovery 13:57 The Struggles of Being the First Among Friends 16:52 The Reality of Motherhood and Friendship 19:44 Finding Your Tribe in Unconventional Ways 22:47 Navigating Children's Interests and Activities 23:54 The Pressure of a Perfect Christmas 27:36 Creating Meaningful Holiday Traditions 31:41 Slowing Down to Appreciate the Moment 34:38 The Journey of Motherhood and Identity 39:31 Finding Support and Self-Care as a Mother 43:17 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall Dr. Tuesday is a psychologist, speaker and mum of three. With a doctorate in psychology and a career dedicated to maternal mental health, identity and self-trust, Dr. Tuesday helps mothers unpick the perfectionism and pressure that can so easily take hold, especially at Christmas. Together we explore how the festive season can amplify the invisible load for business-owning mums, the expectation to create a magical Christmas, keep everything spinning at work, and somehow stay calm, grateful, and joyful while doing it. This episode is for anyone feeling the pressure of performance and the exhaustion of the Christmas hustle. It's a conversation about letting go, coming back to what matters, and finding peace in the messy middle, both in business and at home. Dr Tuesday Watts-Overall’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/39356940

E95: Why you should bring your kids along on the business journey with Alice Holland-Lu, founder of The Female Archetypes 12/04/2025

E95: Why you should bring your kids along on the business journey with Alice Holland-Lu, founder of The Female Archetypes What do you do when your boss tells you your pregnancy is “inconvenient”? Start your own business. Alice Holland-Lu used her 15 years of experience in luxury fashion to launch her own brand, based on her own experiences and struggles as her body changed throughout pregnancy and beyond. Alice has built a hyper-local business model, a community and an emotionally-led brand, whilst carting her kids to the factory after school. What else can you do when you only have 2 days a week of childcare? Our conversation is full of advice for women in the trenches whilst building a business during the early years of motherhood: we should all be bringing our kids on the business journey too. Takeaways: Childcare costs whilst your business isn't paying you a salary The perks of a hyper-local business model Community building Whether fundraising is right or even possible for mums Alice's advice for women in the trenches 3 lessons she's learnt from building a business in the early years of motherhood And why we should be bringing our kids on our business journey too Resources: Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Alice Holland-Lu and Her Journey 01:45 Transitioning from Fashion Professional to Founder 04:01 The Challenges of Motherhood and Career 06:37 The Impact of COVID-19 on Maternal Mental Health 09:16 The Birth of a Fashion Brand: Female Archetypes 12:21 Innovating for Real Bodies: The Design Philosophy 14:32 Navigating the Fashion Industry and Building a Brand 17:23 The Reality of Entrepreneurship and Customer Connection 22:47 Embracing Authenticity in Fashion 25:48 The Ethical Fashion Movement 30:08 Designing for Real Women 33:28 Navigating Life Changes Together 36:28 Building Community Through Connection 39:33 Challenges of Female Entrepreneurship Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Alice Holland-Lu Alice Holland-Lu is the founder of the Female Archetypes, a fashion brand built to support women's changing bodies through every life phase, from pregnancy to menopause and beyond. After 15 years in the fashion industry, Alice launched her business following two difficult pregnancies of traumatic birth and postnatal depression, which left her feeling a stranger in her own body. Nothing fit, literally or emotionally, and the seed of a business idea was planted. Her garments adapt from size UK 8 to 18 with thoughtful design features like breathable mesh, deep pockets, and underarm ventilation, supporting both form and function for real life with kids. Alice Holland-Lu’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/39265090

E94: What 2025 has taught me - Solo episode with Caroline 11/27/2025

E93: VC funding and building a life with intention with Kira Mahal, founder of MotivatePT 11/20/2025

