The Midlife Entrepreneur (Jo Glynn-Smith)
Explorez tous les épisodes de The Midlife Entrepreneur
| Date | Titre | Durée | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 24 Sep 2024 | Welcome to The Midlife Entrepreneur | 00:01:43 | |
This is a show that’s all about building a business in midlife. At a time when many of us will be living into our 100s and possibly working into our 80s, career pivoting in midlife is not going to be just a trend, it will become a necessity. Each episode Jo will be sitting down with a different business owner to explore their personal stories and learn from their business journeys. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | S1, EP1: Jennifer Mo, Nutritional Formulations Expert and Co-Founder of Pura Collagen | 00:59:32 | |
Building a Nutritional Brand: Jennifer Mo on the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast In this episode, Jo interviews Jennifer Mo, a nutritional formulations expert and co-founder of the award-winning brand Pura Collagen. Jennifer shares her extensive background in sports nutrition, anatomy, and bioscience, highlighting her journey from a college athlete to a professional working with elite athletes and specialized military personnel. She discusses the inception and growth of Pura Collagen, a brand focused on scientifically formulated collagen supplements for skin, hair, nails, and joint health. Jennifer's story emphasises the challenges and triumphs of building a business in midlife, including the importance of PR, regulatory compliance, and investing in your team. The conversation also explores the personal sacrifices and resilience required to succeed as an entrepreneur, while touching on themes like the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, work-life balance, and the value of mentorship.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:14 Meet Jennifer Mo: From Sports Nutrition to Pura Collagen 01:39 Jennifer's Journey: From Aspiring Doctor to Nutritional Expert 03:06 The Science Behind Supplements: Jennifer's Early Fascination 06:19 From Retail to Military: Jennifer's Career Evolution 10:23 Corporate Challenges and Personal Growth 13:17 The Pandemic Pivot: Birth of Pura Collagen 14:32 Building Pura Collagen: From Kitchen Experiments to Market 23:08 Launching Pura Collagen: Overcoming Initial Hurdles 26:42 Pura Collagen's Unique Approach and Market Strategy 29:15 Understanding Product and Packaging 29:48 Addressing Menopause with Innovative Products 33:04 Challenges of Starting a Business in Midlife 34:49 The Impact of the Pandemic on Career Choices 37:01 The Entrepreneurial Spirit and Overcoming Fear 38:37 The Importance of Mentorship and Team Building 43:36 Navigating Financial Challenges and Growth 44:52 Joining Forces with a Larger Brand 46:39 Reflections on the Entrepreneurial Journey 48:10 Quickfire Questions and Final Thoughts 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. PR – to help get cut through in a crowded industry 2. Legal experts to look at labelling and packaging information 3. Team – especially investing relationships outside of the workplace 2 things you wish you’d done differently: 1. Had a better understanding of equity and fund raising 2. Not allowed friends and family to invest – too much pressure, you don’t want to let them down. 1 person you’d like to thank: 1. CEO, 24 Hr Fitness, Mark Mastrov for understanding how to support women, for guidance and access to his knowledge. Also, Barry De Vilbiss, VP Retail at the same time – taught me about retail and shifting product. Pura Collagen www.puracollagen.co.uk Instagram @puracollagen @vectorconsumer Edited and p Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | S1, EP2: Juliet Fallowfield, PR & Podcast Consultant and Founder of Fallowfield & Mason | 00:41:04 | |
Starting Over: A Midlife Entrepreneur's Journey with Juliet Fallowfield In this episode, Jo interviews Juliet Fallowfield, a seasoned PR professional and podcaster with over 25 years of experience with luxury brands like Burberry, Chanel, and De Beers. Juliet shares her transition from a corporate career to founding her own PR and podcast consultancy, Fallowfield and Mason, in 2020 amidst personal and professional upheaval. They discuss the advantages of starting a business in midlife, the importance of self-knowledge and financial planning, and the unique challenges faced by midlife entrepreneurs. Juliet elaborates on how her podcast 'How to Start Up' was born out of her desire to help others by sharing her journey and the wisdom she garnered from numerous entrepreneurial friends.
