The Next Chapter by Ellie Barker

Ruby developed a love for make-up when, as a child, she'd watch her mum dress up for cocktail evenings and dinners where they lived in Nigeria. She later had pictures of models (not pop stars) on her wall – but back then she thought she'd be a doctor, just like her dad.A chance encounter changed everything. Ruby went on to become a leading make-up artist working with supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford. She began her own make-up brand ‘Ruby & Millie' with her friend and business partner, Millie - which was sold in Boots. Then, in 2007 Ruby received an MBE for services to the cosmetics industry. Ruby knew she had another Next Chapter so she founded Ruby Hammer Beauty. This Next Chapter Nibble begins with the day Ruby had her first job as a make-up artist. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kylie Pentelow says she grew up in a big family which was filled with love and a strong hard working ethic. This she says provided the foundation to her career as a journalist - and what a career. From the Bath Chronicle to the BBC and then to ITV where she not only presented ITV West Country's 6 o'clock show but the national ITN news as well. But when Kylie became a mother her whole outlook on life and work changed. She decided to go freelance and today, alongside looking after her son Edward, she regularly presents BBC News, Radio 4's Woman's hour and BBC Radio 5 live. In this conversation we discuss what it really feels like to present the national news, the importance of accepting setbacks and how a hot air balloon changed Kylie's life. Kylie spends much of her time interviewing people, so for me it was an honour to interview her – and what an interviewee she is. She's warm, open, raw, brilliant and funny. I've known Kylie for many years now and I've personally learned such a lot from her – so I'm delighted now to be able to spend some time with her and you. To learn more about Kylie you can find her here: https://www.instagram.com/kyliepentelow/If you'd like to keep in touch and I'll send you weekylish notes of Next Chapter inspiration. You can sign up here and learn all about my own books too here: www.elliebarkerwrites.com If you'd like to keep in touch and I'll send you weekylish notes of Next Chapter inspiration. You can sign up here and learn all about my own books too here: www.elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Kathy had a huge job in advertising which took her all over the world. But behind the glamour and fabulous hotels Kathy was suffering from burnout. One routine trip to the doctors changed everything.This change she found was in vegetables. Yes, vegetables! Gorgeous, colourful, wonderful veg. Kathy is now a food writer and photographer. Her latest memoir, Rough Patch – How a year in the garden brought be back to life – is out now and is just brilliant.If you'd like to listen to the full interview with Kathy you can find it in Series 11, Episode 3.You can find out all about Kathy at: https://www.kathyslack.com/And just in case you were wondering you can find me and my books at elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Louise Ross loved reading and storytelling as a child but she had her heart set on being a lawyer. She became a barrister and while she loved helping people -she started to feel it was time to do something else. Louise published her first book Holy Island with her husband James in 2015. Since then more than thirty of her novels have taken the no 1 spot on Amazon and she's sold more than 10 million copies.Here she begins with telling us how she knew needed a change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

If you live in the West Country the chances are you know Kate. She's been a weather presenter for ITV for more than 25 years. Her sunny forecasts have brightened our televisions, no matter what the weather is actually doing. Kate has for a long time been interested in mental health, and a few years ago she started to train as a therapist. Her idea – you talk, she listens and together we find a new way. But it was while she was training and still working as a weather presenter Kate was diagnosed with Stage 4 Hodgkin Lymphoma which had spread through her body. A mother of teenage twins, married to her husband Mark, and a friend and colleague loved so much by us all – this was a devastating time. Kate has now been given the all clear, we all watched in awe as she tackled her diagnosis with her usual determination, passion and love for life. She is now a qualified therapist and is using her dark moments to help others see there is always another way. In this conversation we do touch on some darker sides of life, but just like Kate and her forecasts she shows there's always sunshine behind those clouds . Kate is open, honest, humble and funny – she shows how her family's love and her love for life helped her through. I'm very lucky to call Kate my friend, and I'm delighted I can now introduce her to you.To learn more about Kate and her wonderful work you can find her here: https://www.katehaskell.com/Cookie (my golden lab) and I would love you to keep in touch - as we navigate our Next Chapter living together. We'll send you weeklyish notes with 3 pieces of inspiration. You can sign up here : https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Monty Saul says she had an idyllic childhood – she describes her roots as ‘working class and filled with love.' Then one night, a drink in a nearby pub in Cookham, Berkshire changed everything. Monty was spotted by a photographer, and not just any photographer, a world-famous fashion photographer. Before she knew it, she found herself being whisked away to the world of Vogue and Dior. I'll let Monty tell you everything that happened (it's an amazing story!) but Monty shows that by taking a chance, well, who knows where it will take you? For Monty she became a model for Dior, travelled around the world and then she met her husband Roger. He was busy creating his own business- you know the one - Mulberry.Together they continued creating their brand and not only that, a wonderful home for their 3 boys and family which is now also a walnut farm.In this Next Chapter we hear how Monty began working at Dior and the day she modelled for our late Queen. To listen to the full episode you can find it in Series 13 Episode 10 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victoria always loved books, she didn't want to write them, she just wanted to read them. She worked in hotels after she left school, and then as a receptionist but it was when she had her daughter she started to wonder if there was a way she could make a living by reading books.The answer is yes. Not only that, Victoria had no idea how going to a live Big Brother eviction would change everything.I will let Victoria explain all but this is a story of how it really is possible to create your dream job, change worlds and help others. Victoria also shares some very personal insights – which shows we are never alone, even when sometimes we feel we are. She is brilliant, brave and kind and I can't wait for you to meet her.https://www.thebookparty.co.uk/https://www.instabooktours.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

