Sparkle and Thrive

Imagine standing at the threshold of your home, bailiffs hammering at the door, knowing that once you step outside you'll be homeless. On top of that, your husband has just been diagnosed with an incurable neurodegenerative disease. In one single moment, you're forced to wave goodbye to a life you spent 20 years building while also losing hope for everything that might have come next. For Raynor Winn, it was in this moment of complete despair and panic, that an idea formed after she glanced down and saw a book among the packing boxes. It was about a man who had walked the South West Coast Path with his dog: "We could just fill a rucksack, follow a line on a map and just walk," Raynor thought.So, with nothing but two rucksacks on their back, a tent, and the South West Coast Path as their compass, Raynor and her husband Moth began walking.630 miles…Navigating a path with an ascent equivalent to climbing Everest nearly four times.It's a story so extraordinary, Penguin snapped it up. And it's since become a best-selling book and, more recently, a feature film starring Gillian Anderson and Jason Isaacs. Why you should tune inWe all have moments when life derails our plans, when everything feels broken and our dreams seem lost to time and circumstance. But as Raynor's story shows us, sometimes, rock bottom isn't the end. And a long-held dream can become a reality in the most unexpected of ways. Here's what to listen out for:[00:58] The childhood dream.[05:07] When life becomes impossible to juggle.[08:06] Building life on your own terms.[10:21] "This is as bad as life can get."[16:04] The moment everything changed: "We could just walk".[19:58] From self-doubt to bestselling author.[23:48] How material possessions can trap us.Press play now! 

What happens when your carefully built career suddenly... crumbles?For Susannah De Jager, who was a hedge fund CEO at 32, it was losing her biggest client at work and realising her role was untenable while watching one of her closest friends die of cancer that upended everything. For Patsy Day, it was crashing her husband's car after months of bone-crushing burnout that saw her hit the pause button.But after resetting the course of their lives, Susannah and Patsy are now collaborating on a podcast designed for those of us who are trying to navigate a path through the wobbly middle of our careers. Why you should tune inWhether you're facing your own career crisis, feeling stuck and asking yourself, ‘Well, what the heck do I do now?', or just need proof that incredible women can reinvent themselves at any age, this episode is one you'll want to press play on. Here's what to listen out for:[00:47] When everything comes crashing down at once.[03:16] When recruiters dismiss your experience.[07:14] Grieving an identity you've lost. [10:53] Bloom where you're planted.[12:51] Burning out from a job you used to love.[16:53] What to do when you don't know what you want to do?[20:01] There is so much out there.[22:10] If you're stuck, try this Mel Robbins-approved trick.

Four years ago, Fern Fuller was juggling it all – a single mum with a full-time job as an Executive Assistant, COVID-induced home-schooling chaos, and the curveball that is perimenopause. Cue a moment of complete exhaustion that saw Fern sliding down the wall of her home office thinking, “I just can't do this anymore.”Fern knew something had to change... then she found TechPixies.Why you should tune inCome and discover how, in just 4 years, Fern has:⭐ Swapped a full-time salary for an income of £77k working 20-25 hours a week. ⭐ Worked with 25+ female founders⭐ Built a client base of companies turning over £250k-£5 million⭐ Created the work-life balance every parent dreams of.And Fern has used her TechPixies training to not only launch her dream business but also create a course that helps other women increase their earning power and level up their skillset, whether they're a VA, PA, freelance admin professional or would love to become one.Here's what to listen out for:[02:02] The moment Fern hit breaking point. [05:54] Fern's greatest fear after leaving her job.  [08:47] “Imagine if it does all work out”.[10:13] Why is Fern launching her EA Accelerator? [13:45] Why Integrators are leaders. So, if you're reading this thinking "I want what Fern has," take a listen and then check out Fern's website for heaps more resources and start dates of her next course.Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

