Business Foundations for Mums

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Today’s episode is an interview with Emma Benyon. Emma is a self-care and motherhood coach and educator, supporting busy mums who are juggling the school run with a job and building a business with the tools to be less overwhelmed and have more balance, energy and clarity.

Emma is mum to a six year old and a qualified NLP, mBIT and Practical Magic Coach and full time post 16 educator. She is the editor of Positive Wellbeing Zine for Mums and host of the Self Care and Motherhood Edit podcast. Her passion is to support busy mums to have more time and energy for the all the things they enjoy and to have the tools to support and nurture themselves. I spoke to Emma about some of the challenges that she has faced juggling business and Motherhood, and she shared some insights with me as to how she has worked through these challenges. And of course some book recommendations (see list below).

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Emma talks about ease (helping Mums to find time in a simple easy way).
Lessons learned from hitting burnout multiple times
Self-care, non-negotiables, but also being able to pick self-care habits back up if they haven't gone to plan one day
Making self-care easy and to fit into your life, rather than trying to force it. Find the small moments
Journalling, and finding a way it works for you
The gym
The example we set for our children
The quiet time of early morning. Having time to yourself for self-care
Our environment is part of our self-care. Being in a space that works for you
Showing up in a way that is authentic to ourselves. The best version of you
How good self-care allows you to manage situations that may get thrown at you
Self-care as a fundamental part of making changes in life
Exploring self-care practices… What does and doesn't work, and what we need at that time.
Sitting in a coaching business with a full-time job, family life, and one sense of care
Reaching burnout, and designating specific time to make it simpler
Making coaching more accessible through small pockets of time and messages.
How a business became a "Space for me ", a creative outlet and a self-care practice
Business has a sense of self, to help with postnatal depression.
Stay in your own lane. You never know what is happening behind closed doors of someone else's business.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode Kate talks about the importance of a Business Plan. Talking through each section of the business plan:

Vision, Mission & Values
Business Feasibility (market research and competitor analysis)
SWOT Analysis
Your Products/Services (now and planned)
Financial Planning (including Pricing Strutcure, Break even point and Record Keeping)
Your Audience
Your Brand
Marketing & Sales Strategy
Organisational Structure
Operations
Risk Management
An Action Plan

You can download Kate's free Business Plan template at https://businessfoundationsformums.co.uk/business-plan-sign-up

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Sarah McCalden. Sarah is a dedicated financial wellness and personal growth expert known for her achievement, strength, passion, and expertise. Award-winning and an international best-selling author, she has trained with industry leaders like Bob Proctor, Jack Canfield, and Kendall Summerhawk to master her skills in helping people achieve financial success and personal fulfillment.

Sarah's journey is a testament to her resilience. After overcoming a life-threatening drug addiction in her twenties, she turned her life around embracing motherhood and fitness, running marathons and ultramarathons. In 2018, she started her own business, achieving a six-figure income and making a real difference in the lives of women (and some men) by helping them take control of their finances and transform their relationship with money. And of course Sarah gave us some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Sarah's desire to home educate after seeing a lot that she didn't like in the education system.
A lack of information about how best to manage the money that she was earning led to Sarah starting her own Money School.
The difference between home schooling and home education. Education through play.
Learning a different mindset and way of thinking about earning, money and wealth, through a network marketing business
Shifting your mindset by taking more responsibility for your own journey and income. Seeking out and saying yes to opportunities.
Low self esteem and low self worth following a long period of drug addiction. The journey forward - taking responsibility - being meant for more.
Knowing your own comfort zone, pushing this slightly, taking tiny steps regularly to make massive change.
Being put on the spot to speak at an international event. A small but very powerful moment of realising that others took inspiration from her story.
Human design and being an introvert. Enjoying being around people and connection. But the need for time alone.
Choosing the right opportunities rather than those that you feel that you "should" take.
What other people think of you is none of your business. Looking back at times when fear, and what others think, has stopped her.
Telegram as a good coaching and community tool.
Zoom for video calls, group meetings, webinars.
Networking - meeting each other through online networking.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode Kate is talking about surviving the summer holidays. The summer holidays can be a busy time for mums in business, with so much to juggle. But there are different ways to get through the holidays and here we will explore a number of ideas that may work for different mums. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Scheduling your time is so important.
What childcare options are available to you?
Consider a child swap with another business Mum so you each get a day to work.
Keeping the kids busy during the holiday when you need to work.
Time blocking is a great way to see what your time will be taken up by.
Family days out and different activities you can do.
Communication is key with friends, family, clients etc during the holidays.