“I felt as a mother I'd failed.” When Sarah Lou's daughter became unwell with her mental health, Sarah Lou saw there was no support for parents and family members in these most difficult of times. So, she founded Parental Minds. What started as a coffee morning has led to her and her team helping more than 1,000 families.If you have any concern for your child or anyone's mental health in your family, I can't recommend listening to Sarah-Lou's conversation enough, and her team may be able to help. Sarah Lou's story shows it is possible to find that sunshine again. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really take to create a great pub? Charlie Luxton had no idea a chance conversation would lead him to a job setting up Soho House - a super-cool private members club in the centre of London that would become a global brand. He also had no idea a chance conversation would lead him to create his own group of pubs and restaurants around Wiltshire and Somerset.The brilliant Charlie explains in this episode why it's so important for us all to follow our hearts. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Caroline says she was a perfectionist as a child and she continued living life like this way into adulthood. A straight-A student, she worked as an airline stewardess travelling with British Airways as part as Tony Blair's cabin crew.But when her marriage fell apart Caroline says she found herself at rock bottom.A single mum and 80 thousands pounds in debt she says she was suffering from anxiety and depression - and then her house was repossessed. She could only think how had she ended up here?But slowly Caroline, through therapy, began to learn more about her marriage and patterns she hadn't even questioned were actually abuse. The more she learned, the stronger she became. She rebuilt her own life into something bigger and better than she could ever have imagined and now she's helping other women do the same.Today Caroline works as a trauma therapist and author. Her podcast Narcissistic Abuse and Trauma Recovery has been download more than 3 million times. She has hundreds of thousands of followers across social media and her work is being featured on shows all over the world. In this conversation we discuss:The difference between normal and ups and downs and when it becomes something elseThe power that comes from recognising our own patternsHow Caroline believes we can all create lives we truly love and thrive - with the right helpWhat to do if you're worried about yourself or someone elseNow, this might be a tougher conversation, but there are still lots of laughs and so much hope too. Caroline says she could never have imagined she could feel as happy as she does and she wants to help as many other women feel the same.To learn more about Caroline's work you can find her here: https://carolinestrawson.com/This is of course an educational episode - it is not a substitute for professional help. If you are worried about yourself or anyone you know the Samaritans are available here: https://www.samaritans.org/how-we-can-help/contact-samaritan/To keep in touch with me and join my Next Chapter community - I'd love it if you did - you can find me here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tony Anderson had no idea a random job he got at a job centre would lead him to create a life bigger than he could ever imagine. He loved sport and in his own words, was 'rubbish with money' but today he owns Anderson Financial Management, helping all different people make their financial ambitions and dreams come true.In this episode we discuss:Why it's natural to have fears around money and earning what we think we're worthHow money is all about ‘building a muscle' just like everything else in lifeWhy ‘hustle' should never be a dirty wordThe importance of having the right people around youTony is so honest and open about the negative beliefs he sees every day around money. He believes fear of rejection is what holds so many of us back, but by applying some simple tricks and looking at why we feel the way we do - earning more money doesn't have to be as difficult as we may think.To learn more about Tony's work, click here: https://www.andersonfinancial.co.uk/To join my Next Chapter Community, click here: www.elliebarkerwrites.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It was when Nicola worked with her dad at the Liverpool fish markets as a teenager, she learned all about grit, hard work and having the courage to speak up for herself. She had no idea then these lessons would be the foundation of an extraordinary career.Nicola started out in journalism and went on to work at places like ITN and GMTV. But when her working life wasn't suiting her personal life – she created her own talent agency. Eventually she sold this – but carried on with working in the industry at James Grant Management.Over the years Nicola has worked with huge names like Ant and Dec, Claire Balding and Gabby Logan. But then she decided she'd have another next chapter and yes, she created another company.Now she runs her executive search firm, Ibison Media placing people in leadership roles in huge television and media companies all over the world.In this episode we discuss:How to overcome the nerves we all feel.What it's really like working with those superstars.How a chance (little bit drunken) conversation with Anthea Turner's sister, Wendy changed everything.What to do when your work life and personal life no longer match.What happened when Nicola was sent to look for a one-legged duck.Nicola believes so much comes down to being kind and supportive to others. She says everyone feels nervous, but sometimes we just have to take a deep breath and pick up the phone.To learn more about Nicola and her fabulous work you can find her here: https://ibisonmedia.com/And I'd love it if you kept in touch . I'll send you little notes about these conversations and much here - you can sign up here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nancy, whose real name is Amanda (she writes under a pseudonym) claims she was a little annoying at school. But it was this curiosity and spirit that took her into the world of tabloid journalism where she worked on huge investigations for papers like the News of the World.But then life took Amanda along a path she didn't expect. Her husband was diagnosed with a head and neck cancer and at the same time she found herself on her own IVF journey.Amanda used writing to help her (and others) navigate this hugely difficult time - using her humour and thoughts in a column about her experience. She had no idea this was going to take her to the world of fiction and writing saga novels.Her Shipyard Girls books have sold more than half a million copies and have reached No. 2 on the Sunday Times Bestsellers list.In this conversation we discuss:What it was really like working for tabloids like The News of the WorldWhat happened when Amanda and her husband had to face a cancer diagnosis and IVF at the same timeWhy we can never be sure where life will take us, but why Amanda believes it's essential we all know what we really love.Amanda is open, brave and funny in this conversation, I felt like I'd known her for years. I hope you'll love meeting her as much as I did. To learn more about Amanda and her Nancy Revell books you can find her here: https://amandarevellwalton.co.uk/To learn more about my books and to join my Next Chapter community (and I would SO love that!) you can find me here https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Claire Davis is a Coach, Personal Trainer and Nutritional Advisor. She's also one half of the award-winning Midlife Mentors who help people transform their lives through their retreats, workshops and podcast.She's back by popular demand on The Next Chapter, this time answering your Christmas questions about the not-so-perfect parts of this magical time of year.In the conversation we discuss:* How to cope with difficult relatives over the festive season (when your stomach is in knots.)* What to do if you don't even like your in-laws. * What to do if Christmas isn't what you imagined it to be.* How to enjoy all the treats without feeling terrible.* What happens when you're given a present you just don't like. Plus so much more. Thank you so, so much to everyone who asked a question and if you didn't, I'm pretty sure the answers will help you in some way. If you're wrapping or feeling a little overwhelmed, Claire is a wonderful person to have in your ear. www.elliebarkerwrites.com This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

Monty Saul says she had an idyllic childhood – she describes her roots as ‘working class and filled with love.' Then one night, a drink in a nearby pub in Cookham, Berkshire changed everything.Monty was spotted by a photographer, and not just any photographer, a world-famous fashion photographer. Before she knew it, she found herself being whisked away to the world of Vogue and Dior. I'll let Monty tell you everything that happened (it's an amazing story!) but Monty shows that by taking a chance, well, who knows where it will take you? For Monty she became a model for Dior, travelled around the world and then she met her husband Roger. He was busy creating his own business- you know the one - Mulberry.Together they continued creating their brand and not only that, a wonderful home for their 3 boys and family which is now also a walnut farm.In this conversation we discuss: * What it's really like to be a fashion model in your teens* What happened when she was chosen to model for our late Queen in Buckingham Palace in a first-of-its-kind private show.* How she coped with all the scrutiny and knock-backs of the fashion industry and why she believes we should never feel intimidated by anyone. Monty's story shows what can happen when you're prepared to work hard, take risks, follow your heart and be true to yourself. She humble, open and down to earth – it's easy to see why her home today is still filled with all that love. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