There's been an explosion in the popularity of collagen supplements over the past few years, and social media feeds are now full of posts from influencers bigging up the benefits.If you're wondering what all the fuss is about, you'll probably have turned to Google and come across a dizzying amount of information.But there's one woman who is determined to cut through the noise after founding Ancient + Brave, a company that has gone from being a kitchen table startup to the highest-scoring B Corp supplement brand in the UK with 100+ employees.Kate Prince is proof of what can happen when you burn the boats and bet on yourself. This episode is perfect for you if:✅ You're stuck in a career that doesn't light you up✅ You're dreaming of starting your own business but fear is holding you back✅ You want to build a mission-driven company that creates real impact✅ You're curious about the wellness industry and collagen supplements. So, listen out for:[00:42] How to embrace change and follow what truly excites you.[04:03] Why you have to burn the boats.[08:34] Why the measure of success is only down to you.[10:50] Can you have it all? [19:17] The wisdom of our ancestors for modern wellness.[22:07] Why is everyone talking about collagen? Hit play NOW and learn from one of the UK's top B Corp founders about what it means to be resilient, brave, and why you only have to be better than the day before.Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

What if 12 emails could completely transform how you think about your future?What if you could wake up and find that the familiar voice that says ‘there has to be more to life than this' has been replaced by a sense of excitement? Because you realise you finally know where you're headed and exactly what you need to do to get there.Joy Foster, TechPixies founder & CEO, spent years going from one job to the next before finally finding her passion and purpose.And it wasn't until she returned from a weekend away learning about a dreambuilding mechanism that could transform her life that she realised there was a totally different way to secure the future of her business. And now Joy wants to share what she learnt on that transformational weekend with you. Here's what to listen out for:[00:55] This helped Joy deal with her own career interruptions. [01:41] What Joy learned during her jobs as a student.[04:06] Facing workplace discrimination. [06:02] The Olympic dream.[09:39] Redefining a dream.[12:46] Get started on designing your dream life in 12 days.Our 12 Day Design Your Dream Life Challenge is designed to give you the jump-start you need to discover how to create the life you'd really love to live.Through 12 carefully crafted emails from Joy, each one building on the last to transform how you think about your future, you'll enjoy:Daily tips: Each day brings new insights, exercises, and revelations designed to shift your perspective and clarify your path.A mindset meditation when you upgrade: Upgrade your experience with a guided meditation that will help you go deeper into the work and integrate the lessons on a subconscious level.Action steps: This isn't just theory – every day includes actionable steps you can take immediately to start designing your dream life.Whether you're dealing with a recent career setback, feeling stuck in your current situation, or simply ready to take control of your future, 12 days from now, everything could be different. But your dream life won't design itself. So, tune in now and join our challenge before the doors close: www.techpixies.com/dlc12Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Jenn Barnett turned a life-altering health crisis into a life-affirming career pivot. But a comprehensive survey of 600+ mid-career professional women (those with 10-25 years' experience), commissioned by Jenn in her role as head of equity, inclusion, and diversity at Grant Thornton UK, has revealed that pivoting your career comes with its own set of challenges.  So while her report found that: 

If you're neurodiverse…Or know someone who is constantly battling an exhausting cycle of trying to fit in to workplaces that just don't seem to get them…Or you're an employer and want to better understand how you create a more inclusive workplace…You need to get Lillie Jamieson and her sister Alex on speed dial. Because after receiving their own diagnoses for ADHD and autism and realising that it was the workplace that needed to change, not them, they created a business helping those with neurodevelopmental differences break through barriers at work. And with just 22% of people with autism in some kind of paid work and research suggesting that up to 50% of managers feel uncomfortable employing anyone with ADHD, change can't come soon enough. Why you should tune inHear what happened when Lillie and Alex launched their business in lockdown and what Lillie learned about her own communication style. Discover exactly what Send it to Alex does and how it can help you or someone you care about, and learn why sometimes, you've got to take a step back to move forward. Here's what to listen out for:[03:50] Realising you don't fit into a company. [05:49] Launching a safe space for neurodiverse people during lockdown. [09:30] How do you adapt to different communication styles? [13:58] The shocking stats around autism and employment.[17:10] What studies say about inclusive workplaces.[19:10] When moving forward is actually about taking a step back. If you believe more inclusive, equitable workplaces should already be at the top of the agenda, don't just tune into this podcast. Spread the word! Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

We all know gender inequality exists in the workplace. But there's another kind of bias that's been quietly derailing women's careers… and it's time we brought it into the spotlight.  According to Napala Pratini, co-founder of Habitual, a revolutionary digital platform helping people lose weight and reverse type 2 diabetes, studies show that women living with obesity are often seen as ‘less productive, less professional, lacking in self-discipline and less likely to lead'.Meanwhile, men? They can be overweight and still get a pass to top.

