In this twenty-sixth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Steph Flynn – former midwife and founder of Birth Nerd, who is redefining antenatal education and changing the conversation around birth.

Steph’s journey is one of passion, purpose and transformation. With a background in nursing and midwifery, and a lifelong fascination with the power of birth, she went on to create Birth Nerd – an antenatal education business that helps expectant parents feel informed, confident and empowered. Her approach combines clear, practical teaching with tools like hypnobirthing, all rooted in the belief that knowledge and choice are at the heart of positive birth experiences.

Before having her eldest child, Alex attended Steph’s birth preparation course – an experience that shifted her entire perspective. She went from feeling overwhelmed and uncertain to empowered, calm and confident in her decisions. It’s the same impact Steph now brings to families through her courses, workshops and community initiatives such as Kin Shropshire.

In this conversation Alex and Steph explore:

• Steph’s path from nursing into midwifery and antenatal education

• The personal experiences that inspired the creation of Birth Nerd

• Why informed choices matter in pregnancy and birth

• The role of hypnobirthing as a supportive tool

• Building community support through Kin Shropshire

• The complementary roles of doulas and midwives

• Birth trauma awareness and the importance of education

• How Birth Nerd is transforming antenatal classes for modern parents

Whether you’re expecting a baby, planning your birth, supporting someone who is, or simply curious about the future of antenatal education, this episode is full of insight. It’s a powerful reminder that mothers are not just numbers in a system – they deserve knowledge, confidence and community support at every step.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction and background [03:00] Steph’s transition into midwifery [09:00] The Birth Nerd journey [15:00] Informed choices and hypnobirthing [21:00] Community support and Kin Shropshire [27:00] Empowerment through antenatal education

Key Highlights

• Informed choices are key to positive birth experiences

• Hypnobirthing is a tool, not a complete solution

• How personal experiences shape professional paths

• The power of community in antenatal education

• Birth Nerd’s unique approach to empowering parents

Connect with Steph Website: https://www.birthnerd.co.uk/ Instagram: @birthnerduk

Connect with Alex Book a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this twenty-fifth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Vicki Yadav – Founder of Primary Steps, who made the inspiring transition from teaching into business ownership. Vicki’s journey is a powerful example of resilience, adaptability and determination, showing what’s possible when you step away from a secure career and build a business on your own terms.

From her early aspirations influenced by family, to navigating the uncertainty of leaving teaching behind, through to starting a business during the pandemic, Vicki’s story highlights the reality of entrepreneurship: balancing personal life with business, facing setbacks head-on, and finding the courage to grow something sustainable.

Today, Vicki runs Primary Steps, supporting teachers with practical tools, resources and guidance. Her journey shows small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs the importance of mindset, community and perseverance when growing a business from the ground up.

In this conversation Alex and Vicki explore:

• How childhood aspirations and family influence shaped Vicki’s early career

• The leap from teaching into starting her own business

• The impact of COVID as a turning point in her entrepreneurial journey

• The challenges of launching a small business during uncertain times

• How to use community and social media to grow your business

• Overcoming tech hurdles and learning as you go

• The importance of resilience, adaptability and perseverance for entrepreneurs

• Vicki’s advice for small business owners navigating change and growth

Whether you’re thinking about leaving a secure career, already running your own business, or looking for encouragement to take the next step, Vicki’s story is proof that with resilience, community and clarity, you can create a business that aligns with your values and supports your life.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction and welcome to Vicki [02:01] Early aspirations and family influence [05:31] Transition from teaching to business [10:01] The impact of COVID-19 on career decisions [15:01] Starting a business during challenging times [20:01] Building a community and using social media [25:01] Overcoming tech challenges and learning on the go [30:01] Shifting focus from parents to teachers [35:01] Key milestones and moments of realisation [40:01] Financial challenges and pricing strategies [45:01] Advice for aspiring business owners [50:01] The importance of community and support networks [55:01] Closing thoughts and future plans

Key Highlights

• How family influence shaped Vicki’s aspirations

• Why the pandemic became a pivotal moment in her career

• The realities of starting a small business during uncertain times

• The role of mindset, community and social media in business growth

• Lessons in resilience, adaptability and perseverance for entrepreneurs

Connect with Vicki Website: https://www.hub.primarysteps.co.uk/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primary.steps/

Connect with Alex Book a Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this twenty-fourth episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Katie Corkill – Founder of Katie Corkill Decorating, an award-winning entrepreneur who has carved her own path in a traditionally male-dominated industry, moving from corporate life into trade business ownership with resilience, curiosity and determination.

Katie’s story is one of courage, adaptability and growth. From early influences that sparked her curiosity, to leaving behind the security of a corporate role to pursue more meaningful work, her journey highlights the importance of mindset, integrity and persistence in building a business.