(I know, I know it's me again but this is the last of the special series…)This is the 3rd of 3 different recordings to mark reaching 100 episodes of The Next Chapter podcasts. It's just me and around 18 minutes long. But I thought it might help if I shared what I've learned. I've listened to all these conversations more than once and I pick up something new every time which really helps me with my own wobbles. What I've always tried to do with the podcast is show I'm with you all the way. We can do this together, whatever Next Chapter you're facing and even in the midst of storms, doubt and wondering where we should step next… there is always another way. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

As I type this I am cringing, going red, wanting to watch 10 Hallmark films back-to-back and pretend I haven't done this - but then, well that's hardly the essence of Next Chapter living, now it it?As part of our week of special recordings at Flowerpot HQ to mark our 100th episode of The Next Chapter - for one week only - today's guest is well… me. I battled with this idea for a long time, but then a conversation with a former guest and friend Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave, changed my mind when he gave me some great advice/a little talking to you. “Ellie, if you don't explain you, your story and what you're trying to do, nobody will understand.” Therefore - I handed over the microphone and podcast to fellow journalist/also my husband Rob Murphy. I hope you will see in this conversation that my true belief that it is possible to create a life we love, and when it doesn't work our the first (or gazillion other times) there is always another way. We discuss: * How rejection has been a very big theme in my life and why I believe it's so important* The importance of the love and people you have around you* Why I know you absolutely have what it takes to live a life you love* Top of the Pops, Robbie Williams and meeting my GMTV heroes for the first time (And yes I did make my normally hard-hitting crime correspondent husband Rob Murphy say “hello gorgeous person.. it was part of the deal…obvs)I hope you enjoy the conversation and it helps in some way. Normal business will resume next week. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

As The Next Chapter by Ellie Barker reaches its 100th episode, I wanted to share with you just a few short words about it:* Why I started The Next Chapter podcast* Why I think you'll love it* What I've learnt from the podcast episodes* The potentially devastating effect on our mental health when we don't live lives we love* How these conversations can at the very least help with your first stepsI have 100 inspirational episodes with people who have changed their lives, taken a risk, started a Next Chapter and they want to share their lessons with you. You can find more here:https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/podcast-1 This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

Will Chase grew up on a small family farm in Herefordshire called Tyrrells Court. He says it was idyllic but describes himself as a bit of a ‘brute' at school. All he wanted was to be a farmer and in his 20s he secured a huge loan to buy his family farm. But then he went bankrupt.He ran away, but then he returned and thank goodness he did because it was while he was back selling potatoes to supermarkets he had his Eureka! moment. What if he turned them into crisps instead? So, they became Tyrrells crisps - you know the ones. They were loved and sold all over the world and just six years later he sold the business for a reported 30 million pounds. You could say that was enough of a Next Chapter. But no. He went on to create Chase Vodka which he later sold to Diageo for an undisclosed sum. And now his Next Chapter living continues as he steps into the wellness industry with Willy's Apple Cider Vinegar.In this episode we discuss: * Why we can never substitute experience* How he turned his bankruptcy into a multi-million pound business and the lessons he learned* The importance of staying true to yourself and your values throughout it all and what happens when you don't.* How he still wakes up and worries at 3.30am Will talks about why he believes so many of us have got it wrong, looking for something on the outside when really it's how we live our life that matters. Plus it's really all about who we become as we face the ups, downs and struggles Life inevitably throws our way. He believes you don't have to have amazing exam results or lots of money behind you to build a life you love - just curiosity, a willingness to learn and the ability to treat people well along the way. This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

Miranda always loved books and stories as a child.But what Miranda didn't know then was this love of books would help her create her very own empire. Miranda worked in publishing for 20 years and ended up at Penguin Random House with the huge job of Editorial Director and then Senior Commissioning Editor too.But when a change came in Miranda's home life, she left the corporate world. It was when she was considering what to do next she came across the inspirational Do Lectures, she sent an email and everything changed. She founded the Do Book Company and these little pocket books are now inspiring people all around the world.I'll let Miranda explain everything but in this conversation we discuss:* What it really takes to create a best-selling book* How simple actions like sending an email can change your life* What to do when your life isn't working for you* Is it really a career change we need, or is it something else?This is a fascinating look at behind the scenes of the publishing world, but it's also an honest, fun and insightful story of how one woman created a life she loves all around her passion - which now suits her and her family.  To learn more about Miranda and the Do Books: https://thedolectures.com/speakers/miranda-west/To keep in touch with me (and to receive Free Chapters from my latest romance novel Do We Really Have To Do This? click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

Susan Lewis has written 56 books. She's written in different genres and her novels are enjoyed by readers all over the world. You can listen to her whole story in S9: Ep 4. But what does it take to be so creative? Now Susan is back to answer your questions. In this episode we go deep into the ins and outs of Next Chapter living. We discuss: * The importance of setting boundaries* The real reason we must carve out time for what we love* How it all comes down to self-belief and how we can nurture this* Romance - in and out of her books. Susan's latest book Nothing To See Here is out now. To learn more about her books you can find her at https://susanlewis.com/To learn more about me and my books you can find me at https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/bookshop This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thenextchapterbyelliebarker.substack.com

Miranda always loved books and stories as a child. But what Miranda didn't know then was this love of books would help her create her very own empire. Miranda worked in publishing for 20 years and ended up at Penguin Random House with the huge job of Editorial Director and then Senior Commissioning Editor too. But when a change came in Miranda's home life, she left the corporate world. It was when she was considering what to do next she came across the inspirational Do Lectures, she sent an email and everything changed. She founded the Do Book Company and these little pocket books are now inspiring people all around the world. I'll let Miranda explain everything but in this conversation we discuss: What it really takes to create a best-selling book How simple actions like sending an email can change your life What to do when your life isn't working for you Is it really a career change we need, or is it something else? This is a fascinating look at behind the scenes of the publishing world, but it's also an honest, fun and insightful story of how one woman created a life she loves all around her passion - which now suits her and her family.   To learn more about Miranda and the Do Books: https://thedolectures.com/speakers/miranda-west/ To keep in touch with me (and to receive Free Chapters from my latest romance novel Do We Really Have To Do This? click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