Feeling like your energy's on empty? Struggling to climb the stairs without needing a breather? Metabolism slowed to a snail's pace? Welcome to the rollercoaster of perimenopause and post-menopause, where hormones go haywire, energy tanks, and your body suddenly seems to be working against you.But you don't have to just push through the fatigue, brain fog, and muscle loss any longer.In this episode of Career Interrupted, women's health, fitness and wellbeing coach Alison Urquhart reveals her nutrition and strength training strategies that are helping women in their 40s, 50s, and beyond feel stronger, leaner, and more alive than they have in years.What you'll discover:  ✅ Why women in midlife must lift weights ✅ The magic of protein for fat loss, muscle retention, and hormone balance✅ Simple, actionable tips to start fuelling your body the right way.What to listen out for:[01:24] Feeling like you've hit a wall? You're not alone.[07:49] The #1 reason women over 40 should lift weights[11:07] Exactly how much protein you should be eating in perimenopause[13:27] Easy, protein-packed foods to boost energy and strength[17:03] The best time to eat after a workout to support recoverySo, if you're wondering how much protein you need and exactly what you should be eating to hit your daily quota, press play on this episode of Career Interrupted and get set to feel stronger, happier and healthier through your 40s, 50s and beyond.Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Would you walk away from a high-paying job……with no backup plan, a new baby, and a hefty mortgage on a new house?This was exactly the situation Dr Victoria Stakelum was faced with when she returned from maternity leave and found the toxic culture she'd worked so hard to transform had returned… in little more than 8 weeks.Faced with a choice between job security and integrity, Victoria opted to take a big, bold leap into the unknown and resigned.And she had one of the best years of her life.Why you should tune inIn this episode, you'll hear how Victoria tapped into a hustle mindset, rewrote her career story, and why she believes curiosity is the ultimate superpower when you have no safety net.Whether you're stuck in a job that's draining you or dreaming of a life that feels more aligned to who you really are, you need to hear this.Here's what to listen out for:[01:17] Dealing with a toxic workplace.[08:36] The surprising gifts of a hustle mentality.[11:21] What no one tells you about going solo.[17:06] The internal obstacles that hold us back.[21:06] Why curiosity can be your compass.[23:35] What it really takes to retrain and reinvent yourself.Dr Victoria Stakelum's story is proof that your most terrifying leap in life could lead to your most powerful transformation.Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Heavy, painful periods: the £8.4 billion problem nobody was solving.You've seen the ads – smiling women skipping through their ‘time of the month' like it's no big deal.But if you live with heavy, painful periods, you know the truth is anything but.Crippling pain, constant leaks and anxiety about leaving the house without a change of clothes.And it's not just your body and emotions taking a hit – your wallet feels it too, from the endless sanitary products to the lost workdays. In fact, periods cost the economy a staggering £8.4 billion every year.Enough is enough – and Anna Maxwell agrees.In this episode, you'll hear how Anna decided to stop waiting around for change. After leading the charge to bring the first over-the-counter contraceptive pill to market, her company, Maxwellia, is now tackling one of women's most overlooked health issues: heavy periods.Why should you tune in?You'll hear how Anna's breakthrough medications are making it easier than ever to manage debilitating periods without a prescription. Plus, you'll find out the pivotal moment that set her on this mission – it's a story that will leave you fired up and encourage every woman to stop suffering in silence.Here's what to listen out for:[00:31] Ditching the 9-to-5 to travel the world and finding a new path.[04:20] How investing in yourself can open doors you never imagined.[12:40] The most significant revolution in women's health in 60 years.[15:14] The £8.4 billion problem no one's talking about.[16:31] Real solutions for period pain and heavy bleeding.[20:07] The fight to keep girls in sport.[23:21] Why ‘never give up' isn't just a cliché.If heavy, painful periods are part of your life or someone you love is dealing with them, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now and discover how a simple chat with your pharmacist could change everything.Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