00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:23 Juliet Fallowfield's Career Journey 02:40 The Turning Point: Personal and Professional Challenges 04:32 Starting a Business During a Pandemic 06:43 Launching the 'How to Start Up' Podcast 08:39 The Advantages and Challenges of Midlife Entrepreneurship 12:47 PR and Podcasting Services at Fallowfield and Mason 15:04 The Importance of Storytelling in Business 18:40 Navigating Sales and Client Relationships 22:01 The Importance of Asking for Help 22:37 Embracing Midlife Challenges and Blessings 24:18 Recognising Your Value and Pricing Strategies 26:06 The Power of Energy and Pro Bono Work 28:31 Navigating Business Growth and Economic Challenges 31:08 Self-Discovery and Financial Planning 36:21 Burnout and the Feather-Brick-Truck Theory 38:25 Gratitude and Lessons from Redundancy 40:39 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Juliet’s 3,2,1: 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. Counselling to support her through grief and loss 2. The Team who are fantastic and inspire her every day 3. Flights, she loves travel
1. Looked after myself and not burnt out 2. listened to myself and my body more, prioritised self-care
1. The Graff’s for making me redundant, without which I wouldn’t be here with you today. Fallowfield and Mason PR and Podcasting Consultancy www.fallowfieldmason.com Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 14 Jan 2025 | S1, EP3: Sasha Wilkins, Broadcaster, Journalist, Antiques Dealer and Founder of Found by Sasha Wilkins | 00:59:43 | |
Sasha Wilkins: From Fashion Journalism to Found by Sasha Wilkins In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo speaks with Sasha Wilkins, a renowned journalist, broadcaster, author, and founder of Found by Sasha Wilkins, an antiques business specialising in 19th-century English ceramics. Sasha discusses her diverse career, from her pioneering days of blogging with Liberty London Girl to her latest venture in antiques. She shares her journey with dyspraxia and ADHD, the importance of curiosity, and how she has adapted her skills across various industries. The conversation delves into the challenges of starting a business in midlife, the value of personal branding in social media, and the practical aspects of operating an antiques business, including invaluable tips for new entrepreneurs. 00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:15 Introducing Sasha Wilkins: A Multifaceted Career 02:26 Sasha's Neurodivergence and Its Impact 03:11 Journey into Journalism and Broadcasting 05:20 The Birth of Liberty London Girl 10:46 Transition to Instagram and Found 13:58 Bootstrapping and Business Advice 21:38 The Importance of Mentorship and Learning 26:47 The Magic of Found and the Barn 29:03 Leveraging Social Media for Business 32:25 The Reality of Social Media Standards 33:16 Repurposing Content for Growth 33:55 Challenges of Running a Business 35:03 Balancing Work and Personal Life 36:12 Building a Business from Scratch 38:34 The Importance of Self-Belief 41:13 Navigating Career Transitions 45:16 The Power of Research and Planning 51:56 Investing in Health and Business 56:33 Family Support and Future Plans 59:02 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
Sasha’s 3,2,1: 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. Business card/ postcard hybrid - doubles as both, saves money and means I can write notes on them for customers 2. My physical health – I have a trainer once a week and see the osteopath once a month, I need to be fit for what I do, and injury would hold me back 3. My barn – not only is it a beautiful backdrop to my antiques, but 40% of my business is by private appointment 2 things you wish you’d done differently: 1. I would have done more research about my industry before I started the business, but timing was not on my side 2. I would have created more personal content around my brand right from the beginning 1 person you’d like to thank: 1. Lisa from the Miserden Estate who I wrote to in Feb 2021 and who got back to me in Sept 2021 with the offer of my barn – she saved my sanity! Thank you! Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 11 Feb 2025 | S1, EP4: Anna Mason, Creative Director and Founder of Anna Mason London | 00:55:23 | |