William Hanson had no idea when his granny gave him a book on etiquette as a young boy that it would, as he says, ‘launch a thousand ships.' He became Britain's youngest Etiquette Expert and he began travelling all over the world teaching. He also had no idea when he visited the BBC in Manchester, that the person on work experience who showed him the way to the studio would become one of his best friends and they'd go on to create one our biggest podcasts. Help I Sexted My Boss is hosted by unlikely best friends William and radio DJ Jordan North. They have millions of downloads every month, they recently won the Listener's Choice Award at the British Podcast Awards and they've sold out the London Palladium (twice). In this conversation we discuss: How we really can create our own luck What it takes to create a podcast listened to by millions all over the world The true importance of manners (clue: it's all about respect) And what happened when a graduate trainee at a well-known bank ate his peas with his knife I also make a very embarrassing confession to William - which as you'll hear - shows how gracious, lovely and humble he is. William has some wonderful stories. He's so open but also shows how anything really is possible. He also tells us the truth about his assistant Josephine… I promise you, you don't want to miss this.

Mel Fenton says she was a bit of a tomboy growing up, she didn't particularly love school and she just wanted to be outside. But when she decided to go into hairdressing like her mum, her whole life changed. She worked on cruise ships, had her own business and taught hairdressing. She loved beauty products too. But it was only later when she was diagnosed with breast cancer, she thought about starting her own range. In this episode we discuss: How we may feel pigeon-holed but we never really are. How overcoming divorce and three serious illnesses led Mel to a life she truly loves. What to do when life feels really, really tough and we just want to give up. The concerns Mel has about what we all put on our skin, and how we can change this. The importance of a community of wonderful women Mel's story is one of humble resilience, love and determination. She's come through some of her darkest moments and is now thriving as she never has before. To learn more about Mel and her products click here: https://www.thepurist.online/ To keep in touch with me and I'd love that click here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ And as a special treat there's a discount for Next Chapter listeners for Mel's products until the end of November: EllieB20

Dr Zara Nanu MBE grew up in Moldova and she thought she'd work in education - however her path took her more towards social justice. But then she discovered something she knew she had to change.   She learned that while predictions show we'll be driving driverless cars in just a few decades, it will take more than 217 years to close the Gender Pay Gap.   Zara knew she had to do something about this – I'll let her tell you what, but it meant she entered the world of tech - which she said she knew nothing about. And as with all Next Chapters there were many ups and many downs. She pitched to investors more than 100 times and didn't raise a single penny and on top of this she was mistaken for a waitress at some of these events. But Zara carried on and today her work is helping women all over the world. She's now one of the leading voices in the world about gender equality, she's been awarded an MBE and she sits on the Women's Leadership board at Harvard University.     If there was ever anyone, I'd feel intimated by doing my first live event it would be Zara. But this couldn't be further from the truth. She's humble, open and so honest. We talk about her own imposter syndrome (especially when she's at the Harvard Leadership Board next to Emmy winners), the importance of keeping going and how she's dealt time and time again with knockbacks. Zara believes if we really open ourselves to our possibilities and the power we all have inside of us - anything is possible and we really all can create the change we need.   For more about Dr Zara Nanu MBE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zara-nanu/?originalSubdomain=uk   To learn more about our wonderful hosts Setsquared and The Engine Shed you can find them here:  https://www.setsquared.co.uk/   https://engine-shed.co.uk/

Amanda Prowse loved reading as a child. She was very shy and used to escape with her ‘friends' in her books. She loved the idea of writing her own stories, but when a teacher told her at the age of 7, she'd never make it as an author - she believed her. But fast forward to today and well, if that teacher could see her now. Amanda has written 35 novels as well as novellas, non-fiction books and a couple of plays. She's sold millions and millions of copies in 22 countries and is one of the most read authors on Kindle Unlimited. What's even more amazing about Amanda is this all happened in the last 11 years. Amanda didn't start writing until she was 43. Since then she's bought her dream home for her family and she spends her days writing the stories she loves. But what Amanda didn't know was that writing would help in such a special way when her son Josh became poorly with depression. In this conversation we touch on some dark subjects – but you will hear – as with her books  -Amanda's warmth, love and enthusiasm for life means we also laughed and laughed… Amanda believes we all have the courage to overcome our fears and live a life we truly love. To learn more about Amanda and her wonderful books click here: https://www.amandaprowse.com/ And if you'd like me to send you weeklyish notes - and discover my books you can click here : https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

The small fact that Jane Steen is named after Jane Eyre - may explain her lifelong fascination with historical fiction. But despite this, Jane says, for many years she couldn't find her own path. She lived in different countries like Belgium and Chicago, she studied law and she worked in real estate in America too. Then, in her fifties she became a black belt in karate. Jane loves a challenge and nothing stopped her fighting back. (I'll let her tell you the story.) But then one day after she was forced to leave a job, she started to write historical novels. However, it was only when she started publishing these books herself and learning the business sides of the industry, she knew she'd found her own path. In the discussion we discuss: What it's really like to live in Chicago Why she decided to go for a black belt in karate (and does she ever use it when she gets cross?) How Jane believes we all have our own path and it's never too late to find it Why studying endless courses can distract us from where we are meant to be How a magical wave can sweep us to somewhere we've never dreamt of, but we have to be brave enough to take the plunge in the first place. To learn more about Jane and her Victorian novels 'you can't put down' https://www.janesteen.com/ And to learn more about me and my books and to keep in touch (and I'd love it if you did) you can find me here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

(I'm going to make a small bet - you've never met anyone quite like Angela.) Angela started off her career in the rag trade. She learned from the best and she had a wonderful time in fashion in Fulham in the 80s, living a wonderful life. But then she started to think she wanted to make a change . Deep-down Angela wanted to design gardens. She'd talk about it, tell her friends about it, but never actually did it – but then one of these friends gave her a moment of tough love (which was brilliant… Angela will explain) and everything changed. Angela created a second career not only designing gardens but growing flowers too. She returned to her beloved West Country and created a new home. But then a bombshell happened - after 30 years of marriage – Angela and her husband divorced and she found herself having to start all over again. I'm going to warn you, this is a ‘colourful' conversation - i.e there's lots of swearing if you're listening in front of children. But this is why I love Angela so much - Angela is Angela. In this episode we discuss: How she left the rag trade and became a garden designer The importance of knowing our worth - and how she does this The pain of a 30 year marriage ending (and a brave truth she shares with us) but how she moved through it. What it's really like to start all over again after all that time How a group of girlfriends - and her donkeys helped save her What it takes to be a real-life Badass and what you can do to be the same Angela believes life is simply too short not to be honest with ourselves. Be ready as she gives some tough love too. But Angela believes everything is doable - that all of us are capable of living a life we truly love and which is deep-down true to us.  To learn more about Angela you can find her at: https://flowerfusions.com/about-us/ The book we both love is : https://www.amazon.co.uk/You-Are-Badass-Doubting-Greatness/dp/0762447699 And you can  find me - my weekly-ish notes and my books (which I hope you'll also love) here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