If you think it's too late to reinvent yourself and turn the seed of a business idea into something that can make an impact, Laura Harnett's story is one for you.After setting up Seep, an eco-friendly cleaning tools business that has sold (among other things) more than a million plastic-free, 100% compostable sponge scourers, Laura went on Dragons' Den and won investment from the Dragons she came in to impress. Now, this eco-conscious entrepreneur has a hotline to Deborah Meaden and Trinny Woodall that Laura is using to help her build an empire.

Would a life-changing health diagnosis stop you in your tracks or spur you on to create something extraordinary? For Georgina Colman, being diagnosed with MS has been the catalyst for a business that is making a difference to the lives of disabled people around the UK.And it all started when Georgina made a startling observation while out shopping with her son: she saw discounts everywhere for students, carers and parents, but nothing for those living with a disability. Her solution is Purpl, the UK's first disability discount site.

Losing a job once is tough. Losing it twice? It's an emotional rollercoaster that forces you to dig deep to survive. For Avneet Sachdeva, these challenges became an opportunity to channel her entrepreneurial spirit and tap into a powerful mission: helping women build wealth mindfully.Why you need more than one income streamAvneet believes women should never rely on just one source of income. When she faced redundancy, she tapped into her side hustle and turned it into her full-time passion. Today, she empowers women to embrace a wealthy mindset as a wealth coach (her Insta is jam-packed with clever tips!).What does it mean to be wealthy?Being wealthy isn't just about money – it's about having the confidence and freedom to create the life you want and wanting to make an impact. If you're wondering how to start, this episode will help you reframe redundancy and rethink what wealth and success can look like.

What does ‘winning' mean to you?As a World Champion rower, three-time Olympian and Olympic silver medallist, Cath Bishop spent a decade embedded in a high-performance winning culture.But when Cath transitioned from the world of elite sport into diplomacy, she expected to leave the will to win behind. Instead, she discovered that from classrooms to boardrooms, society is obsessed with winning,And it's an obsession that is holding us back.We chase trophies, titles, and numbers, believing they define success. But as Cath points out in this episode, we see time and time again that a fleeting moment of glory leaves many feeling unfilled. For Cath, it's time to embrace a new definition of success, one that prioritises collaboration, long-term growth and real impact. So tune in to hear:[02:54] The importance of learning to adapt.[08:25] Choosing to thrive in the freelance world.[09:57] Finding your USP.[12:15] How an obsession with winning can hold you back. [15:42] How to think differently about winning. [19:07] Have you said this?If you're curious about how you can redefine winning in your life, press play now. ▶️▶️▶️  Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

*This podcast episode discusses trauma, which some listeners may find triggering. In 1989, tanks rolled into Tiananmen Square, and the world watched in horror as a brutal moment in history unfolded. But for Philippa Smethurst, who was teaching in China at the time, the impact was more than headline – it was witnessed firsthand in the tear-streaked faces of her students, mourning friends and loved ones lost to the violence.Without realising it, Philippa became a lightning rod for their trauma. Decades later, as a psychotherapist, she continues to help people unpack the hidden wounds they carry. Because trauma isn't just a moment in time – it's something that can linger in our bodies, shaping the way we react, trust, and navigate the world.In our latest Career Interrupted podcast episode, Philippa shares powerful insights from her 30 years of experience, breaking down the ways trauma manifests – from fight, flight, freeze, and dissociation to trust issues and brain hijacking. What to listen out for:[01:28] Witnessing a watershed moment in history. [05:50] Dealing with micro traumas.[10:53] The trauma thermometer.[14:46] Develop a noticing brain.[19:38] The stale gingerbread man.  [26:50] Treat yourself as if you matter.What you'll take away from this episode:✔️ How to recognise trauma responses in yourself and others✔️ The lessons that can come out of dealing with trauma✔️ Practical steps to build resilience and reclaim controlPlus, Philippa shows off her fun visual tools to help you understand trauma in a whole new way (say hello to the ‘stale gingerbread man'!!!) You'll want to tune in for that alone!