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Danielle Gibbs. Danielle has multiple projects on the go... from her Podcast, Mummy Mayhem, to her work as a virtual assistant, and the Charity that she is setting up to offer a place for other families with disabilities to have an accessible place to spend some time together away from the stresses of day to day life. And of course some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Grand-parents as childcare especially for children with disabilities and additional needs.
Working as a Virtual Assistant.
Charity - Accessible holiday space for families with disabled children.
Organising time as a busy working mum and multiple business owner.
How we should remember to judge ourselves as our friends would judge us - rather than more critically.
Self-development as an important part of business.
The importance of self care as a business owner and Mum. Making time for this. Avoiding burnout.
Business evolving and pivoting.
Do what you enjoy - it doesn't feel like work.
Holidays with a child with a disability.
Comparisonitis.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode Kate talks about Imposter Syndrome and some suggestions on how to manage it. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

"The persistent inability to believe that one's success is deserved or has to be legitimately achieved as a result of ones own efforts or skills".
Constant self doubt that "I am not good enough" or "I am going to get found out as not the brilliant person they think I am".
Most women (and some men) experience this.
Many very successful women have openly talked about Imposter Syndrome.
Talking with others can help.
How Imposter Syndrome causes self sabotage.
Identify where the self-doubts stem from - What voice do you hear when listening to them.
Give the inner voices a name - thank them and move on.
Recognise and acknowledge your achievements.

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Hannah Keys. Hannah helps Mums who feel stuck in the 9-5 build a scalable online income in a way that aligns with the life they want to live. A previous healthcare professional who traded her uni-degree-career of shift work for the opportunity to build a business that allows her to spend more time with her son, and have more choice in her life. Being self employed held lots of unknowns for Hannah, but she says "it has truly given me the opportunity to get to know myself; play to my strengths, improve my weaknesses and also find a community of like minded women which has been so empowering. I am now passionate about sharing this with others who are feeling stuck."

Hannah told us all about finding a good middle ground between self-employment and being employed along with tools and tips that have helped her in business. And of course some book recommendations (see list below). Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Stepping out of your comfort zone
The influence of mindset
How networking plays a role in business
The "right time" doesn't exist
The importance of breaking up your time (and taking breaks)

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today’s episode Kate is focusing on the confidence blocks that Mums can face when running their own business. Kate talks about how to face these blocks and find support networks to help you. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

The fears that come along with starting a business
The role imposter syndrome can have
The negative impact of comparison
Balancing family life and business
Ways to work through confidence blocks
Looking at goals and how to get there
The importance of support networks
Self care is important as a Mum in business
The benefit of taking action despite your fears

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Kat Wilmore. Kat told us all about her nature inspired artwork and how she found her way back to creativity. And of course some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Snatching moments where you can as a busy Mum
Carving time out for yourself, for something that you care about.
The importance of treating your business as a business from day one
Setting boundaries is essential How helpful block scheduling for social media can be.
The freedom that running your own business brings you.
Why it's important to do what you care about.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode I talk about the updates to Instagram's algorithm. Social media algorithms are changing constantly and it's hard to keep up, so I felt it was time for an update given that a lot of the information in my previous episodes about Instagram will be out of date. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Algorithms are constantly changing
The possible changes to the hashtag limit
Original content is favoured over shared/repurposed content
The risk of banned hashtags and shadow-banning
The importance of reels and stories
What is classed as good engagement?

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Hannah Martinig. Hannah is an Empowerment and Personal Branding Photographer based in Aylesbury. She left the corporate world in 2019 to focus on her Photography Business full time. Hannah specialises in Body Confidence, Female Empowerment and Personal Branding. Her father was a photographer and she had always taken an interest in it from a distance and appreciated the skill involved. However, it wasn't until she got her first DSLR camera for Christmas in 2010, from her husband, that she realised her real passion for it. Hannah's focus is on the client; to give you a relaxed, positive and empowering experience and to create images to treasure long after the moment has passed. Hannah want to help you promote your business' biggest asset; YOU! And make you stand out from the crowd. And want to show the world the version of you that she sees when she looks through her lens and she want you to see that person smiling back at you in the mirror. Away from the camera, Hannah loves all things vintage and retro; She is a fan of Country music and an avid bookworm. She owns far too many pairs of Irregular Choice shoes and likes tea in a pretty cup from a teapot!