Firstly, thank you, thank you for all your brilliant questions - with a capital B. We covered such a lot and not what I expected at all. And if you didn't ask a question, fear not as I think we covered a lot which will help you too. In this episode Claire tackles: What do we do when we don't have enough time? How do we carry on when we keep getting setbacks? Why are our knees and joints starting to ache and what can we do about it? How do we fit exercise in when we've already got too much on? How do we stop social media taking over our lives and how dangerous is it really? …And this is just the start. Claire gives some tough answers and real-life examples of work she's been doing with her clients and she gives some very practical advice on how we can make small changes which will make a big difference.  You can find Claire and all her work as a midlife mentor at: https://themidlifementors.com/ And you can find out all about my fiction therapy books at elliebarkerwrites.com

Claire Davis is one half of the Midlife Mentors – the other is her husband James. They are multi-award winning coaches who've helped thousands of people have a complete reset, midlife. Whether it's weight, fitness, career, relationships, self-esteem or all of these and more,  Claire and James want to help us all thrive. They've worked with celebrities like Melanie Sykes and Ashley Roberts. They run one of Europe's most successful luxury fitness retreat companies, and they have their own podcast, The Midlife Mentors. On top of all this, their work has also been highlighted in all different national newspapers and magazines. The reason I'm replaying the episode is – for the first time we're going to do a Next Chapter Deep Dive with Claire. I am beyond excited/thrilled she's coming back on the podcast. Claire was one of the very first supporters of the Next Chapter and I can't wait to speak to her again. (I thought I'd share the episode which is her own Next Chapter story and you can see/remember how refreshingly honest she is.) But now we want to talk about - well, you. What are the questions you have for Claire and how can she help? Are you: Still pondering a Next Chapter but have no idea where to begin? Would you like to lose some stubborn pounds for the summer months, but can't stop reaching for the biscuit tin? Do you a constant stream of negative thinking which you know is holding you back? Are you struggling to organise your time or find the time to do what you really want? Are you feeling burnt out and exhausted, like you're trying everything but not getting far? Are you totally confused by what you should or should not eat, drink, do or simply just be with all the conflicting advice ? (…Or is this all just me too?) The point is, we'd love to hear from you. I'm recording the Deep Dive next Tuesday 2nd July, so please message with your questions. I don't have to say your name on the podcast and you can just reply to this email or message me on Instagram (@elliebarkerwrites) or email (ellie@elliebarkerwrites.com)

When Sarah received a lower grade at A level – she describes it now as a ‘brilliant thing.' It was thanks to this she studied PR instead of English at university and it opened up a whole world she loved. It's taken her to Harrods and other big brands in the UK and then all the way to Hong Kong, when a trip to visit friends ended up in a 7 year stay and her own business. When she returned to England and to Bristol as a single mum, she didn't think she'd be able to carry on with the world of PR, but how wrong she was. A coach asked her one question which changed the whole way she was looking at life, then she stumbled upon a little PR agency on a back street and her world changed again. Sarah is funny, modest and gives a wonderful insight into life in Hong Kong. She talks about the importance of mentors and she gives some brilliant advice at the end. (I've been using all her tips ever since!) But Sarah's story is a story of women helping women. She shows it really is possible to create a life you love, even if it takes you in all different directions you hadn't planned.

Sam has always loved both Sport and psychology. It's his passion to bring the best out of everyone he works with – and where better to test psychology, he says, than in sport? Because if it fails - well, the results are clear. Since he made a phone call to Colchester United after leaving university – he's worked with all different footballers over the years, he even wrote a book and Cristiano Ronaldo wrote the foreword… (I know!) Today he works with the first team at Wrexham United – yes, that one – the club owned by Hollywood superstars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney and also the subject of the Disney+ documentary, Welcome to Wrexham. But Sam has also created the programmes for our charitable partner, the boxing charity, Empire Fighting Chance. He works with young people who are struggling and is helping to transform so many lives. He says he uses exactly the same methods with a young person in trouble at school as he does with a first team footballer at Wrexham. But Sam's method is different to what I've ever come across (and I've been researching mental health for years). We discussed so much in this conversation including… The best way, he believes, we can encourage our children How, when it comes to our own mental health, he believes we're getting it wrong. The real reason we're struggling to move forward with our Next Chapters What it's really like to have a Hollywood superstar as your boss. I know I'm biased, but I found this conversation fascinating and I cannot recommend it enough for you, your family or for anyone around you. Sam's is a different approach. It's brought great results for world-famous football teams, it's changed lives at Empire and now I'm really hoping it will help you too. To learn more about Sam you can find him at: https://samkotadia.com/ To learn more about our charitable partners Empire Fighting Chance you can find them here: https://empirefightingchance.org/ And my books which are 'fiction therapy' as they feature a therapist in everyone are just here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

What is it really like in the world of celebrity? Lisa has always loved learning about people  - she has been, in her own words ‘nosy' since she was a child. It was this curiosity which took her to journalism and eventually to be the Editor-in-Chief at OK magazine for ten years. She has partied with the Beckhams, she was also with Katie Price when she married Peter Andre. She's been on a boat with George Clooney & Brad Pitt and has spent time with Prince William. She has in other words, been behind the scenes and seen it all. But when the world of celebrity began to change (and not in a good way, she explains), Lisa began to feel it was time to do something else. She also suffered personal heartbreak and then had her own diagnosis to deal with – so she moved from London back to her roots in York. Lisa now runs her own PR consultancy looking after high-end brands like The Ivy restaurants. But she's also a screenwriter and is bringing the stories of inspiring, historical women we've hardly heard of, back to life. Her love of learning about people continues. Lisa is also writing a series on one of the greatest historical mysteries of all time, what happened to the Princes in the Tower? The project - called The Cold King - will be based on the theory that King Edward V was secretly sent to Coldridge in Devon. Lisa is very open, honest and brave in this conversation – we cover all sides of life - and do be warned we touch on some very difficult parts too. But Lisa believes we have to take these tough times and use them to help drive us into our Next Chapters. She believes we are all capable of creating our dreams and the only person standing in our way is us. To learn more about Lisa's work you can find her here: https://www.lisabyrnepr.com/ To learn more about our charitable partners Empire Fighting Chance you can find them here: https://empirefightingchance.org/ And to sign up to my weekly-ish notes (and I'd love that) you can find me and my books here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