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur podcast, Jo interviews Anna Mason, a fashion designer and entrepreneur from London. Anna shares her inspiring journey, starting from her early aspirations to her education at the Royal College in London, and working with fashion giants like Karl Lagerfeld, Max Mara, and Valentino. Anna talks about the challenges and triumphs of launching her own label in 2012, juggling family life, and overcoming failures in her early career. She emphasises the importance of quality materials, the creative process, and the resilience needed to run a fashion business. Anna also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of starting a business in midlife, her inspirations, and her aspirations for scaling her brand. The episode concludes with Anna reflecting on the emotional challenges and proud moments of her entrepreneurial journey. 00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:15 Anna Mason's Early Career and Inspirations 01:28 Launching the Anna Mason Label 01:45 Defining the Anna Mason Brand 04:44 Balancing Family and Business 07:02 Overcoming Early Business Challenges 09:40 Creative Process and Inspirations 16:53 Navigating the Fashion Industry 27:45 Sustainability and Timeless Fashion 30:44 The Journey of Building a Fashion Business 31:00 Overcoming Challenges and Scaling the Business 33:31 The Complexities of Garment Production 36:11 Advice for Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs 43:32 Reflecting on Success and Resilience 49:52 The Importance of Health and Fitness 51:20 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations 53:42 Gratitude and Final Thoughts
Anna’s 3,2,1: 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. My pattern cutting table – it felt like huge investment at the time, but has been worth every penny. 2. The right people, they are worth their weight in gold and if I could pay them more, I would. 3. My commitment to health and fitness. I go to lots of exercise classes and have recently invested in a massage every six weeks or so – it’s rejuvenation for my soul! 2 things you wish you’d done differently: 1. I wish I had been able to invest more money at the front end of my business, it just never occurred to me that it would help so much. 2. Someone to run the business alongside me, I could really do with that logical analytical brain to back my creativity.
1 person you’d like to thank: 1. Jonathan Glynn-Smith, he’s an amazing photographer, friend and collaborator www.jonathanglynnsmith.com Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 27 Feb 2025 | S1, EP5: Kirsty Raper Instagram Specialist, Founder of Rebuildagram and Co-Founder of Reels Rockstars | 00:45:33 | |
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur, Jo sits down with Instagram specialist Kirsty Raper, founder of Rebuildagram and Co-founder of Reels Rockstars. Kirsty discusses her journey from a City career in PR and communications to launching a social media training business during the pandemic. She shares personal stories including the tragic loss of her husband, the challenges of single parenthood, and how these experiences reshaped her career path. Kirsty also delves into her passion for Instagram, the impact of her social media courses, and her successful partnership with Andie McDowell on Reels Rockstars. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, adaptability, and the power of community in driving entrepreneurial success in midlife. 00:00 Welcome to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:15 Meet Kirsty Raper: Instagram Specialist 00:29 Kirsty's Journey to Rebuildagram 01:24 The Impact of Social Media Training 01:45 Kirsty's Passion for Instagram 02:24 From PR to Social Media Expert 04:20 Personal Tragedy and Career Shift 06:26 Starting a Business in Midlife 11:11 Balancing Work and Family 14:43 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship 21:29 The Power of Cold Water Therapy 22:28 Collaborating with Andie McDowell 25:19 Running Courses and Workshops 25:40 The Joy of Collaboration 26:26 Different Skills, Same Goal 27:57 Instagram and Community Building 34:26 Success and Ambition 35:28 Future Goals and Reflections 40:17 Advice for Entrepreneurs 44:05 Gratitude and Closing Thoughts
Kirsty’s 3,2,1: 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. People – we have a team of virtual PAs who are amazing, a brilliant web developer and a community manager - they manage all the stiff we don’t have time to do and we couldn’t live without them. 2. Tech – Canva is a life saver and so is Chat GPT 3. Cold water plunge pod – been a wellness game changer
2 things you wish you’d done differently: 1. I only have one – I wish I had started earlier!