I spoke to Hannah about some of the challenges that she has faced running business, and she shared some insights with me around the body confidence issues that she is passionate about helping Women to overcome. And of course some book recommendations. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Working from home with pets and children
How photography which started out as a hobby, developed into a passion and then a Business.
How fear of developing photography into a business disguised itself as a desire to keep it simply as a hobby, and particularly a fear that it would feel like a chore if it was something that had to be done every day.
The realisation that body image issues come from external expectations and sources, and that photography could have a place in helping women with this issue.
Hannah‘s photography focuses on creating positive and beautiful images of women as they are without manipulating or airbrushing the photographs.
The female body in particular tells a story of our lives and children.
Embracing our imperfections Hannah was inspired to take her business full-time, but immediately after she did so we were hit by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Hannah embraced the time became available to her as a result of the pandemic, to decide upon a focus, and to set her values and aims for her business.
This also gave Hannah the opportunity to continue to work with businesses and realise that her skills of showing authenticity through the camera also had a place for business owners, who wanted show their authentic selves in their business... to show their personality and how they are relatable through photos.
The importance of "People buy from people" and "know, like and trust" in branding photos.
Photos as the attention grabbing element of social media.
Hannah talked about the importance of the person who a customer sees in the image must be the same person who they then meet. Outdated or formal photos may not be an image of person that you are in reality.
You know that you are following your passion when you know that you would still get out of bed every day and do it, and still enjoy it, even if your weren't getting paid.
Being perfectly imperfect. How scars can be part of our story. We are all unique and special.
How it is now the normality within society to want to change ourselves.
How we compare ourselves to the models who wear the clothes we life. We are always comparing and measuring ourselves to others, in image, business, lifestyle. We don't always know what others may have experienced to get there.
But also how many of the images that we see of others (or ourselves) may have been manipulated, so we are actually comparing ourselves to something that is not reality.
Whilst it is personal choice whether to have surgery or lip fillers, botox etc, there should not be a societal expectation that we SHOULD do that.
Our bodies are amazing for growing babies, and this should be celebrated.
Everyone to some extent can be body conscious. How we feel about ourselves is fluid and fluctuates.
Women are sometimes told that we shouldn't "let ourselves go". But actually should we BE "letting ourselves go" - not caring about expectations from society and what others think about us.
These comparisons are also part of what held Hannah back from starting her business. Fear of what others think.
There will always be parts of business that you don't enjoy, but as your business grows you can outsource the parts that you don't enjoy.
Fear and excitement are the same emotion, so if you can flip the way that you are talking to yourself about your fears and make them into something exciting.
The fear around not having a regular monthly wage... but again flipping this to realise that you could actually end up making so much more money than you did when employed.
You can choose your own clients. It is OK to say to clients that you do not want to work with clients if they are not the right fit for you.
Being a role model to your children. Hoping that your values rub off on your children.
Hannah talked about her daughter being her own person, and not caring what others think, and that hopefully that will not change as she gets further into the teenage years.
Hannah has a visual content club. This allows members to spread the cost and the images over a year, with regularly updated photos to use in their content.
Life is too short to not do what you love. You never now when your time is up or it might be too late.
Authenticity - be yourself - you will attract the kind of people you want to work with. Business and life can overlap and are part of each other.
For Mums in business, our children and family are often involved in our businesses or are the "why" behind the business.
For Hannah, it is not just finding our about what you do, but also WHY you do it, and different again... WHY did you keep going - because our reason "Why" can change over time.
Whilst Hannah loves Canva, I asked her to chose another tool today. And that was to use a good CRM. The one that Hannah uses is Studio Ninja which is specifically for Photographers and those involved in events and creative industries. A good CRM will manage your appointments, contacts, workflows, contracts.
We talked about Mel Robbins as an author and podcaster - Hannah described her as a little life coach in your pocket. How relatable she is. How she talks about her struggles.
Steven Bartlett as a role model - He has good stories, and great knowledge.
A preference for an audiobook read by the author themselves
Glennon Doyle book - Untamed - a book full of ah-ha moments. "Who was I before I became who the world told me to be"
How something can be simple or obvious, but that doesn't necessarily make it easy.
Networking works to grow your business, audience, but also to meet other like-minded people and others who can support your business in a variety of ways.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode Kate talks about Balancing Business & Motherhood. Whilst both running a business & being a mum can be incredibly rewarding, it also comes with it's unique set of challenges. Mum guilt, time constraints and balance are often the biggest struggles.

There are three main strategies discussed in this episode. Prioritising your time - what is non-negotiable, and what your energy needs to be focused on is incredibly important.

Learning to have boundaries is another important part of creating balance. Saying no to the things that are not as important to you, whilst also having boundaries on your own time.

Ensuring that you have time to practice your own self-care, whether this be exercise, meditation, a good book, a glass of wine with friends, or time to pursue a hobby.