Today, Katie is not only running her own painting and decorating business but also showing what’s possible when you reframe fear as opportunity and embrace the challenges along the way.

In this conversation Alex and Katie explore:

• How childhood influences and encouragement shaped her entrepreneurial spirit

• The “quarter-life crisis” that sparked her transition from corporate to trades

• The challenges and triumphs of starting her own business

• Why mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming self-doubt

• The role of resilience, honesty and hard work in sustainable growth

• Practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs who want to start their own journey

Whether you’re considering stepping away from a corporate job, starting a business from scratch or simply need encouragement to take that next bold step, Katie’s journey is a reminder that perseverance, adaptability and integrity will carry you through.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Katie to the podcast [01:15] Childhood curiosity, family influences and early skills [05:30] Transitioning from corporate to exploring trades [09:45] The leap into business ownership [15:20] Mindset shifts and reframing fear [20:10] The role of support networks in business growth [24:00] Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs [28:30] Lessons in resilience, honesty and fairness [32:00] Looking ahead: what’s next for Katie

Key Highlights

• The influence of childhood experiences in shaping entrepreneurial curiosity

• How a “quarter-life crisis” can lead to meaningful career change

• The importance of mindset when facing challenges and self-doubt

• Why honesty, fairness, and resilience are cornerstones of sustainable business

• Katie’s advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on taking calculated risks

Connect with Katie https://katiecorkilldecorating.co.uk/

https://www.instagram.com/katie_corkill_decorating/

Connect with Alex Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this twenty-third solo episode of My Kind of Business, Alex dives into five of the most common mistakes small business owners make — and, more importantly how to avoid them.

Drawing on personal experiences and client stories, Alex unpacks the pitfalls that often hold business owners back. From financial blind spots to the dangers of burnout, this episode is packed with practical advice and encouragement to help you build a business that works with your life and values.

Alex also shares simple strategies to stay true to yourself, grow at your own pace and avoid the pressure of chasing trends or scaling too quickly.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the demands of running a business or found yourself second-guessing your approach, this episode will give you clarity, confidence and a reminder that you don’t have to do it all alone.

00:00 – Introduction and overview of the five common mistakes 02:30 – Not knowing your numbers and why financial clarity matters 07:15 – Trying to do everything alone and the value of support 12:00 – Ignoring your energy and capacity (and how to avoid burnout) 16:45 – Copying others instead of building authentically 21:00 – The pressure to scale fast vs. allowing your own growth pace 25:00 – Final thoughts and call to action

✦ Practical advice on how to understand and manage your numbers ✦ Why you shouldn’t try to wear all the hats in your business ✦ How to align your work with your energy and capacity ✦ The risks of following trends that don’t feel authentic ✦ Permission to grow your business sustainably and joyfully

✦ Book a free clarity call; https://alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/claritycall ✦ Explore one-to-one coaching options: power hours, four-session packages or six-month support ✦ Website: https://www.alexmccarthycoaching.com/ ✦ Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. Reach out for support and take the next step in your business journey with confidence.

In this twenty-second episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Amy Robinson – a Beauty Business Owner and Educator who has built her business from the ground up, starting in her mum’s kitchen and growing into a thriving beauty space and educator brand known for empowerment, confidence and connection.

Amy’s story is one of resilience, persistence and transformation. From childhood challenges and overcoming bullying, to carving out her own path in the beauty industry, her journey highlights the power of turning pain into purpose. Today, Amy isn’t just shaping brows - she’s shaping confidence, creating safe spaces and proving that boundaries are just as important as beauty in business.

In this conversation, Alex and Amy explore:

• How Amy turned early challenges into a successful beauty career

• The lessons she learned starting out from her mum’s kitchen

• Why creating a safe, welcoming space is the heart of her work

• The role of boundaries and policies in building a sustainable business

• Practical advice for new entrepreneurs about persistence and self-focus

• The empowering impact of helping clients see themselves differently

Whether you’re in the beauty industry, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone looking for inspiration to keep going, Amy’s story is proof that small beginnings can grow into something powerful when paired with persistence, boundaries and a focus on what really matters.

Timestamps [00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Amy to the podcast [01:30] Childhood challenges and early influences [05:00] Starting out in the beauty industry [07:00] The decision to specialise in brows [10:00] From mum’s kitchen to opening her own salon [15:00] Creating a safe space and building client confidence [20:00] Comparison, boundaries, and lessons learned [25:00] Personal growth, coaching, and reflection [30:00] Amy’s advice for new entrepreneurs [32:00] Vision for the future and empowering through beauty

Key Highlights

• The transition from working at her mum’s kitchen table to running her own thriving salon

• Why confidence and boundaries are essential in business

• How creating safe spaces helps clients feel seen and empowered

• Amy’s advice for persistence, self-focus and growth as a new entrepreneur

Connect with Amy Instagram: @ajrglamour

Connect with Alex Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this twenty-first episode of My Kind of Business Alex is joined by Anna Botley – a coach, yoga teacher, and space-holder who helps women stop people-pleasing, speak their truth, and rebuild their relationships from the inside out through embodied presence, nervous system work, and everyday self-respect.