Let's be honest: most of us want more of it, and most of us want the money we do have to work harder for us.  What if you could download a free app that looked at your current finances and then helped you make a plan to get them to where you want them to be? Enter Elisabeth Prager, the co-founder of Alia Money, the personal trainer you can pop in your pocket that helps you master your money.Because here's the scary thing: according to the most recent report from the World Economic Forum, it will take 134 years – roughly 5 generations – before women achieve parity with men when it comes to wealth, health, educational attainment and political empowerment. 

Hands up if you've been through any of these:✅ Redundancy✅ Bereavement✅ Divorce✅ Caring for elderly parents✅ Chronic illness✅ Menopause✅ Abuse✅ Raising tricky teenagersChances are, you've just ticked a few boxes and maybe you're still feeling the aftershocks.Here's the thing: By the time women hit 50, more than half have faced at least five major life upheavals. And let's be real – these “Horsemen of the Midlife Apocalypse” rarely arrive one at a time. Instead, they create a maelstrom that throws everything off course.That's exactly what happened to Eleanor Mills. After a dazzling 25-year career at The Times and The Sunday Times, she was made redundant, and it hit like a wrecking ball, completely knocking the stuffing out of her.But with no map and no signposts for what should come next, Eleanor flipped the script. She decided to be the change she wanted to see and created Noon – a thriving community for what Eleanor calls ‘Queenagers' – women in midlife who are ready to seize the next chapter of growth. Today, she's on a mission to prove that this stage of life isn't a crisis; it's a chrysalisHere's why you should tune inEleanor's story will definitely hit home – but she's also bringing the warmth, wisdom and straight-talking advice that can change how you see your future. So, whether you've just been sideswiped by change or you're ready to embrace what's next, this is an episode to pop on your playlist and return to time and time again. ▶️▶️▶️Key moments to listen out for:[01:21] Creating a map for the next chapter of your life.[05:37] You have more value than you think.[09:21] From redundancy to building a community.[14:55] Eleanor's advice for senior leaders. [19:39] Why you should paddle your own canoe.[27:58] Joy's shocking redundancy story.[30:48] A call out to women in positions of power.[35:00] The untapped power of women in midlife right now.

“People will have negative opinions about you and every single thing you do. Let them.” – Mel RobbinsEveryone is talking about Mel Robbins' latest book, The Let Them Theory. And trust us when we say you'll be nodding along to what she has to say.In it, Mel shares her own struggle with promoting herself on social media when she first started as a motivational speaker. Despite having a vision for her business, she hesitated, worried about what her friends and family would think. 

Rub your hands together and slowly pull them apart. What do you feel? Warmth? Tingling?  ⚡For Jodi Law, this sensation is energy. And as a transformational energy medicine practitioner, she believes we can tap into the body's natural energy to take control of our health and wellbeing. It's an area Jodi leaned into after more than 30 years in acute health care as a senior cardiac nurse. It's a job that pushed Jodi's own health to the limits, with the stress manifesting as heart palpitations and fainting spells.