What is your perspective on balance, when running a business and being a mum? Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Dr Jemma Andrew-Adiamah. Jemma is a Holistic Empowerment Coach and Mentor for mums helping them to shift out of survival mode to crystal clear clarity, confidence, and fulfilment, so they can rediscover their purpose and identity beyond motherhood in a way that’s on their terms. And of course some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Twin parent life - gruelling, overwhelming but so much beauty and magic.
Gratitude for having her own business when the twins arrived, allowing Jemma to wind up and down according to her families needs.
Having to rebuild the business after having twins.
How her business has saved her sanity and allowed her to be the multi-faceted human being that she is.
Jemma talked about her journey from blogger to holistic wellbeing, to then wanting to connect more deeply with her audience, so training as a coach and setting up her coaching business.
Being grateful to have something for herself that is totally detached from Motherhood.
Jemma built her business by working early in the morning, late at night, or snatching moments during nap times.
How much of a privilege it is to do something that you love and not be tied by the constraints of reality, and the need to bring in a wage.
Jemma talks about being empowered by her clients, just as much as it is her job to empower them.
Being in Business allows you to find a group of like-minded people who “just get it”.
Networking as a place to connect, encourage, support and celebrate each other.
The importance of being seen, heard and validated by people who understand your experiences.
Jemma talks about starting her blog as a hobby and creative outlet when she was studying for her PhD, as a way to connect with others on a similar journey to having a healthier relationship with food.
Through her blog, Jemma started her journey into exploring holistic well-being, not just focusing on the food on your plate and how much you move, but also how you feel and think about yourself, your mindset, how intentional you are with your energy & priorities.
Jemma talks about the challenges of juggling a full-time job, a commute to work, her husband who works very long hours, and trying to figure out the best option for childcare, all coming together which prompted her to go all in on making her blog full-time career.
The rise of the influencer and how this impacted on the blogging world.
Jemma said that she set up her local networking group for Women for selfish reasons, after 2 communities that she gained support from closed down.
Jemma was keen that her women’s networking group should be a place for honest conversations, real connections with real people, rather than the corporate elevator pictures and salesy, Shmoozy networking that cause fear for introverts. - Whilst the Facebook group is a really important place to reinforce the connections that are made, the real connections are made when women meet face-to-face.
The importance of getting to know people, and the know, like and trust factor that then means that you want to recommend them to your friends, family and contacts.
Jemma I talked about the fear that many people feel about going networking, and the perception that it will all be very corporate and formal.
The different feel and dynamic of women only networking which is often more friendly, supportive open and nurturing than male dominated networking, and often is more focused on the connection.
Imposter Syndrome - how we all feel it at times. Feeling like a fraud or not good enough.
Jemma sees it as coming from always wanted to be our best, and talks about turning away from how her business “should” be according to the cookie-cutter approach, and doing things her own way, using an intuitive approach
Turning away from the expectation of being an overnight success story, or having a six figure business.
Working towards your own definition of success. Success as a subjective and personal concept.
How the concept of success shifts when you become a mum. For Jemma success which allows balance and flexibility for her family and allows her to contribute to the family income. To live the lifestyle as a family, creating memories on days out.
When we see successful six or seven figure entrepreneurs, we do not know what circumstances and resources they have which have allowed them to get to that place in their business. It is easy to compare our businesses but we do not all have the same childcare availability, family support, household income, and we do not always see the years of work that may have gone in to the Business behind-the-scenes before that level of financial success has happened.
Jemma loves using Canva to bring some fun and creativity to her business.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode Kate talks about the different styles of business and what could work for you. This episode is for Mums who know that they want to start their own business, but are unsure of what business would be best suited to them, or how their skills could be turned into a business.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Traditional business models can include e-commerce (selling something online), service based businesses, bricks and mortar businesses, such as a shop, a food outlet, a salon, or studio.
These can include a room in your own home, or garden studio, where clients can come.
Mobile food businesses are also very popular at the moment, as well as pop-ups and concessionary stands and stalls within other food outlets.
Product based businesses, where you make, up-cycle, re-purpose or buy and sell items can also be a fantastic way to do business.
Personalised items can work well - whether that be items that you make and personalise or buy in items to personalise.
Art can be created and sold in traditional sales methods or online.
As a Mum, items that are child or Mother related can be helpful. Maybe even something that solves a problem and that you couldn’t find in your role as a Mum.
Multi-level marketing can be a good way of getting into business, learning, and potentially getting some sales experience with a team behind you. Be cautious as there are some MLM’s with questionable practices, and this is not the right route for everyone but if you find a product that you love it can be a good starting point or additional stream of income.
Another option is online/Digital products. E-books, PDF downloads, Workbooks, courses, memberships. (With the exception of memberships) these products are passive income to some degree.
Freelancing/consulting in a corporate area that you are skilled and experienced in can also be an option. You have control over your hours and who you work for.
Other “passive income” streams include affiliate marketing, rental income, royalties, books. Be cautious of “passive income”. No income is 100% passive. There will always be Marketing that needs to be done, decisions that need to be made, or follow-up work that is needed, but some streams of income are certainly more passive than others.
Whatever business you decide upon, you need to factor in the space that you will need for stock, automations and systems that you need to put in place to streamline, especially if you have multiple streams of income that all need to be managed.