1 person you’d like to thank: 1. Andie McDowell @dahliabeach my business partner and friend who makes me laugh every day and lifts me up when I feel down. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 11 Mar 2025 | S1, EP6: Abigail Wilmore HR Specialist, CEO and Founder of People Flow | 00:47:11 | |
In this episode of The Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo Glynn-Smith interviews Abigail Wilmore, a prominent HR leader, CEO and founder of People Flow. Abigail shares her career journey from starting at the shop floor to becoming a Chief People Officer at top fashion brands like Tom Ford and Stella McCartney. She discusses the inspiration behind her career shift to HR, the challenges she faced, and her dedication to heart-centered leadership. Abigail also delves into her healing journey over the past 15 years and how it has shaped her approach to leadership. Furthermore, she reveals how the pandemic led her to found People Flow, a community designed to support HR professionals by providing a space to discuss workplace challenges and mental health issues. This insightful conversation is filled with valuable advice for midlife entrepreneurs and HR professionals alike. 00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 01:20 Abigail Wilmore's Career Journey 02:37 Discovering a Passion for HR 03:47 Climbing the Corporate Ladder 10:47 The Birth of People Flow 14:57 Challenges in HR and the Importance of Community 20:28 Future Plans and Personal Healing Journey 28:27 Heart-Centered Purpose in PeopleFlow 29:39 The Gradual Process of Finding Purpose 30:59 Gender Dynamics in HR 33:06 Challenges of Running a Business 37:25 The Power of Community and Networking 40:27 Three, Two, Ones: Final Advice and Reflections 46:13 Conclusion and Farewell Abigail's 3,2,1s 3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. Investing in my own healing and making sure I've got money to put to that. 2. Investing in creativity, whether it be art or dancing. 3. Fenella, my assistant. Wouldn't be where I am without her. 2 things you wish you'd done differently. 1. I wish I had a better understanding of accountancy and the financials. 2. I wish I had a better development programme for myself. 1 person you'd like to thank: 1. Fenella, my assistant. Without her, I don't think the community would exist in the way that it does. Thank you To download your LinkedIn contacts:
LinkedIn’s contact download process aligns with GDPR, with exceptions. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||
| 25 Mar 2025 | S1, EP7: Gabby O'Connor, Founder of Iris Organics | 00:47:30 | |
In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, host Jo talks to Gabby O'Connor, Founder of Iris Organics, an independent organic candle and diffuser business. Gabby shares her journey from an HR and recruitment career in London to motherhood in Buckinghamshire, where she developed her passion for alternative medicines and essential oils into a thriving business. She speaks candidly about the challenges and rewards of balancing family life with entrepreneurship, the importance of using natural products, and how she leverages social media and community connections to grow her business. Gabby also emphasises the significance of supporting small, female-led businesses and offers advice to those considering starting their own ventures. Key highlight moments include a feature by ITV's beauty editor, Sarah Jossel and collaborations with influencers.
00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast 00:37 Gabby's Journey from HR to Iris Organics 01:48 Discovering the Power of Alternative Medicines 04:25 The Birth of Iris Organics 08:32 Balancing Business and Family Life 12:27 Challenges and Rewards of Running a Small Business 15:52 The Importance of Technology and Learning New Skills 22:08 The Realities of Being a Midlife Entrepreneur 25:55 Pinch Me Moments: Reflecting on Success 26:09 The Journey to Unique Branding 26:55 Overcoming Business Challenges 28:01 The Power of Asking and Networking 28:59 Celebrity Endorsements and Media Highlights 32:47 Outsourcing and Business Growth 33:36 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 34:47 The Importance of Passion and Balance 41:45 Building a Community and Engaging Customers 43:47 Final Thoughts and Gratitude
Gabby’s 3,2,1 : 3 things you’ve invested in that have been worth every penny: 1. Shopify – amazing for analytics and sales info 2. Web developer – Katie contact Gabby for her details 3. Social media training
2 things you wish you could have done differently: 1. Start earlier - but would I have had the confidence? Who knows. 2. I don’t think there was another one – oops, my bad!
1 person you’d like to thank: Sarah Jossel, beauty journalist and broadcaster for mentioning my candles on This Morning during lockdown. It’s so powerful to have somebody advocating for you. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. | |||