*Trigger warning: this podcast episode discusses infertility.*Your husband quits his job to help you build the next phase of your business only for the panic of the pandemic to hit just a couple of months later.Your thriving face-to-face career supporting women in their 40s through complex fertility issues needs to pivot…fast…but you're homeschooling one child while breastfeeding another. And you're beginning to wonder how you're going to pay the bills. What would you do?For Naava Carman, necessity was the mother of invention. She quickly realised she could share her knowledge to build a global online training platform for practitioners keen to support women in their fertility journey. And as you'll hear, Naava's story shows it's possible to:➡️ Successfully redefine the roles in marriage to allow for the creation of a business that is joyful for both people.➡️ Navigate down periods and setbacks and come out stronger… if you allow your entrepreneurial brain the freedom to explore ideas.➡️ Get help for complex fertility issues, particularly when you're in your 40sHere's what to listen out for:[00:58] The panic of wondering how to pay the bills. [04:26] Swapping roles in a marriage + when setbacks become comebacks. [07:24] Navigating the ups and downs of business.[09:28] Holding yourself accountable. [11:02] Advancing support for fertility issues.Ready to learn more? Press play now. ▶️▶️▶️  Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources in this episode, please visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Life is rarely a straight line; it's often more of a doodle full of unexpected twists and squiggles. Just ask Annie Ridout. Her journey – from being ousted from her job while pregnant to creating a thriving, multi-dimensional career as a journalist, author, poet, and entrepreneur – will feel so relatable. After vowing never to be at the mercy of someone else's power to pull the rug from under her, Annie has pivoted and diversified to build a career rooted in her passion for writing while embracing the joys and challenges of motherhood. What's more, she's refreshingly honest about the highs and lows she's experienced along the way. Whether it's the challenges of creating online courses, navigating the pandemic or homeschooling her neurodivergent child, Annie and I dive into dealing with the pesky ANTS (automatic negative thoughts) that crop up along the way.Here's what to listen out for:[01:42] Designing a career that works around your life. [05:30] The impact of career interruptions on women.[08:27] Dealing with perceived failure.[12:04] Dealing with the logistics of having a child at home. [15:36] Challenging your perception of a situation. [20:56] Annie's core lesson from her experiences. [23:36] Seeing challenges as opportunities and taking positive action.[26:28] Cheer up your day with Annie's poem.Ready to learn more? Press play now. ▶️▶️▶️  Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, please visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

“In the end, we only regret the chances we didn't take, the relationships we were afraid to have, and the decisions we waited too long to make.”– Lewis CarrollYou'd think escaping violence in your home country and arriving in the UK with £300 not knowing anyone a soul would be a pretty high-stakes moment for anyone. But for Sue Harper, it was being in a job and feeling like she should be doing something else that were the highest stakes of all. It takes courage to leave a well-paid job you know isn't right for you and pivot to something you're passionate about… especially in your 50s and particularly if you want to go it alone. But taking that leap of faith has been well worth it according to Sue.Here's why you need to tune in

Would you make decisions based on whether you can say yes to joy, peace, connection and ease? And how different might your life be if you did?

A ‘lifequake'. That's how Helen Kewell describes the moment she collapsed at work after experiencing burnout. Having been someone who would push through tough situations, someone whose identity was built on doing and achieving, Helen says she felt she was being stripped of her sense of self as her body said no and forced her to just ‘be'.But after feeling like she was disappearing and being forced to hit the pause button, Helen's new career in psychotherapy has opened up a new opportunity to explore some of the big topics that crop up when we hit midlife… and to smash the perception that midlife is a hurdle to overcome. Here's why you need to tune in

Imagine growing up on a council estate in Manchester, attending a school ranked one of the worst in the UK, with parents who fled their home country to build a new life. From this unlikely starting point, Claire Hoang was encouraged by a teacher to pursue her dream of working in TV, and against the odds, Claire worked her way up to a role as a social media specialist at ITV Studios via the BBC, Dentsu Aegis and Thomas Cook Airlines.She's here to share the rollercoaster ride that saw her face redundancies, contracts ending unexpectedly and taking time out for maternity leave. It's a story of how challenges can become opportunities and how a £40 face cream saved the day.Tune in to hear:[00:21] Dive into the twists and turns of Claire's rollercoaster career journey.[01:14] Discover how Claire pursued her dream career against the odd[02:15]  Claire's top strategies to stay prepared for unexpected redundancy.[04:52] Why hitting the restart button could be the best career move.[06:59] Hear the powerful takeaway that Claire carries with her.[08:20] The motto that keeps Claire driven and inspired every day.Hit play now and prepare to be inspired! ▶️▶️▶️Love our podcast?Leave a review and grab our Quick Start Podcast Guide.