E93: VC funding and building a life with intention with Kira Mahal, founder of MotivatePT Kira Mahal has never taken the conventional route - from holding a marketing event in lieu of interviewing for jobs, to leaving a lucrative finance career with no plan, no savings and no clear vision. Self-described as “barking mad”, Kira and her husband went all into their business. On the cusp of a life and business changing corporate contract, the world went into lockdown and they lost £1.8million in VC funding. Pivoting back to their B2C business, Kira turned to the journals she’d been keeping along the way and put into practice what she learnt from her experience. If you’re thinking about taking the leap without a clear plan, VC funding, or the endless tension that is being a founder and a mum, listen in. Takeaways: Kira’s career journey from Young Enterprise, always taking the unconventional route to the idea for MotivatePT Going all in without a clear vision or plan - both Kira and her husband! VC funding - the barriers and why it isn’t for everyone Crystalising your business vision by making mistakes and testing the market Starting a second corporate arm, VC funding and the pandemic Refocusing on the original business and growing more sustainably Journalling and the insights it gave Kira, reality v rose tinted glasses of the moment Kira’s personal, and the wider culture’s, changing attitude to wellness We’re not just building a business, we’re building a life Resources: Young Enterprise: Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Kira Mahal and MotivatePT 02:36 Kira's Journey from Banking to Entrepreneurship 05:32 The Birth of MotivatePT: A Personal Mission 08:14 Navigating the Challenges of Bootstrapping a Business 11:02 The Shift to Women-Centric Wellness 13:51 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business Growth 16:34 Funding Challenges and the VC Landscape 19:24 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 24:15 Navigating Postpartum Challenges 26:28 The Rollercoaster of VC Funding 28:20 The Impact of the Pandemic on Business 30:31 Journaling Through Uncertainty 31:58 Pivoting During Crisis 36:33 Building a New Business Model 37:06 Balancing Motherhood and Ambition 42:14 Finding Joy in Wellness 45:44 Future Plans for Motivate PT Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Kira Mahal Kira Mahal is the founder and CEO of MotivatePT, a tech-enabled fitness platform helping women build strength, confidence, and long-lasting wellness through every stage of life. From launching her business in a ski chalet to rebuilding it during the pandemic while pregnant, Kira's journey is full of resilience, reinvention and raw honesty. Her story speaks to every mother who's tried to hold a baby with one hand and a business with the other. Motivate PT is now a leading UK wellness company with over 40 female-focused coaches delivering 1,300-plus sessions monthly. But behind the scenes is a deeply personal mission to make fitness accessible, empowering and sustainable for women, particularly those navigating pregnancy, postpartum and perimenopause. Kira Mahal’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram(Kira): Instagram(Motivate PT): Podcast: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/39106500

E92: Macarons, motherhood and growth with Rachel Hanretty, founder of Mademoiselle Macaron 11/13/2025

E92: Macarons, motherhood and growth with Rachel Hanretty, founder of Mademoiselle Macaron Rachel and I met on the Goldman Sachs 10KSB programme in February and instantly gravitated towards another. Both mums, both struggling with being away from family, but determined to grow our businesses, despite all the challenges that motherhood/founderhood bring. My conversation with Rachel is almost excoriatingly honest about the impact of motherhood on her business, and herself. These are the conversations we need to have with women, founders, mums and would-be mums. Because the internet will tell you, you can have it all, but the reality isn't quite like that. The economy, the strength of your team and your business plan, mum guilt, resilience, self-awareness as a business owner, and why you might be the obstacle to growth: it’s a big conversation. Takeaways: Rachel’s career journey from hustling teenager to market stall to e-commerce The transition between young, “fun” business and becoming an authority figure The huge personal transition of becoming a mum in a wider context of huge economic uncertainty The struggle of being a founder-led brand when you’re a mum, you’re exhausted and you just don’t want to be on camera! Running a business means managing people and their very real, not always business-related, problems How Rachel’s business had been impacted by motherhood, and the team not being where/who she needed them to be How Rachel’s experiences in business are shaping the growth (or not growth) of her family What needs to change to support mums in the workplace and into becoming a business owner The resilience Rachel’s long-term health condition has given her Rachel's vision for the future, and why she might not be what the business needs Where she finds joy Resources: SuperScalers: Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Rachel Hanretty and Mademoiselle Macaron 02:10 The Journey from Paris to Entrepreneurship 05:01 Building a Brand: From Market Stall to E-commerce 07:40 Navigating Leadership and Team Dynamics 10:00 The Impact of Motherhood on Business Identity 12:41 Challenges of Balancing Business and Parenting 15:07 The Cost of Living Crisis and Its Effects 17:22 The Pressure of Being a Founder Influencer 20:12 Realities of Managing a People Business 20:46 Navigating Maternity Challenges in Business 22:13 Balancing Motherhood and Business Ownership 24:48 The Emotional Toll of Motherhood on Business 27:31 Guilt and the Struggle for Balance 30:10 The Impact of Family Planning on Business 32:17 Gender Differences in Parenting and Business 34:41 Support Systems for Mothers in Business 37:37 Resilience Through Health Challenges 39:28 Vision for Future Growth 41:23 Finding Joy Amidst Chaos Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Rachel Hanretty Rachel Hanretty founder of Mademoiselle Macaron an Edinburgh based business inspired by her time living in Paris and known for producing up to 20,000 macarons each week. With high profile clients like MAC Cosmetics, Moet & Chandon, and even an order for the set of the Barbie movie, Rachel's handcrafted patisserie has become a go-to indulgence across the UK. But her macaron story is more about the beautiful product. It's about starting from scratch. It's about identity and it's about navigating the complexity of building a brand while becoming a mother. Rachel studied English and French at university and while living in Paris, fell in love with macarons. Trained at the Alain Ducasse Cookery School, she brought that Parisian perfectionism back to Scotland and started making macarons at home, eventually launching her business from a single market stall in 2013. And today is a thriving seven figure e-commerce brand. Yet as her business grew, Rachel's personal life evolved too. Becoming a mother reshaped her relationship with her company and she has been refreshingly honest about how hard that shift has been, talking openly about guilt, identity loss and how parenting has impacted her business, both practically and emotionally. She's also navigated health challenges, including epilepsy while leading her team and brand. Rachel Hanretty’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Facebook: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/39016545