Graham had what he describes as a ‘casual relationship' with university, but then again, Graham has always done things ‘slightly differently.' His jobs have included organising snowboarding events while living in the French Alps, working on the Boomtown Festival in Winchester and  being co-founder and Managing director of Wake The Tiger – the world's first amazement park, based in Bristol which attracts hundreds of thousands of people from all over the world. So, what is an amazement park and how do you get millions of pounds of investment when you can't even explain what it is? And, how do you do all this when there is a global pandemic happening too? Some may say it would be impossible – Graham has a different story. He believes it all comes down to how much we believe in what we're doing.  He tells us how he copes with rejection and gets back up time and time again – plus he gives the real story of how Wake The Tiger got it's name. Graham's story shows what really is possible –  he believes anyone can achieve anything and we don't have to always follow the rules.  But he also says it always helps if we've got some wonderful people by our side.

Joanna Toye grew up as an only child surrounded by adults - and she wonders if this is what gave her her love for stories. She's spent her whole career telling them. She worked for decades as a scriptwriter & producer for Radio 4's The Archers, as well as other treasures like Crossroads and EastEnders. But then there was a twist in her own story, and Joanna decided it was time to create her own world - one which suited her and her family. A trip to an exhibition changed everything and she began writing historical saga novels. In this conversation Joanna tells us what it's really like to be a writer of some of the biggest storylines on our biggest soaps (it's fascinating, I promise!). We discuss what happens when real-life doesn't go to plan, plus we discover the inside truth of a story involving EastEnders, Dot Cotton and her recycling.. (cue EastEnder DOOF, DOOF, DOOF, DOOFs). Joanna is open about her own fears and wobbles and she really is a wonderful storyteller. She believes there's no such thing as failure. She also believes we must find a way to be true ourselves because this is what gives us the power to create a world truly meant for us.  To learn more about Joanna and her books you can find her at : https://www.facebook.com/joannatoyewriter/?locale=en_GB To discover more about the work of the boxing charity Empire Fighting Chance you can click here: https://empirefightingchance.org/ And I'd love for you to join my mailing list so we can keep in touch with more of these conversations (and my books too) you can find me here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ (Go on... I know you want to) 

Ruby developed a love for make-up when, as a child, she'd watch her mum dress up for cocktail evenings and dinners where they lived in Nigeria. She later had pictures of models (not pop stars) on her wall – but back then she thought she'd be a doctor, just like her dad. A chance encounter changed everything. Ruby went on to become a leading make-up artist working with supermodels like Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss and Cindy Crawford. She began her own groundbreaking make-up brand ‘Ruby & Millie' with her friend and business partner, Millie - which was sold in Boots. Then, in 2007 Ruby received an MBE for services to the cosmetics industry. You could say Ruby had done more than enough. But after some time out after the passing of her beloved mum – she knew, deep down, she had another Next Chapter - so she launched ‘Ruby Hammer Beauty.' Ruby believes we should never have any regrets. I remember watching Ruby on television when I was a teenager. The Clothes Show cheered Sunday afternoons and I always watched Ruby in awe. She was so cool, poised and oozed glamour. I couldn't quite believe it when she agreed to come on my podcast – but this is who Ruby is – kind, generous, supportive and a big believer in the power of the Next Chapter. She is so full of energy, hope and a love of life, I hope you'll find this conversation a tonic for the soul. To learn more about Ruby you can find her here:  https://rubyhammer.com/ And just in case you were wondering you can find me and my books here: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/bookshop

Nick Hounsfield cannot fail to inspire. He trained as an osteopath and set up the wonderful Family Practice with his wife Juliana, in Bristol. Some would say this was already a big enough dream. But a life-changing event and a Eureka moment gave Nick a vision he could not ignore. He thought it would take two years to build a surfing lake in Bristol. It took ten years and more than twenty-six million pounds. But despite the hurdles, the twists and the turns, nothing stopped him and this vision is now a real destination, visited by people from all over the globe. Nick speaks honestly and bravely about his Next Chapter and how another life-changing event nearly threatened it all. But Nick shows how vision, determination and his six week optimism window has given him a life he and his family love and a place for thousands to enjoy.

One simple conversation and the story which would become one of our biggest musicals and Hollywood films of all time was born. It all started for Catherine when she worked in her local record shop in Yate, S. Gloucs Catherine believes we can all live the dreams meant for us - so long as we learn not to listen to that niggling voice. This episode is brought in partnership with the boxing charity Empire Fighting Chance And in case you wanted to find out more about me and my books I'm right here !

Do you ever get overwhelmed and think there's no place for you? This clip is from Series 8 Episode 1: From Editor of Elle Magazine to Head of Writer Partnerships, Substack: Farrah Storr This wisdom is brought to you in partnership with https://empirefightingchance.org/ - they are fighting to transform young lives.

Matt says he was a quiet boy at school who could often be found in the library – but its this love of learning which has taken him to where he wants to be. First, learning about film and photography, he then worked at the BBC and later went on to create his own video marketing company. But when Covid hit, Matt lost his entire business overnight. His wife, Lori, was pregnant with twins and suddenly their main source of income had gone. But Lori was following her own passion – writing books, so Matt went back to learning. He learnt how to create Facebook ads and get Lori's books out in the world – and my goodness they've done this. They've taken Lori's books to a six-figure business -  all around their young family -  and now Matt's helping other authors to get their books out in the world too. He says he wants to plant a seed in writer's minds to show them what's possible. He's done exactly this with me which is why I wanted to introduce him to you. Because whether your passion is books or living a life where you simply do more of what you love – Matt believes it really is possible. It's not just about learning, but applying what you learn too. He says it's all about deciding what direction we really want to go in and he gives some  wonderful advice to help us work out how. To learn more about Matt you can find him here: https://www.matthewjholmes.com/ And you can find me and my books (in case you were wondering: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

