In this thirty-sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Sue Chalmers – founder of Willow & Hen and former motor industry professional turned lifestyle store owner.

After years working in the motor industry, Sue reached a point where she knew she wanted to build something more aligned with who she was. That intention led her to open Willow & Hen – the calm, community-focused lifestyle store she’d dreamed about since she was young.

Sue’s journey is a beautiful example of following your interests, trusting your timing and allowing your business to evolve naturally. She speaks openly about what it was really like to step out of a fast-paced, male-dominated industry into the world of mindful retail, the lessons she’s learned along the way, and the joy of building a business that feels purposeful and personal.

In this conversation, Alex and Sue explore:

• transitioning from the motor industry to running a lifestyle store

• the early influences that shaped her entrepreneurial path

• creating a business rooted in community and connection

• sourcing products locally and working with purpose

• the evolution of Willow & Hen over time

• navigating change with resilience and curiosity

• building a business that feels calm, intentional and aligned

• what it really takes to follow a long-held dream

Whether you’re thinking about a career shift, dreaming of a more creative path, or wanting to build a business that feels like you, Sue’s story is an inspiring reminder that it’s never too late to create something meaningful.

[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Sue [02:10] From the motor industry to mindful retail [06:45] The early influences behind Willow & Hen [11:20] Creating community through a lifestyle store [16:00] Sourcing locally and working with purpose [21:05] Building a business that evolves with you [26:30] Lessons learned from navigating major career change [31:40] What alignment and fulfilment look like in business [35:20] Sue’s hopes and plans for the future of Willow & Hen

• Following your long-held interests even when the path looks unexpected

• Shifting from a fast-paced corporate environment into intentional entrepreneurship

• Building a community-focused business rooted in connection

• Supporting local makers and choosing products with purpose

• Navigating big career changes with courage and curiosity

• Allowing your business to grow and evolve season by season

• Creating a work life that feels calm, aligned and meaningful

Instagram: @willowandhen Website: willowandhen.co.uk

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