E91: Not another end of year push podcast - Solo episode with Caroline 11/06/2025

E90: Celebrating mums and business owners: live interviews from the UK VA Awards 10/30/2025

Ep 89: The military, motherhood and Virtual Assistant industry with Amanda Johnson, founder of the VA Training Academy 10/23/2025

Ep 89: The military, motherhood and Virtual Assistant industry with Amanda Johnson, founder of the VA Training Academy Trigger warning: This episode was recorded during Baby Loss Awareness Week and includes discussion of miscarriage and baby loss. Please take care of yourself. This conversation is long overdue. Amanda Johnson, or The Amanda Johnson as she’s known in the Virtual Assistant industry, is founder and coach at the VA Training Academy, host of the UK VA Awards and my mentor. Before becoming a Titan of the VA industry, Amanda had a 23 year career in the military, until personal tragedy changed her priorities. Despite not personally inventing the field (listen in!) Amanda pivoted to becoming a Virtual Assistant, growing an agency and acquiring the training business and awards. We spoke about how grief shapes you, business as a coping mechanism, what to do if a client won’t pay and why perceptions of the VA industry are often wrong, for both good and bad. Trigger warning: This episode was recorded during Baby Loss Awareness Week and includes discussion of miscarriage and baby loss. Please take care of yourself. Takeaways: Amanda’s career journey from joining the military at 17 to exit Her fertility struggles and how loss changed Amanda’s priorities and career How she came to the VA industry as a side effect of grief Building a business as a coping mechanism What to do when a client refuses to pay Why we should aim for work/life integration rather than balance Selling a business Why the VA industry can often be misunderstood, or limited by perceptions Why it’s a great career for military spouses especially Amanda’s experience of grief and its echoes years later Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Amanda Johnson's Journey 02:41 From Military to Entrepreneur: A New Path 05:20 The Impact of Personal Tragedy on Career Choices 07:48 Navigating Grief and Finding Purpose 10:24 The Birth of a Business Idea 12:54 Launching a Virtual Assistant Business 15:25 The Challenges of Balancing Motherhood and Business 17:32 Building a Community and Supporting Others 20:09 Lessons Learned and Moving Forward 29:54 Work-Life Integration vs. Balance 31:49 Coaching with Tough Love and Empathy 34:43 The Importance of Body Language in Coaching 36:03 Transitioning from VA Agency to Training Academy 39:51 Expectations vs. Reality in the VA Industry 43:09 Gender Dynamics in the VA Industry 46:06 Supporting Military Spouses and Veterans 50:12 Navigating Grief and Finding Joy 57:39 Success Redefined: Flexibility and Family Support Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Amanda Johnson Amanda Johnson is a Royal Navy veteran turned entrepreneur, NICU advocate and the woman behind the VA Training Academy, also known as VACT, the go to training provider for the VA industry. After 23 years in the military, Amanda left service following a personal tragedy. She went on to found Your Executive Secretary, a Virtual Assistant business she grew while juggling babies and young children expanding from a solo operation to a team of 17 before selling the business in 2016. She then shifted her focus fully to VACT embarking on a mission to empower women, especially mothers, military spouses and career changes to build flexible, sustainable VA businesses. In 2021, she also acquired the UKVA Conference and Awards. Amanda's coaching style is practical, honest and full of tough love, grounded in lived experience and a deep understanding of both business and life's complexities. Amanda Johnson’s Links: VACT Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Facebook: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/38752585