Anna’s story is one of self-discovery, resilience, and redefining success. From early jobs that didn’t quite fit, to earning a biomedical degree, to finding the emotional connection and transformation of yoga, Anna’s journey is full of trial, error, and powerful lessons. She opens up about navigating the challenges of long COVID, overcoming self-doubt and comparison, and building a business that prioritises alignment, well-being, and authenticity.

In this conversation, Alex and Anna explore:

• The real differences between coaching and therapy in personal growth

• How to create a business that works with your values and lifestyle

• Why success is about grounded truth, not just financial milestones

• Practical advice for new entrepreneurs starting their journey

• The mindset shifts that help you show up as your authentic self

Whether you’re a business owner, yoga enthusiast, aspiring coach, or someone navigating your own path of personal growth, this episode will inspire you to define success on your own terms and trust that the smallest shifts can lead to the biggest transformations.

Timestamps

[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Anna to the podcast [00:50] Early Career Exploration & realising 9–5 wasn’t for her [10:15] Discovering coaching and yoga [20:30] Coaching vs. Therapy – key differences [30:45] Overcoming self-doubt and comparison [40:00] Defining success on your own terms [50:15] Advice for new entrepreneurs [55:00] Final reflections and what’s next

Key Highlights

• Anna’s inspiring journey from uncertainty to a fulfilling career in coaching and yoga

• The emotional transformation she experienced through yoga

• Insights into coaching vs. therapy and how each supports growth

• Navigating long COVID while building a values-led business

• Redefining success to prioritise joy, alignment, and personal fulfilment

Connect with Anna Instagram: @annabotley

Connect with Alex Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this twentieth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by Tia Harris – a Shropshire-based mum, coach and creator of The Motherhood Shift.

Tia shares her powerful journey from corporate leadership into the world of coaching, where she now supports women in one of the most transformative seasons of life: motherhood.

They explore how her childhood experiences shaped her business decisions, what it took to step away from a successful career, and how becoming a mum cracked her wide open to a new way of living and working. Tia is passionate about helping women redefine who they are, without shame or pressure to “bounce back” – and this conversation is full of warmth, honesty and inspiration.

If you’re navigating change, growing a business alongside motherhood, or craving a deeper sense of self-connection – this episode is for you.

[00:00] Introduction: Alex welcomes Tia to the podcast [01:30] Childhood Influence: How Tia's early life shaped her path [05:00] From Corporate to Coaching: What sparked the shift [10:00] Balancing Business & Motherhood [15:00] Redefining Success [20:00] Leading with Authenticity and Integrity [25:00] Creating The Motherhood Shift & supporting other women [30:00] Final Reflections and What’s Next

• Tia’s bold transition from corporate leadership into coaching

• The role of childhood in shaping her identity and values

• The emotional and practical challenges of starting a business as a new mum

• Redefining success to include joy, self-trust, and authenticity

• Why mental well-being and identity work are at the heart of The Motherhood Shift

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/odjus_coaching

Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession

Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching

Website: alexmccarthycoaching.com

In this nineteenth solo episode of My Kind of Business, Alex opens up about the real, raw experience of navigating motherhood while running a business.

Alex shares her personal journey through the chaos and joy of early motherhood - from the mental load of juggling multiple roles to the invisible weight of postnatal anxiety. She talks honestly about the guilt many mothers carry and the necessity of redefining what success looks like in this season of life.

In this heartfelt episode, Alex also explores the power of community, the importance of asking for help and the freedom found in embracing imperfection.

If you’re a parent balancing business and life, or anyone feeling the pressure to “do it all,” this episode offers comfort, insights and permission to be kind to yourself.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – Introduction and the reality of early motherhood 02:15 – The mental load and juggling roles 05:30 – Postnatal anxiety and its subtle manifestations 08:45 – The guilt of motherhood and redefining success 12:00 – Building a supportive community and asking for help 15:20 – Embracing imperfection and focusing on what matters

What to Expect

✦ An honest conversation about balancing motherhood and business ✦ Insights into postnatal anxiety and its hidden impact ✦ Reframing guilt as a sign of care, not failure ✦ The importance of community and asking for help ✦ Embracing imperfection and redefining success on your terms

Connect with Alex Book a free Business Connection Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching