In this episode of the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast, Jo interviews Julia Collins, founder of Collins and Green Art, a vintage art gallery based in West London. Julia shares her journey of transitioning from a 15-year career in finance to pursuing her passion for art after a 20-year sabbatical to raise her family. After her children left for university, Julia started Collins and Green Art, which has grown into a thriving business. She talks about the challenges and rewards of starting a business later in life, the importance of having a supportive team, and leveraging social media for business growth. Julia also offers advice to fellow midlife entrepreneurs and emphasises the importance of following one's passion.00:00 Introduction to the Midlife Entrepreneur Podcast00:34 Julia Collins' Journey from Finance to Art01:14 The Birth of Collins and Green Art02:05 Balancing Family and Business03:54 Navigating Instagram and Online Sales06:14 Challenges and Triumphs in Business15:02 Building a Community and Networking18:44 Overcoming Technological Hurdles22:33 Reflecting on Business Chaos and Team Dynamics22:53 Hiring and Motivating the Team23:23 Defining Success and Business Growth23:59 Marketing Strategies: Word of Mouth and Instagram25:51 Overcoming Fear and Embracing Passion31:05 Balancing Family and Entrepreneurship32:53 Challenges and Progress for Women in Business36:38 Three Investments, Two Regrets, One Thank You41:34 Final Thoughts and EncouragementJulia's 3,2,1s:3 things you've invested in that have been worth every penny:1. My website, it was designed by Catherine Elphick at Elphick & Co. 2. My team, the gallery assistants, framer, accountant.3. Comp cards - a business and notecard in one2 things you wished you'd done differently:1. Started earlier but in a small way so that I could have built it slowly over time. 2. Set up the business with a partner - too late now, but I would have liked to work with someone who's skills could have complimented mine. 1 person you'd like to thank:I'm going to break the 'not a family member' rule and say my mother. She started two businesses in the days where women didn't do that kind of thing, and has always been my inspiration. Edited and produced by Jo Glynn-Smith 2025. Recorded at Eight Works Podcast Studios, 1 Dysart Street, London, EC2A 2BXFor bookings:
[email protected] Jo Glynn-Smith is an entrepreneur, professional coach, writer, and speaker from London, she is an expert 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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