The Midlife Entrepreneur

• S1, EP6: Abigail Wilmore HR Specialist, CEO and Founder of People Flow

  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 Podcast01:20 Abigail Wilmore's Career Journey02:37 Discovering a Passion for HR03:47 Climbing the Corporate Ladder10:47 The Birth of People Flow14:57 Challenges in HR and the Importance of Community20:28 Future Plans and Personal Healing Journey28:27 Heart-Centered Purpose in PeopleFlow29:39 The Gradual Process of Finding Purpose30:59 Gender Dynamics in HR33:06 Challenges of Running a Business37:25 The Power of Community and Networking40:27 Three, Two, Ones: Final Advice and Reflections46:13 Conclusion and FarewellAbigail's 3,2,1s3 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:​Access Settings & Privacy:Click Me icon, top of homepage.​Select Settings & Privacy from dropdown menu.​Navigate to Data Privacy:In Settings & Privacy page, click Data privacy tab.​Request Your Data Archive:Under How LinkedIn uses your data section, click Get a copy of your data.​Choose Connections to export your contacts.​Click Request archive.​Download Your Contacts:LinkedIn will process your request and send an email to your registered email address.LinkedIn’s contact download process aligns with GDPR, with exceptions. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: [email protected] Jo is a professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, specialising in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmithContact: [email protected] CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

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• S1, EP5: Kirsty Raper Instagram Specialist, Founder of Rebuildagram and Co-Founder of Reels Rockstars

  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 Podcast00:15 Meet Kirsty Raper: Instagram Specialist00:29 Kirsty's Journey to Rebuildagram01:24 The Impact of Social Media Training01:45 Kirsty's Passion for Instagram02:24 From PR to Social Media Expert04:20 Personal Tragedy and Career Shift06:26 Starting a Business in Midlife11:11 Balancing Work and Family14:43 The Challenges of Entrepreneurship21:29 The Power of Cold Water Therapy22:28 Collaborating with Andie McDowell25:19 Running Courses and Workshops25:40 The Joy of Collaboration26:26 Different Skills, Same Goal27:57 Instagram and Community Building34:26 Success and Ambition35:28 Future Goals and Reflections40:17 Advice for Entrepreneurs44:05 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 GPT3.          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. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: [email protected] Jo is a professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, specialising in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmithContact: [email protected] CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

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• S1, EP4: Anna Mason, Creative Director and Founder of Anna Mason London

  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 Podcast00:15 Anna Mason's Early Career and Inspirations01:28 Launching the Anna Mason Label01:45 Defining the Anna Mason Brand04:44 Balancing Family and Business07:02 Overcoming Early Business Challenges09:40 Creative Process and Inspirations16:53 Navigating the Fashion Industry27:45 Sustainability and Timeless Fashion30:44 The Journey of Building a Fashion Business31:00 Overcoming Challenges and Scaling the Business33:31 The Complexities of Garment Production36:11 Advice for Aspiring Fashion Entrepreneurs43:32 Reflecting on Success and Resilience49:52 The Importance of Health and Fitness51:20 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations53:42 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.comEdited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: [email protected] Jo is a professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, specialising in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmithContact: [email protected] CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

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  55:23
• S1, EP3: Sasha Wilkins, Broadcaster, Journalist, Antiques Dealer and Founder of Found by Sasha Wilkins

  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 Podcast00:15 Introducing Sasha Wilkins: A Multifaceted Career02:26 Sasha's Neurodivergence and Its Impact03:11 Journey into Journalism and Broadcasting05:20 The Birth of Liberty London Girl10:46 Transition to Instagram and Found13:58 Bootstrapping and Business Advice21:38 The Importance of Mentorship and Learning26:47 The Magic of Found and the Barn29:03 Leveraging Social Media for Business32:25 The Reality of Social Media Standards33:16 Repurposing Content for Growth33:55 Challenges of Running a Business35:03 Balancing Work and Personal Life36:12 Building a Business from Scratch38:34 The Importance of Self-Belief41:13 Navigating Career Transitions45:16 The Power of Research and Planning51:56 Investing in Health and Business56:33 Family Support and Future Plans59:02 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 customers2.          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 back3.          My barn – not only is it a beautiful backdrop to my antiques, but 40% of my business is by private appointment2 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 side2.          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! Found by Sasha Wilkins, Unit two, Manor Farm, Winstone, in the Cotswolds between Cirencester and Cheltenham, by appointment only www.foundbysashawilkins.co.ukInstagram @foundbysashawilkinsYouTube https://youtube.com/@foundbysashawilninsantiquesEdited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: [email protected] Jo is a professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, specialising in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmithContact: [email protected] CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

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  59:43
• S1, EP2: Juliet Fallowfield, PR & Podcast Consultant and Founder of Fallowfield & Mason

  Starting Over: A Midlife Entrepreneur's Journey with Juliet FallowfieldIn 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 Podcast00:23 Juliet Fallowfield's Career Journey02:40 The Turning Point: Personal and Professional Challenges04:32 Starting a Business During a Pandemic06:43 Launching the 'How to Start Up' Podcast08:39 The Advantages and Challenges of Midlife Entrepreneurship12:47 PR and Podcasting Services at Fallowfield and Mason15:04 The Importance of Storytelling in Business18:40 Navigating Sales and Client Relationships22:01 The Importance of Asking for Help22:37 Embracing Midlife Challenges and Blessings24:18 Recognising Your Value and Pricing Strategies26:06 The Power of Energy and Pro Bono Work28:31 Navigating Business Growth and Economic Challenges31:08 Self-Discovery and Financial Planning36:21 Burnout and the Feather-Brick-Truck Theory38:25 Gratitude and Lessons from Redundancy40:39 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 loss2.          The Team who are fantastic and inspire her every day3.          Flights, she loves travel2 things you wish you’d done differently:1.           Looked after myself and not burnt out2.          listened to myself and my body more, prioritised self-care1 person you’d like to thank: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.comInstagram @fallowfieldmasonJuliet's podcast is called 'How to Start Up' listen wherever you get your podcastsEdited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings: [email protected] Jo is a professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, specialising in career transformation and change. Instagram @jojoglynnsmithContact: [email protected] CREDIT Easy Money by REX BANNER licensed by Artlist.ioPHOTOGRAPHY by JONATHAN GLYNN-SMITH www.jonathanglynnsmith.com

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