Ever feel like balancing your career, family, and dreams of starting your own business is impossible?  And after struggling to juggle a corporate job with small kids, Erika Robinson made a bold move – she waved her job goodbye to corporate life and launched her own business. But just months after opening Picnic, her children's play centre, the pandemic hit.

"Wear the shoes, buy the tickets, do the stuff, make the memories."This isn't just a catchy mantra for Michelle Betts – it's the philosophy that has carried her through life's biggest decisions, including two major career breaks. Following a decade at the same company, Michelle dared to take the leap and start her own social media consultancy. And after being named ‘The Most Influential Woman on Social Media in the UK', she's proof that bold moves can lead to incredible success.

It's Q4 of 2024, and we're in the golden quarter!

Have you ever faced redundancy? It's one of those moments that can feel like the rug is being pulled out from under you, but it can also open up a whole world of new possibilities! For Anna Ison, leaving a job she loved after 20 years became a gateway to a whole new, exciting chapter – working as a social media manager from the comfort of home.

There was a time when requesting to work from home (WFH) was like asking for the moon. But once the pandemic hit and working from home became a necessity, we said hello to a diary full of Zoom meetings and saw nooks and crannies of our home become our workspace (thank you garden shed). Of course, working from home has become the norm for women as they juggle work around illness, childcare or looking after an elderly parent, but one woman is intent on making the homeworking experience a whole lot better. ✨Louise Goss created The Homeworker, a digital platform and printed magazine, after her career was interrupted, first by emigrating to Australia and then again by returning to the UK and having children. And because she couldn't find a job that worked around her kids, she created her own.

“I looked around and found that in the increasing busyness of life, people were, while being in almost constant communication, losing connection with others.”– Amita DinmoreDo you have a powerful vision brewing? A dream that's been percolating away for ages?  When Amita Dinmore was inspired to trade in her teaching career for a bigger purpose – opening a community café in Hazelwood, Derbyshire – her vision wasn't just her own. It was exactly what the local Parish Council had been dreaming of, too.With no prior business experience, Amita turned her passion into reality. Today, her café isn't just a place to grab a coffee—it's a safe haven for the lonely, a supporter of local artisans, and a hub where people of all ages come together to volunteer and find purpose.Here's why you need to tune inAmita shares tips, advice, and lessons from her journey. Whether you're dreaming of starting a café, launching a community space, or simply chasing your own dream, you won't want to miss this one. Here's what to listen out for:[04:42] Do you truly value yourself?[05:32] What helped Amita set up the café?[08:25] Hard-earned lessons from building a community hub.[11:14] Why writing down your vision changes everything.[13:54] What to do (and avoid) if you want to create a successful café or community space.[14:44] What's next for The Well-Kitchen? Got a dream you'd love to achieve? Are you ready to do what you can with what you have and trust that it's all going to work out? ▶️▶️▶️Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comWant to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Whether you're a knitting ninja or a paintbrush prodigy, YouTube is THE place to share your creativity! But how do you turn your creative skills into a thriving channel?

What do you do if you've been out of work for a while, especially if your confidence is in freefall because you feel too old for the job market? Sarah Glassey says she felt like she wasn't just in a pickle after being out of work for nine months, but “stuck in a whole vat of pickles in a factory”. And with the stress and some major ANTs (automatic negative thoughts) making their presence felt – “I'm too old,” and “I don't have the right skills” – life was not going Sarah's way.

What have you done recently outside your role as a partner, parent or professional? A guilt-free activity that is purely about having fun and leaves you saying, “I can't believe I just did that”?If you're like most women, chances are you are prioritising everyone but yourself. But author Eve Rodsky believes that carving out time to explore the gifts, talents and interests that make you you is a necessity if you want to live a happier, more fulfilled life.But how do you do that, how do you communicate that to those around you, and how do you get over the guilt and shame?  Here's why you need to tune inIn this interview from the archives, Eve unpacks what a Unicorn Space is and describes her own failed attempt to find one using a Post-It note during the pandemic. She explores the communication styles of our CEO Joy and her husband Tim to demonstrate how you can have high cognition, low emotion conversations that let you implement boundaries and systems to ensure you have time for what Eve calls ‘daily flourishing'.Here's what to listen out for:[01:00] What is Unicorn Space about? [04:04] What is a Unicorn Space?[08:33] The ‘Unavailable' Post-It note.[10:33] There is a formula for thriving. [14:14] What is your communication style? [21:26] What is your partner's communication style? [27:35] How do you communicate with yourself? [35:09] Is Unicorn Space only for the privileged? So, what will you do outside your role as a partner, parent or professional? Email us at support@techpixies.com and let us know. ▶️▶️▶️For details of links and resources mentioned in this episode, visit TechPixies.comLove our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.Want to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

⭐ Trigger warning: this episode touches on domestic abuse. If you are affected by any of the issues raised, head to TechPixies.com for details of organisations that can offer support. How do you build a business when you can't put your face or name online? That was the reality for Mimi Glenn, who, having escaped domestic abuse, was found every time she was resettled and tried to go for a new job or re-establish her business. Mimi realised she needed a business that wouldn't be disrupted if she needed to move. And thanks to the skills she gained through her training at TechPixies, she now runs a thriving digital marketing consultancy business.  But when you can't put your face or even your real name out into the world for fear of being found again, how do you engage with clients and build a reputable brand?Here's why you need to tune inMimi joins Joy for a brave discussion about the steps she took to protect her safety while running her business, how the TechPixies community has provided her with a safe, supportive space to reaffirm her skills, and how she's structured her business. Plus, hear about the incredible charity Mimi is creating for those who have experienced domestic and sexual abuse and need help to set up their businesses safely online. Here's what to listen out for:[02:44] How do you build a business without being visible online?[06:41] How do you post on social media when you don't want to be visible? [10:21] How have you structured your business? [14:09] If you're working for free, do this. [22:49} Always have a contract in place.[26:30] The impact of TechPixies. [31:01] Support Mimi's charity for women looking for support after domestic abuse. There's so much to take away from this episode, so press play now and be inspired. ▶️▶️▶️Love our podcast? Leave a review and get hold of our Quick Start Podcast Guide.Want to get in touch? We'd love to hear from you.Follow us on social media @techpixies and ping us a DM or drop us a line at support@techpixies.com Thanks for listening!

Redundancy, death of a parent, separation and divorce.

“We don't wait until all our teeth have fallen out to go to the dentist. So why do we wait until we're in crisis to deal with our mental health?”

You need to pull on a pair of brave pants if you're serious about making some major shifts in your life. But once you've got some tools in your locker, those shifts needn't be as scary as you first imagine. Just ask Clare Learoyd.

We all want to spend time doing the things we love most. But commitments – job, family, home – often keep us rooted in the same daily grind.For Helen Baker, who's chosen to go after her ultimate dream of having the time freedom to sail around the world with her partner aboard a yacht, this podcast episode reveals the steps Helen's taken to make this dream a reality faster than she thought possible. ⛵From mindset shifts and creating a marketing consultancy business that allows her to work with clients anywhere she can find an internet connection to fixing up a boat that will become her floating home from home, Helen is well on the way to achieving the vision she crafted for her life.

A car park full of sticky notes? Say what?

‘What do I do next?'

What if the world was full of kinder workplaces?

How do you go from having a paralysing fear of being on camera and hating the thought of being on social media to managing successful social media campaigns, hosting webinars and implementing marketing strategies for clients?All within 15 months.

Freedom. Whether it's time or financial freedom, we'd all love to live our lives with more free time and money in the bank.

If your relationship with money feels a bit like the Nemesis Reborn ride at Alton Towers, we've got something to help you hit the brakes on your financial roller coaster.

Say the word ‘brand', and what pops into your head? Amazon? Apple? Coca-Cola? How about you and your business?

‘What do you want to be when you grow up?'

There's a crisis in Fairyland

Stucksville. It's a place no one wants to be.  But unless you're super lucky, you've probably had a moment in life when you weren't sure what you should be doing next.

To paraphrase Reese Witherspoon, who started her hugely successful production company in her 40s, you should bet on yourself because you are your own best lottery ticket.