Lynn Jinks has always been fascinated by people's energy. She loved to act and so she studied drama at university. She loved appearing on stage and also co-founded a theatre company which gave voices to disadvantaged women and girls. She then moved into television presenting and worked on a shopping channel selling jewellery. It was here she developed her love for gems and began to look at how they affected our energy. She trained as a Crystal Healer and Spiritual Life Coach, and now after 20 years, she's leaving the ‘golden handcuffs' of a stable job, as she describes it - and will be working as a Healer & Coach, full-time. Now, whether you think it's all a bit woo-woo or not, this conversation is fascinating. Lynn tells us how she's helped people get over severe pain, change directions completely and leave behind old patterns and versions of themselves - just by ‘cleansing their energy.' In this conversation we also discuss: The effect of people-pleasing on our energy How unhelpful patterns are keeping us stuck And what really makes us happy? (The answer to the above is not as simple as you think.) Lynn is a joy to speak with - she's honest, a little tough and full of love and life. She believes we all have the answers deep inside us, even if they're not what we want to hear. Plus there was a ‘spooky' moment of our own as we recorded this conversation. Was it the woo-woo? I'll let you decide. To get in touch with Lynn you can find her at: https://www.crystalenergyempowerment.co.uk/ And you can find me and my books at: https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/

Lauren has always been determined. She had posters of supermodels on her wall as a child and always wanted to work at Vogue when she was growing up. She did this and spent years there as its news editor – going to fashion shows, writing articles and interviewing some of the biggest names in the industry – and yes, she did meet those supermodels. But when Lauren had her own children she began to think she needed a change. She became a Doula and she now supports mothers and fathers as their babies come into the world. She's helped many different families including the radio presenter Mollie King and her husband Stuart Broad. Now, working at Vogue and being a Doula may seem like two completely different worlds – but Lauren explains how she has been able to use so much of what she learned in her first chapter. She also gives some brilliant advice at the end of this episode about tackling fear - the same advice she uses when helping women about to give birth. Lauren gives us a wonderful look behind the scenes at one of our biggest fashion magazines. But she also knew what it was time to leave and she shares how she made the difficult decision to leave the life she'd wanted for so long, for something which suited her, her husband and her four children now. Lauren has created a life ,she truly and she shares some wonderful wisdoms to help us all do the same.  To learn more about Lauren you can find her here: www.thebarnesdoula.com To learn more about our partners Empire Fighting Chance: https://empirefightingchance.org/ And to sign up to my mailing list (and I'd love this!) I'm at elliebarkerwrites.com

Lindsay hasn't just had one next chapter. She's had several – from playing badminton for Scotland as a child, to working in sports journalism, singing in bars around Scotland and working in PR. She's now using everything she's learned in her work as a body confidence coach – which she decided to train as when she saw so many wonderful women in her life struggling. She has her own podcast and over the years she says she's worked with thousands of people helping them to feel happier within themselves and improve their self-acceptance. Lindsay believes we all have it in us to ‘shine' and it's all about how we feel.  But she believes the ‘feeling' we're all hoping for always comes after the action. The feeling of wholeness, peace and contentment - however that looks for us. Whatever it is we're putting off, is no doubt the very thing we need to do. She believes deep down we all know what we need to feel our best, whether it's a little more exercise, changing our diet or leaving a job which is making us miserable. It's the thoughts that are holding us back, but when we question where did those thoughts come from and are they really true?… well, we can push them aside, a bit like the clouds - and the sun they've been hiding can begin to shine again. 

Welcome to a first for The Next Chapter. Our first Next, Next Chapter Episode!!! I am delighted and thrilled to welcome back one of my first and very special guests: John Scott. All my Next Chapter guests are special but those who came on in the very first series are extra special as they had no idea what this podcast was – or if I could do what I hoped I'd do. John's appearance was S1 Ep2. (I would highly recommend you listen to this if you haven't already.) He's brilliant, fun and what a story. We talk about life as a Hollywood costume maker when he worked on films like Four weddings and a Funeral, Notting Hill, Tomb Raider and some of the Bond films. Then, he was a regular face on national television shows like Lorraine and This Morning and when I last spoke to him, he was hosting his own sewing channel and show. Since then, it's no surprise John has had even more Next Chapters – including writing and publishing a book (which sold out in minutes) and now he's starting his very own television platform called Threads of Life. It's exciting, ground breaking and brilliant- just like John. In this episode he tells us how there is an actual real-life Princess John Scott in the world (I kid you not), how he manages his energy and why he has no plans to stop yet, in fact looking into the future may be another Next Chapter - watch this space. John has one of the warmest and most engaged audiences I've known on this podcast – which I suppose is no surprise. He is so supportive, wonderful and engaged too. I am so honoured to have him back here again.   To learn more about John's brilliant new platform go to www.threadsoflife.tv   And in case you were wondering you can learn about me and my books at www.elliebarkerwrites.com

Kathy had a huge job in advertising which took her all over the world. But behind the glamour and fabulous hotels Kathy was suffering from burnout. One routine trip to the doctors changed everything – I'll let Kathy tell you what happened but Kathy knew she had to make a change. This change she found was in vegetables. Yes, vegetables! Gorgeous, colourful, wonderful veg. Her fascination of watching them grow and then creating delicious recipes with them, it turned out was the medicine she needed. When she was better, she went to cookery school and then became a food writer. Kathy created a wonderful website and has had partnerships with places like Waitrose. She wrote a cookbook From The Veg Patch which was named one of Delicious Magazines Top Picks of 2021, she takes part in festivals and has also held regular supper clubs. Plus she has a wonderful blog  - Tales From A Veg Patch filled with wonderful recipes for us all. Kathy is open, honest and brave. She tells us what life really was like in the world of advertising (i.e was it like Madmen?) and the reality of life as a freelancer. But best of all Kathy shows even in the darkest moments, we can find light, sunshine and even a new path to a whole new life You can find out all about Kathy at: https://www.kathyslack.com/ And just in case you were wondering you can find me and my books at elliebarkerwrites.com