Miniseries Part 4: The future of the Virtual Assistant industry 10/16/2025

Miniseries Part 3: Gold standard onboarding process 10/09/2025

Miniseries Part 2: How to find clients as a Virtual Assistant 10/02/2025

Miniseries Part 1: Inbox Zero and why I nearly cancelled the podcast 09/25/2025

S5 E23: Operational overload, purpose and performance with Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins of Positive Entrepreneurship 07/10/2025

S5 E23: Operational overload, purpose and performance with Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins of Positive Entrepreneurship Have you heard of operational overload? Maybe not, but chances are you know how it feels. This week my guests are Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins of Positive Entrepreneurship, authors of the The True Cost of Female Entrepreneurship report. The report makes for stark, but not surprising, reading - 83% of female founders are experiencing high stress, 66% experience extreme loneliness, we have 75% greater responsibility for the household, but 97% of us enjoy the journey. We know the system is not built for us, we know the challenges we face as female founders. Nonie and Yvonne are here to tell us we are not alone, and the practical steps we can take to protect our wellbeing and ultimately improve our performance as entrepreneurs. Takeaways: The genesis of the Positive Entrepreneurship report and the problems and solutions it identified Why we need systemic change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem Hormonal changes and their impact on wellbeing and performance Operational overload and isolation Self care is a strategic and radical act for female founders Purpose can be a double edged sword Failing and non attachment Six best practices for female founders for their performance and wellbeing Chapters: 02:29 The Journey of Collaboration 05:05 Researching Female Founders' Experiences 08:01 Understanding the Ecosystem for Female Entrepreneurs 11:46 Hormonal Impacts on Female Founders 14:20 Isolation in Female Entrepreneurship 17:00 The Importance of Support Systems 19:47 The Burden of Operational Overload 24:17 Finding Joy and Self-Care in Business 26:16 Finding Joy and Self-Care in Entrepreneurship 27:45 The Double-Edged Sword of Purpose 29:29 The Paradox of Enjoying the Entrepreneurial Journey 32:48 Starting the Journey of Self-Care 34:46 Learning from Failure and Growth 36:53 Best Practices for Flourishing Female Founders 42:11 Encouragement for Overwhelmed Entrepreneurs 45:43 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Resources: Download the The True Cost of Female Entrepreneurship report: Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Nonie White and Yvonne Biggins Nonie White is a positive psychology practitioner, researcher and founder coach. Yvonne Biggins is a serial entrepreneur, founder, coach and positive psychology expert. Together they are the authors of one of the most insightful research studies on female entrepreneurship to date and they are on a mission to change the entrepreneurial ecosystem to work from a place of wellbeing, particularly for female founders. Nonie and Yvonne’s Links: Positive Entrepreneurship Website: Yvonne Website: Nonie Website: Positive Entrepreneurship LinkedIn: Yvonne LinkedIn: Nonie LinkedIn: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/37357205

S5 E22: New borns and new businesses with Anna Bailey founder of Pally Talk 07/03/2025

