Michelle and Nicola record from Nicola's house for the first time, accompanied by a pack of dogs (including Betty the drama-queen poodle). This episode covers two main topics: a tribute to Dolly Parton and the month's theme — "the best decisions we nearly didn't make."

Segment 1 — Remembering Dolly Parton The hosts reflect on Dolly Parton's passing and her enormous cultural impact. They discuss her unapologetic authenticity, how she deliberately used her appearance to be underestimated, her sharp business acumen, and her philanthropy (gifting hundreds of millions of books through her Imagination Library). Michelle shares a listener story about a fan meeting Dolly at karaoke in Nashville. The hosts agree: "Be more Dolly."

Segment 2 — Best Decisions We Nearly Didn't Make

• Nicola shares how starting her business in her mid-40s after redundancy was the life-changing decision she almost didn't make. Fear of financial uncertainty and imposter syndrome nearly stopped her.
• Michelle talks about starting her business impulsively — unusual for a self-described procrastinator — and how naysayers only spurred her on.
• Regrets: Michelle wishes she'd skipped university and pursued dance as a child. Nicola regrets not niching into working with women entrepreneurs sooner, wasting 18 months trying to appeal to everyone.
• Fear vs. excitement: The hosts explore how fear and excitement share the same chemical response, and how to tell the difference — if it makes you smile, go for it.
• Current decisions: Michelle feels she's approaching a new phase as her youngest turns 18. Nicola is mulling over levelling up her marketing beyond social media, with plans to explore PR opportunities.

Listener Challenge: What's the best decision you nearly didn't make? Or what decision are you currently trying to talk yourself into or out of?

Contact:

• Email: studio@thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• Instagram: @TheReinventionDiariesPodcast
• Website: thereinventiondiaries.co.uk
• www.nicolaauckland.co.uk
• www.mrsstylewright.com