S11 Ep 2: From 60 Minute Makeover & A bottle of vodka a day to Sobriety Coach: Dave Wilson If you ever watched 60 Minute Makeover with Peter Andre – you may remember a lovely carpet fitter called Dave Wilson. But what we didn't see was Dave was hiding a big drinking problem and at one stage he was drinking a litre of vodka a night. Then, one day when he was 54 years old, everything changed. I'll let Dave tell you what happened but five years ago he stopped drinking and he's never looked back. He has his own podcast called One For the Road (which has around 10,000 downloads a week), he interviews celebrities, world experts and shares stories of all different people and how they've overcome their struggles. He's also written a bestselling book, he has a huge following on social media and he works a coach – helping mainly women with what he describes as grey area drinking. Dave believes we all tell ourselves a story, like he did. He could never live without drinking, he would lose his friends if he gave it up and he'd never be happy again. But it turned out the opposite happened. He didn't lose a life, he gained one. He has more friends, more adventure and more joy than he ever did when he drank. Dave believe there's always hope – and we do have the power to make change  – but this starts with changing those stories we tell ourselves, about everything, not just how much we drink. This conversation had a huge impact on me (and something very odd happened in the lead up to Dave appearing… I explain in the episode, but thank you again Universe). I hope this conversation will help you as much as it has helped me. To learn more about Dave and his wonderful work you can find him here: https://www.soberdave.co.uk/ To learn more about Empire Fighting Chance and their brilliant work you can find them here: https://www.empirefightingchance.org/ And just in case you were wondering you can learn more about me and my books at https://www.elliebarkerwrites.com/ x

Louise Ross loved reading and storytelling as a child but she had her heart set on being a lawyer. She became a barrister and while she loved helping people -she started to feel it was time to do something else.  (In fact speaking of skies, it was when she realised her head was always down and she never looked up and appreciated a blue sky, she knew something had to change).  Her husband James planted a seed on a train journey which changed everything. That tiny seed led to Louise writing 27 books and selling  more than 10 million copies. She has her own publishing label (Dark Skies Publishing) and her work is also helping celebrate people living in the North East. Her books have been among the biggest sellers on Amazon and at one point 16 of them were in the top 50 in the charts. But Louise believes it has nothing to do with algorithms, large advertising budgets or any trends or secret formulas .  Louise believes we must all ask ourselves this one question and be completely honest with the answer... What is it that we really want to achieve?  (I'll let you listen to find out how this helped her so much.) Louise is humble, gracious and so generous with her thoughts. She has been a big inspiration to me for so long – but even if your next chapter isn't about writing, Louise's approach has helped her create a wonderful life for her and her family and she believes we're all able to do the same. https://ljrossauthor.com/ (and just in case you'd forgotten you can find me and my books at elliebarkerwrites.com x)

If you're suffering from Christmas overwhelm, it's time to put those headphones on, maybe even go for a little fresh air and let coach and author Joanne Mallon guide you through. In this week's episode we talk about: How to cope with Christmas overwhelm Why we must embrace the imperfections of this time of year Why it's sensory overload and all sorts of triggers are going off And how to cope with those tricky relatives Joanne Mallon is a Media Coach with over 20 years of experience and the author of 8 books including How to Find Calm in Five Minutes a Day. Here's her work: https://joannemallon.com/ And just in case you were wondering you can find me at elliebarkerwrites.com

Joanne Mallon 'quite' enjoyed her job as a television producer working on shows like Vanessa, This Morning & GMTV. But she wanted to do something she loved which had a much deeper meaning so more than 20 years ago she trained to be coach.  She's spent the past 2 decades helping people not just discover what it is they want to do it, but to find a way to actually do it. She's also the host of her own podcast - 5 Minutes To Change your Life… Full disclosure, I love this podcast. She discusses all sorts of problems: from people-pleasing, negative thinking, trying to control everything - and gives some simple tips in just 5 minutes. Joanne believes we all have a calling and we owe it to ourselves (and everyone around us) to be kind enough to listen to it. She gives some great advice about fear, how it drives most of us but how we can step around it. And she gives some wonderful practical festive advice.  I appreciate there's not a lot of time at the moment so I've divided the episode into two. Today's episode is her story. Then next week she'll give some brilliant festive advice, like coping with overwhelm and those tricky relatives.  Joanne has a lovely, calming wisdom about her. I loved my conversation with her and I really hope it'll help you too.  You can find Joanne at Joannemallon.com And you can find me and my books at elliebarkerwrites.com

Annie Garthwaite loved history as a child.  She went to a comp in Hartlepool where in her words, if you got 3 CSE's your name would go on the wall.  Annie then, would never have believed that one she'd day be an historical fiction author. But thanks to a love of reading shared from her mother and a wonderful history teacher, Annie decided this was what she really wanted to be in. Only in her twenties, she discovered it was much harder than she imagined, so she decided to set aside her dream until the age of 55.   The idea being she'd spend the next 3 decades earning enough money to retire and then she'd write the book she'd been planning. I mean what 20 something-year-old really keeps such a plan? Annie did.   I'll let Annie tell you how, but her fascination with strong women in history and one in particular has been her driving force for so many years. Annie had been learning about Cecily Neville since the classroom, the mother of Richard III who had 12 children, played a key role in the War of the Roses and lived until she was 81 (in the 15th Century!) But her story had never been told.   The more Annie learned about Cecily, and the longer she sat in the boardrooms of her huge corporate Communications job, Annie realised life for women hadn't changed nearly as much as she'd thought. Annie believes we must keep telling women's stories to help bring the change we need. But Annie is also a strong, passionate woman and it's an honour to share her story with you. You can find out more about Annie and Cecily at: https://www.anniegarthwaite.com/ And just in case you were wondering you can find out more about me and my books at elliebarkewrites.com (Thank you to my lovely listener Lesley Hannah who wanted a guest whose Next Chapter was in history. I hope you enjoy Annie's conversation. And do remember if there's any guest you'd like to hear from, please get in touch and I promise I'll at least ask.)

A few years ago if you'd met Michal it would have been easy to think she was one of those women who ‘had it all.' A huge job - Head of Global Culture at Tik Tok, (I know!), the mother of 4 beautiful children, a wonderful husband plus, a wardrobe full of designer clothes. But inside she was struggling – really struggling with terrible anxiety. She'd been in therapy for 15 years and going over the past - while informative was not helping this awful feeling. But then she began to study Jewish wisdoms and everything changed. Michal learned so much she's written a book called What Would You Do If You Weren't Afraid. Michal is so open, honest and generous with her thoughts in this conversation. She tells us what life is really like at those great big tech companies and how some of the biggest leaders who she still coaches have just the same insecurities as us all. Michal was told several times not to be herself. But thankfully she didn't listen. She says it's only by putting aside fear and being true self- you find your place in the world.  You can find Michal's work at: https://www.michaloshman.com/  And just in case you've forgotten (how very dare you?)  you can find me and my books at www.elliebarkerwrites.com x