S5 E22: New borns and new businesses with Anna Bailey founder of Pally Talk My guest on the podcast this week is Anna Bailey, founder of the Assistant community Pally Talk. She launched her business and 2 months later had her first baby, in her own words, the last year has been ‘hardcore’. Anna has a lot of practical insight into navigating a business and new baby concurrently - this is your sign to start sliding into people’s DMs on LinkedIn. We spoke really honestly about social media v reality, not only of motherhood, but the assistant world and when, for Anna, revenue finally started coming in from the business. For me, there’s a theme - you will get through it. Whether that’s the newborn stage, the not making any money stage or being too busy for friendships stage, you’ll come through and it will get better. Takeaways: Anna’s career journey from early entrepreneurship to the assistant world Why having a mentor is so important for new assistants How Pally Talks has changed as a business since inception Navigating a new business and newborn concurrently Anna’s first revenue month and how she’s funding the business What Anna’s work week looks like Why workplaces are failing new mothers TikTok v reality in the assistant world Anna’s sister’s experience of baby loss and its impact Why we should all be DMing people The hardest part of the first year of motherhood Newborns aren’t for everyone, but you’ll get through it Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to Pally Talk and Anna Bailey 04:53 Anna's Journey from Assistant to Entrepreneur 09:33 Navigating Motherhood and Business Launch 14:12 Building a Community for Assistants 18:44 Challenges of Balancing Work and Family Life 23:19 The Future of Pally Talk and Business Growth 23:37 Building a Virtual Assistant Business 27:04 Navigating Personal Loss and Support 32:50 Finding Joy in Motherhood 36:26 Challenges of the Newborn Stage 40:33 Future Plans for Pally Talk Resources: Amanda Johnson VA Training Academy: Baby Loss Club: LinkedIn Sales Navigator: Dripify: Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Anna Bailey Anna Bailey is the founder of Pally Talk, a platform designed to empower female assistants through community, flexible job opportunities and a fresh modern approach to networking. Launched in March, 2024, just weeks before giving birth to her son, Pally Talk reflects Anna's deep belief that mothers returning to work deserve flexibility, empowerment and support. What started as a place to help moms explore freelance assistant roles has rapidly evolved into a vibrant community of hybrid, remote and part-time professionals sharing resources, job leads and real life advice. Anna Bailey’s Links: Website: Instagram: (Pally Talk): Instagram: (Anna Bailey): LinkedIn: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/37268850

S5 E21: 5 learnings from 5 years in business - Solo episode with Caroline 06/26/2025

S5 E20: Poop, pre-seed and policies with Lisa Macfarlane, co-founder of The Gut Stuff 06/19/2025

S5 E20: Poop, pre-seed and policies with Lisa Macfarlane, co-founder of The Gut Stuff Be honest - how is your poo? My guest this week is Lisa Macfarlane, co-founder of The Gut Stuff, and she wants you to take better care of your gut. Lisa explains why gut health is so important, some easy wins to improve your own and why she went from Love Island DJ to gut evangelist. We also talk about the nuts and bolts of scaling a business - from building a brand and community as market research for the business, to pre-seed and VC funding, and creating an ecosystem with 3 different business arms. Lisa is passionate about the policies we as business owners need to create to support women and their families, it’s so inspiring to hear. And, of course, we talk about joy - Friday martinis and dips anyone? Takeaways: Why gut health is so crucial for our overall well-being 3 things you can do to take care of your gut health Lisa’s career journey from theatre to Love Island DJ to The Gut Stuff Building resilience and the insecurity of the entertainment industry Creating a brand and community - followed by a business Pre-seed and VC funding Creating an ecosystem with 3 different business arms Why you shouldn’t compare your business to others Mat leave as a business owner, and creating policies that actually work for women Friday martinis and dips Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Gut Health and Personal Journeys 10:09 The Evolution of a Brand: From DJing to Gut Health 18:51 Funding and Building a Business in Gut Health 28:12 Navigating Work and Motherhood 33:29 The Importance of Maternity Policies 36:15 Understanding the Needs of New Mothers 40:20 Balancing Business and Family Life 43:46 Future Aspirations and Business Growth Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Lisa Macfarlane Lisa MacFarlane is co-founder of The Gut Stuff, Mum, bestselling author, Virgin Radio host, and yes, former Love Island: Aftersun DJ. Alongside her identical twin sister, Alana, Lisa made her name, DJing at major events from the Olympics to Simon Cowell's ball before landing a TV role that made them household names. But it was a chance decision to volunteer in gut health research at King College London that changed everything. Despite sharing 100 % of their DNA, Lisa and Alana discovered their gut microbiomes were only 30 to 40 % similar, a finding that blew their minds and kicked off what's now become a nationwide movement. Their mission is to make gut health accessible, affordable, and most importantly, relatable. With a refreshingly no-nonsense approach, the Gut Stuff has become a trusted brand across books, workplace wellbeing, pop-ups, and the hit podcast Chatting Shit. Not only that, Lisa is a mum of one and pregnant with her second child. Lisa Macfarlane’s Links: Website: TikTok: Instagram (The Mac Twins): Instagram (The Gut Stuff): Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/37067235

S5 E19: Burnout, neurodiversity and rediscovering yourself with Dr Claire Ashley, The Burnout Doctor 06/12/2025

S5 E19: Burnout, neurodiversity and rediscovering yourself with Dr Claire Ashley, The Burnout Doctor The 5 stages of burnout are very familiar to me. I’ve been there, and even when I thought I had learnt my lessons, narrowly swerved burning out again. As a mum, especially a mum with a business, I’m sure at least a few of the stages are familiar to you too. My guest on this week’s episode is Dr Claire Ashely, aka The Burnout Doctor. Claire was a highly successful doctor, used to pretty extreme levels of stress. And then with 2 small kids, a house renovation and a difficult work environment, she burnt out. Claire is now fully recovered and shares the signs, symptoms and means to recovery to help us intervene and swerve burnout before it’s too late. Most of all - you will get through it. Takeaways: Dr Claire’s experience of burnout - it can completely change your identity Work is the catalyst for burnout, but it’s not just a workplace issue, it affects every area of life Asking for help is key - the earlier the better Burnout is isolating, you need support networks The 5 stages of burnout Burnout changes the structure and function of your brain Self compassion and time are key in recovery Attachment theory - you are meeting your kids’ needs Recovery isn’t a linear process The interplay between neurodiversity and burnout, especially for women 3 factors in recovery for mums and entrepreneurs Resources: The Burnout Doctor BOOK: Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Burnout and Personal Journeys 02:56 Claire's Journey Through Burnout 06:49 Understanding the Stages of Burnout 17:56 Recognizing the Signs of Burnout 27:36 The Importance of Community and Support 32:20 Recovery and Self-Compassion 34:56 Navigating Parenting Challenges 39:24 The Journey of Recovery 46:56 Understanding Neurodiversity and Burnout 52:39 Realistic Recovery Strategies for Busy Moms 55:51 Finding Joy After Burnout Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Dr. Claire Ashley Dr. Claire Ashley is a GP, NHS Clinical Entrepreneur, content creator, author of The Burnout Doctor, and mum of two. Claire's work is shaping how we think about burnout, especially for those of us balancing motherhood, business, and burnout recovery. With over 20 years of clinical experience and a powerful personal journey through anxiety and burnout, she now dedicates her career to helping others understand, prevent and recover from burnout. Dr. Claire Ashley’s Links: Website: TikTok: Instagram: LinkedIn: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/36966870

S5 E18: Reframing cold sales and my worst experiences - Solo episode with Caroline 06/05/2025

S5 E17: Matrescence, healing and purpose with Danielle Lauren, The Way Too Honest Mom 05/29/2025

S5 E17: Matrescence, healing and purpose with Danielle Lauren, The Way Too Honest Mom This week on Bump to Business Owner, I’m joined by Danielle Lauren, creative powerhouse, former media exec, and founder of Way Too Honest, a business born from the depths of postpartum struggle and radical maternal honesty. From working at the top of global media giants like CNN and Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine, to battling severe pre- and postnatal depression, Danielle opens up about her experience of motherhood, identity loss, and rebuilding a life and business with purpose. TRIGGER WARNING: Discussion of pre/post natal depression and suicidal thoughts Takeaways: The identity shift of matrescence and why it’s so misunderstood Danielle’s experience with perinatal mental health crisis and life-saving support in Australia The mismatch between external “success” and internal struggle Launching Way Too Honest: affirmation cards for new mums that blend compassion and humour The loneliness of entrepreneurship, finding support, and redefining productivity Letting go of guilt, embracing slow growth, and learning to rest Why honesty in motherhood isn't just cathartic, it can save lives Resources: Maternal Mental Health Alliance: The Room Where It Happens: Chapters: 01:00 Introduction to Danielle Lauren and Her Journey 03:41 From Media to Motherhood: A Career Transition 06:28 The Reality of Motherhood: Expectations vs. Reality 09:09 Identity Shift: The Transformation of Becoming a Mother 11:57 Navigating Mental Health in Motherhood 14:57 The Importance of Compassion and Sisterhood Among Mothers 23:01 The Hidden Struggles of Motherhood 28:29 Anxiety and the Reality of Pregnancy 31:47 The Impact of Mental Health on Motherhood 37:36 Launching Way Too Honest: A New Venture 41:45 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 46:05 Understanding Maternal Mental Health 48:39 The Journey of Recovery 51:21 Innovative Ideas in Motherhood Support 55:01 Asking for Help: A Crucial Step 59:38 Rediscovering Joy in Everyday Life Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Danielle Lauren Danielle Lauren is an accomplished creative force and now founder of a beautiful business that brings light and truth to one of the most misunderstood chapters of motherhood. Danielle Lauren is the founder and CEO of Way Too Honest, a brand that creates affirmation and support cards for new mums navigating the fourth trimester, also known as matrescence. Backed by endorsements from Katherine Ryan, Lucy Jones, Zoe Blaskey and Dr. Ellie Cannon, and for every box sold, a donation goes to the Maternal Mental Health Alliance, helping to drive meaningful change in perinatal mental health. Prior to launching her business, Danielle was a powerhouse in the media and tech industries, working as VP of Story for Reese Witherspoon's Hello Sunshine, Innovation Ambassador at Warner Media, and Head of Content Strategy at CNN. She's spoken at global events from Harvard to TEDx with a deep focus on AI, Web3, and the future of storytelling. But as we'll hear today, it was Danielle's own journey through a devastating postpartum period and identity shift that fueled her desire to create her business. Danielle Lauren’s Links: Website: TikTok: Instagram (Way Too Honest Mom): Instagram (Way Too Honest): Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/36701960

S5 E16: Keeping going when business gets tough - Solo episode with Caroline 05/22/2025

S5 E15: Mum guilt, cash crunches and K-drama with Ning Cheah founder of The Beauty Crop 05/14/2025

S5 E15: Mum guilt, cash crunches and K-drama with Ning Cheah founder of The Beauty Crop This week on Bump To Business Owner, I’m joined by Ning Cheah, founder of The Beauty Crop, mum of two, and former banker turned beauty entrepreneur. What started as a side hustle to solve her own skin struggles has grown into a multi-million dollar brand, stocked by the likes of Boots and ASOS. In this honest and wide-ranging chat, Ning shares how burnout led her to rethink everything, the fertility struggles she faced while building a business, and the two very different maternity leaves that followed. She opens up about the realities of scaling, the pressure of cash flow, and why she chose crowdfunding and bank loans over giving away equity 👀 We talk mum guilt and what we can learn from men, support systems, and why she only ever plans three years ahead. Plus how she’s learning to let go, delegate, and make space for joy (think K-dramas and sheet masks - the dream). Takeaways: Ning’s career journey from finance to side hustle to million dollar business Stress makes us neglect our wellbeing when we need it the most Ning’s personal skin struggles made her identify a gap in the market Naivety can be a blessing for founders Why Ning chose crowdfunding and bank loans over equity funding Fertility struggles and mat leaves as a business owner Mum guilt and what we can learn from men The challenges of scaling a business and the realities of working with retailers Why Ning doesn’t plan more than 3 years ahead Support networks and what a working week looks like Where Ning finds joy Resources: Crowd2Fund: Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Ning Cheah Ning Cheah is a mother of two and the founder and CEO of The Beauty Crop, a clean beauty brand that has become known for its high performing plant-based products that don't compromise on fun, affordability or ethics. With a background in chemical engineering and a high-powered career in investment banking behind her, Ning's personal struggle with eczema and cystic acne led her to launch The Beauty Crop in 2014. Now a multi-million pound business, it’s a brand that crops out harmful ingredients whilst delivering vegan, cruelty-free, nutrient-rich cosmetics in sustainable packaging. Since launching in 2014, it's become a cult favourite, stocked in major retailers like Boots, Beauty Bay, ASOS and Urban Outfitters. Ning Cheah’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: TikTok: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/36570205

S5 E14: PR tips for small business owners - Solo episode with Caroline 05/08/2025

S5 E13: Radical acts, building confidence and navigating PTSD with Lauren Currie founder of Upfront 05/01/2025

S5 E13: Radical acts, building confidence and navigating PTSD with Lauren Currie founder of Upfront My guest this week is Lauren Currie OBE, mother of one, founder of 6 businesses and PTSD survivor. Lauren is a serial entrepreneur, who after being featured as the only woman on an event bill decided she needed to build something to challenge the lie of meritocracy. Her business, Upfront, was born. As a systems and organisational designer, Lauren is ideally placed to see where the holes are in our society and where we need to work on them, together. The game is rigged, it might just be that our privilege means that motherhood is the first time we really see it. Building a business whilst raising a family is a radical act. Women even working is so new for us as a society, let alone being business leaders. It’s hard, but it’s worth it and it will get easier. Takeaways: The lightbulb moment for Lauren's business Structural inequality and the lie of meritocracy Scarcity mindset and career choices Lauren's experiences in pregnancy, birth and PTSD Asking For Help Relocating to Europe Building a business as a mother is a radical act How to build your confidence Honouring the season you’re in Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Lauren Currie Lauren is the founder of Upfront, an organization on a mission to change confidence, visibility and power for 10 million women. Thousands of women from over 50 countries have now graduated from Upfront's flagship program, The Bond. It's become the go-to to for women and organisations who want to grow confidence from the inside out. Their clients include global names like Nike, Just Eat Takeaway, the Ministry of Defence, the British Red Cross and PLEO, a true sign of the movement Lauren has built. Lauren is a sought after keynote speaker. Her goal is to help everyone in the room turn their own lights on. And she's not afraid to use her voice where it matters most. She was chair of the brilliant campaign group Pregnant Than Screwed for seven years, championing women against maternity discrimination. Her work has been recognised globally from being awarded an OBE for services to design and diversity, to being named one of Elle's Women Changing the World and one of Management Today's top businesswomen under 35. Originally from Scotland, Lauren now lives in Uppsala in Sweden with her partner and their seven-year-old son, juggling motherhood, business and a mission that only gets louder. Lauren Currie’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram (Lauren): Instagram (Upfront): Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/36371875

S5 E12: Why you don’t need more strategy with Nicola Ward, founder of CakeDrop 04/03/2025

S5 E12: Why you don’t need more strategy with Nicola Ward, founder of CakeDrop What happens when your co-founder (and sister!) steps away and you’re managing a business solo, as well as being mum to 2 kids? In this week’s delicious episode I’m in conversation with Nicola Ward, founder of CakeDrop, who talks me through her experience of exactly that. Nicola has run her business incredibly intuitively and flexibly, focusing on building relationships and leaning into creativity when Covid meant a pivot. She has some incredible advice to other founders thinking about motherhood and the trade offs we as working mums make. My main takeaway? You don’t need more strategy, you just need to take action. Takeaways: The unique dynamic between cofounder sisters Covid forcing you to pivot and get creative The benefits of being a small business in challenging times Relationship building Nicola’s fundraising experience What happens when your cofounder steps away The trade offs working mums make - guilt and code switching Advice for founders thinking about motherhood Why you don’t need more strategy Chapters: 00:30 Introduction to CakeDrop and Nicola's Journey 02:36 The Dynamic of Sister Co-Founders 05:03 Navigating the Business Landscape 07:49 Adapting to Challenges During the Pandemic 10:32 Transitioning to Solo Leadership 13:03 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 18:35 Fundraising Challenges and Experiences 19:02 Navigating Angel Investment and Fundraising Challenges 21:41 Balancing Motherhood and Entrepreneurship 26:15 The Impact of Parenting on Business Perspective 28:49 Embracing the Uncertainty of Motherhood 30:45 Building Relationships with Major Brands 31:49 The Importance of Execution Over Strategy 34:01 Future Growth Plans for CakeDrop 35:06 Finding Joy in Everyday Moments Links: Website: Instagram: LinkedIn: About Nicola Ward Nicola Ward is the founder of CakeDrop, the award-winning solution bringing sweet treats to some of the UK's most exciting places, including Meta, Ladbible, Beauty Pie, and Netflix. Cake Drop specialises in branded treat experiences and automated gifting for employee birthdays and work anniversaries, making workplace celebrations seamless and delicious. Nicola's journey into entrepreneurship began alongside her sister Anna, inspired by their own experiences working in the city, where they noticed the challenges of organizing office celebrations. This insight led to the creation of CakeDrop, aiming to make office celebrations effortless and enjoyable. Nicola has faced many highs and lows on her journey, from the shift to becoming a solo founder to navigating major business challenges, including the pandemic and operational hurdles. Nicola Ward’s Links: Website: LinkedIn: Instagram: Music by AudioCoffee: /episode/index/show/e65d9ad6-3141-4c15-a982-8df3373aa03f/id/35986355

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