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Lolly Williams-Gibbs. Lolly is a Life Design Coach and conscious parenting mentor. She empowers Mums, particularly SEND mums and those with chronic illnesses, who have lost their self esteem and self identity, like she had. Teaching them to live life by their design and create the life they truly desire, with a bit of conscious parenting and behaviour support thrown in. After all, once we've learnt how to live our best lives, isn't that what we all want for children? If we can teach them, the tools and new positive beliefs in their childhood that they can embed and use naturally into their adulthood, we may, just may end up with the next generation not in such a mental health crisis!

And of course some book recommendations (see list below).

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

The importance of teaching your children the same tools that your learn about living life by design.
Being a parent carer.
Designing your life around you health, your family.
Planning as a family. Planning sessions, and communicating regularly. Prioritising time for this.
Playing to the strengths of each partner, and learning from each other.
Embedding small habits to get the foundations for life and business in place.
Body Doubling for ADHD.
Using screen time when needed to allow you to get things done as Mum.
Fibromyalgia and how this has forced Lolly to re-assess & prioritise self-care.
How being diagnosed with ADHD, fibromyalgia, depression and anxiety affected her.
Self awareness - listening to your system and body rather than being stuck in masculine hustle.
How a business evolved from offering advice after leaving a job in teaching.
Helping Mums who feel lost without having to niche her business as she was being told by the experts.
Incorporating Life by Design into her every day life
Leaving a narcissistic relationship and finding herself again.
Ignore everyone else's advice and follow your own path.
Morning Success Ritual. How this sets Lolly up for the day. Not looking at your phone until you have finished your morning ritual.
How to avoid being sucked in by notifications on social media. How allocating days to "be mum" is beneficial.
The importance of mental health awareness in the educational system
Listening to what your body needs and taking action to help Weekly planning sessions as parents
The impact of a morning routine on mindset for the day ahead

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode, Kate highlights the importance of a mailing list in business. Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Mailing lists help you keep in contact with people you're growing relationships with
Mailing lists nurture warm audiences -
Ways to reward your mailing lists - Mailing list statistics
Segmentation within your mailing list
Email marketing platforms to help create beautiful looking emails and automations
Conversion rates in relation to mailing lists

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Amanda Heritage. Amanda works with her Clients to contribute to the delivery of their brand objectives and business strategy, by delivering creative, engaging and memorable messaging for their brands that drive engagement and sales growth, and ultimately to #makeyourbrandworkharder. She has worked in marketing for 23 years, the last 5 running her own digital marketing company.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Amanda helps businesses to find digital solutions to work their brands harder, using her background in retail marketing.
Amanda started her digital marketing business after learning about LinkedIn through some training, and then developing her own personal use of digital platforms.
Amanda is Mum to a 17 year old and is loving sharing her knowledge with her son who now studies business.
Working in the corporate world Amanda always felt the guilt of both being present for the important times in her son’s life and education, and now loves the flexibility she has of being involved whilst running her own business.
The importance of an amazing support network. - Amanda talked about her use of LinkedIn for clients, understanding her clients target audience and making sure that they are present on those platforms. How LinkedIn has evolved since Covid, where people have become more engaged and used it as a platform to be more honest about how they were feeling. And use of the platform as a networking tool.
Evidencing what you deliver to clients by doing it for yourself too.
Amanda had a burning desire to start a business but was not brave enough to take the leap for a couple of years and was worried about giving up her corporate salary. But lost her partners Mum, who was a huge support within the family. The commute and managing remote teams became a problem, pushing Amanda into a job that she didn’t enjoy.
Whilst times aren’t always easy in Business, Amanda said that she has never looked back. She wanted this business so much that she made it happen and made it a success, for her family and herself.
Meeting people at networking as Amanda and I did. Some networking isn’t for you, whilst others are full of people you click with and who are in the same boat. And friendships with others who are in a similar position, who become a support network within your business.
Creating a network of people whose skills you can utilise, share and connect with. You can grow relationships, and once your network know you, they will recommend you and connect you with other business connections who can benefit your business.
Try to maximise the fact that you are running your own business. You are in control of your diary, so make sure that you do things for you… work the hours that work for you, book a hairdressers appointment in the week, and choose if you will work the weekend, build in time for self care. You don’t need to be tied to your desk or work to someone else’s working hours.
Learn how to use a scheduling tool for social media. Scheduling in bulk can save a lot of time. You can do it from your phone when you have pockets of time. Meta, and LinkedIn allow you to schedule content.
Amanda gave her book recommendations, and talked about why she loves books and podcasts by Steven Bartlett.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today Kate is talking about Early Morning Starts. Early morning starts are not for everyone - if you are still in the sleep deprived phase of Motherhood - if your children get you up early and you don't get the benefits of the early starts... However an early morning start is great if you want some time to yourself. In this episode I talk about how I got started with 5am starts, my initial reservations, and my early experiences of 5am starts.

What can you do with the undisturbed time to yourself - no distraction - housework, work, self-care and self development.
Our cognitive functioning, creativity and problem solving skills are all at their best when we first wake up, and for many (myself included before I started getting up early) this time is used getting the children ready for the day.
It can be a great opportunity to set intentions, plans and to-do lists for the day ahead. It is a habit that many successful people swear by, and for good reason. It is an opportunity for time to yourself which is otherwise hard to come by as a Mum.
And in the summer a great opportunity to enjoy the joy that is sunrise, and the peace and tranquility of nature.
Focus on personal growth, well-being, prioritising - giving you clarity and purpose, can significantly improve your productivity.

Books that can help are The Miracle Morning by Hal Elrod. And The 5am Club by Robin Sharma (my favourite book ever). Are you interested in trying early morning starts? Let me know - I will be doing a challenge soon. Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Sharon Goodway. Sharon is the owner of Nails by Sharon Gabrielle, a salon that offers Manicures and Pedicures in a private intimate salon. Her main passions are Nail Art (especially anything Disney related) and helping Nail biters kick the habit with my Well Being Package. Through her love of nail art she also designs Luxury Press on Nails on her Etsy page, for those wanting fabulous nails short term.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

A diagnosis of non-Hodgkins Lymphoma made Sharon realise that there is more to life than being stuck in a job that you don't enjoy.
Being an inspiration to your children.
Being able to work within school hours, to be there for your children. Not needing to ask anyone else for time off.
Shifting from a corporate role, to fulfil a more creative passion.
The accomplishment of being your own boss, and being a role model for your kids.
A shift in mindset after cancer treatment - if I can survive cancer, I can do anything.
Priorities - changing the mindset of clients to help them to see that a manicure is affordable, if you are willing to give up some other small items.
Overcoming the fear of talking to clients, by finding common ground, and then meeting people who you wouldn't meet otherwise.
Adjusting lifestyle, and the children also adjusting their expectations, whilst getting the business up and running.
The investment necessary to start a nail business. Calculating your break even point, your profit, and the uncertainty of income, and taking time off.
Pricing for your own circumstances and costs, rather than picking a figure based on what others charge. Factoring in your time in your pricing.
Fear of not being liked. People buy from people who they know, like and trust.
Fear of failing - what if it doesn't always work.
Learning to use systems and take the help that is offered.
Only so many hours in the day, especially as a mum. Mum guilt when working on your business can be really hard. Both the guilt when you spend time on your business, and not with your family, but also the guilt when you spend time with your family and not on your business.
Keeping on top of social media and the challenges that this brings. Working on your wording, your images, and the amount of time that it takes.
The ideal client - your avatar - what messaging attracts them.
Thinking outside the box - Nails for nail-biters
Stay in your own lane. Don't worry about others who do things differently, charge more or less than you, have more followers.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today Kate is talking about Brand Values within your business. Brand values are an essential part of any business. More than just colours and logo, but the values that guide your business identity and culture, that represent who you are and what you stand for. These brand values are what draw people to you and help your audience to resonate with you, and ultimately want to buy from you. Your brand values will allow you to create meaningful connections with your audience, and stand out from the overwhelming amount of content that we are exposed to every day. Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today's episode is an interview with Jodie Charters. Jodie set up her business to regain her independence after having 4 children, and spotting a sweet cart for sale.

She talks about:

Getting thrown in at the deep end with a high profile event right at the start.
Being unsure about what business to start up
The fear of getting out and meeting others after being at home as a Mum for years.
The loneliness of being a Mum.
Being a role model for our children and particularly to our daughters.
Signing up to directories within your industry
The challenges of how much work social media for business takes.
Paying all of the overheads and the time we use in business - The hidden costs that many people don't realise.
Being a Mum is so time consuming, and we don't have the same hours in the day as other business owners.
Mum guilt
The balance between home, family, business.
Fear of failing
Missing out on family time, while building your business.
Being aware of the competition in your industry
Growing in confidence, strength and courage as a survivor of domestic violence, learning to love yourself.
Counselling - talking to someone who listens and gives you tools to empower yourself.
Learning to slow down, take stock, and spend some time getting things right.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today Kate talks about The Mental Load that Mums face on a day to day basis, juggling not only parenting, and work or business, but also, managing the household, the home admin, the endless list of things that need to be done and remembered, ensuring that everyone is where they need to be, when they need to be and with what they need to be.

This has both a cognitive and emotional burden, which in many homes falls to the Mum.
It is the things that need to be thought about, organised, remembered and planned for.
This can include all of the small tasks in a household or family, which have never been agreed upon, as to who will do them. The important details. (Not only getting your child to a birthday party, but ensuring that a suitable present has been purchased, along with a card, that you have wrapping paper, and it is wrapped, card written and ready to go at party time).
The constant mental "to do" list is emotionally taxing.
In many (not all) households, there are many tasks that would simply not happen if Mum didn't do them. Because no one else thinks about them.
Brain dumping as a strategy to help to manage the mental load.
Using reminders, apps, lists, systems, visual reminders and routines.
Self care, and getting emotional support, or support with your mental health.
Mental load as a result of the transition from the traditional expectation upon women to do the vast majority of the childcare and household task, whilst also now being expected to work full time.
For some woman it's "just easier to do it myself".

Find the show notes here

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Today's episode is an interview with Louise Jowsey. Louise is a single mum to 2 teenagers. She published her first book last month called "50 things I learnt about life by 50". Louise wrote this book for her daughter. Her friend inspired her to publish a book and 100% of the proceeds are going to a charity of which Louise is a trustee. "50 things I learnt about life by 50" is available on Amazon, Kindle and as a paperback edition priced from £2.95. All monies raised go to a Cambodian based charity that Louise is involved in, "The Sorn Foundation". The charity built a school last year, today it has 72 pupils on roll. With Louise's help, the charity uses education to empower women and children and fight poverty and inequality. Louise also has a free guide she's giving away containing handy tips she's used to build her brand on LinkedIn. It is a LinkedIn profile optimisation guide.

And of course some book recommendations (see list below).

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Overcoming paralysis when starting a business.
Getting a boost to start your business.
Balancing her own business and helping a charity.
Struggles, challenges and fears that come along with starting a business.
Feel the fear and do it anyway.
Having a pre-existing understanding of your clients/audience.
Using a strong sales pipeline to see where demand is and where services best fit.
The importance of systemisation in business.

Find the shownotes and links to recommended books and tools here.

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Today's episode is a solo episode focusing on overcoming procrastination for busy mums in business.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Getting to the root of procrastination
Looking for your key mindset blocks
Effective planning and goal setting
Techniques to overcome procrastination
Finding your motivation

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Anna Parker. This is the first episode in a mini series of episodes we're doing with mums in the first year in business. Anna is a Utility Warehouse partner with 2 children. Anna has run a floristry business for some time but recently decided on a change of direction, which will allow her more flexibility to work around family life. And of course some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Fear of inconsistent income
The freedom over your own calendar
How working as part of a team can help your confidence in business
Different methods of booking appointments
How different business tools work for some and not others

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today's episode is a few top tips to get over the mindset hurdles and get started in business.

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Karen Farrell. Karen is a modern day mindfulness and breathwork expert and mother of two! Mindfulness has helped Karen navigate the highs and lows of motherhood and she is now passionate about empowering mums to live a more mindful life by creating daily positive habits. Her approach to mindfulness is fun, refreshing and most importantly relevant in these busy modern times. When she’s not looking after her family, Karen can be found going for long walks in nature, practicing mindfulness and enjoying the present moment! And of course we asked Karen for some book recommendations

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Finding inner peace and resilience among the chaos of modern motherhood
Gathering an audience in a new space
Educating mums about resilience
Teaching from a place of understanding
The importance of authenticity
You never regret self care
Using little triggers to make mindfulness a habit
Gauging interest and demand before creating
Working on consistency

Karen is running a mindfulness and breathwork programme for Mums in September. You can find the register your interest form here

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is a solo episode all about being frozen in fear. Kate reflects on how this fear caused procrastination, inactivity and lack of visibility, and how closely it is linked to perfectionism and imposter syndrome.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Acknowledging you're frozen
How fear leads to procrastination
Finding out how common the feeling of fear in business is -
A fear of failure
A fear of success
Steps towards working through your fear

Find the show notes and any links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Katie Bowers. Katie Bowers is mum to Rosie (5) and Albie (4) and runs her business The Surrey Skin Clinic from home. Katie follows the principles of Corneotherapy which is the practice of treating skin, whilst respecting the skin’s barrier at all times. She works with the skin’s natural function to create change that lasts. Her holistic treatments are truly bespoke, taking into account the individual needs of each of her clients skin. As no two skins are the same, her treatments aren’t either. Katie discusses her journey so far, being just over a year since launching. She shares her ups and downs of running a business with young children and finding the ever challenging work/mum balance!

I spoke to Katie about some of the challenges that she has faced juggling business and Motherhood, and she shared some insights with me as to how she has worked through these challenges. And of course some book recommendations.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Katie talks about her little known approach to skin therapy
While we are conscious of what we put IN our bodies, we are less aware of what we put on our skin.
Finding the right qualifications and products to fit your ethos.
Being in business to help others as well as to make a living.
Finding a balance between motherhood and business
Slow and steady wins the race
Finding a brand that aligns with your values
The challenges that arise when a business adopts a similar name
Using AI to assist you with social media

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today Kate talks about Market Research to get your business started, and to keep your finger on the pulse.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Researching your target market and ideal client
Is geographical marketing relevant to you?
Researching demand
Competitor Analysis
Pricing
Financial Feasibility
Where to do your research
Market changes and keeping on top of your research.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Ruth Tsui. Ruth is a Certified Business Strategist and Accredited coach on a mission to empower female coaches, consultants and experts to grow a thriving, sustainable business. With Ruth's approach, it’s time to get off the Cashflow Coaster, craft your sell out offers and create consistent cashflow! Every business and every founder is unique which is reflected in Ruth’s personalised approach to developing your business strategy. Combined with coaching, Ruth helps her clients to create a simplified, balanced strategy tailored to their life and business. "It’s your business, your way!" When Ruth isn’t working, she can be found tramping through the countryside, running around after her two young children, on the climbing wall or drinking coffee! I spoke to Ruth about some of the challenges that she has faced juggling business and Motherhood, and she shared some insights with me as to how she has worked through these challenges. And of course some book recommendations (see list below). Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode: Ruth's journey navigating different businesses. Different business structures including the challenges of working as part of a franchise. Launching a face to face business as a pandemic starts. Pivoting to an online strategy. Losing your passion for the career you have had for so long. The underlying desire to be available more for family. Balance between business & Family is like a seesaw. The importance of a morning routine & self care, and how this has become a non-negotiable habit. The best time of the day. Start before you are ready. How falling teaches you to put your hands out next time. Airtable - Like a spreadsheet on steroids Fitting together the pieces of your own puzzle. Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today's episode, Kate talks about being consistently visible, and how it does pay off, with patience... Including a recent anecdote.

Find the show notes here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Laura Cruise, in which she tells us about coaching yourself to success. Laura is the Dream Transition Mentor, she mainly works with women to build the confident mindset they need to believe and progress into the dream life and business that they've always wanted.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Realising you can work for yourself.
Turning your confidence around.
Working through self coaching.
Growing your business in a way that suits you.
Unlearning what you've been told in childhood.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In today’s episode, Kate talks all about the overwhelm that so many of us (probably all) as Mums in Business face on a regular basis. Here are some of the key takeaways:

Coping with overwhelm.
How overwhelm presents itself.
Business and home-life overwhelm.
Recognising overwhelm.
Seeking help/support with overwhelm.

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In todays episode I interview Claire Winlow. Claire runs the website Red Kite Days, which is an incredible resource for Mums, full of reviews and recommendations for family friendly days out.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

The challenges of going back to a full time job after having children.
Google Analytics and the amazing insights that it can give to help you grow your business. Learning new skills as you go.
Replicating your business model to cover new geographical areas.
Building your team.
Taking on a new and very different business alongside an existing one.
The differences between running a business as a sole trader and a Ltd Company.

Find the show notes and the links to recommended tools and books here.

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In this episode Kate talks about the importance of vulnerability in Business, and how this and connections that you make, are what make you unique as a business owner.

In this episode we cover, we look at vulnerability and connection as important values, and how these feed into business.

Find the show notes here

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In todays episode I interview Lorna Taylor. Lorna is an Instagram Teacher and Content Strategist helping entrepreneurs and business owners get more visible online.

Here are some of the key takeaways from this episode:

Wanting something more after becoming a Mother

Finding your community and social media

Turning an interest into a business

How you can use Instagram to showcase your business

Keeping it simple on social media

The power of automation within your business

Managing your time effectively

Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools & books here

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In this episode Kate talks about managing your time as a Mum in Business. As Mums we have other commitments, and considerations which take up a huge amount of our time, meaning that the time we have to commit to our business is limited, and needs to be used as effectively as possible. In this episode we cover, time strategies for planning your time, prioritising your tasks, outsourcing, automating, and asking for help. Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools here

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In today's episode Kate talks to Amy De Sybel about the passion that she has for selling her husband's artwork. Amy de Sybel is a musician, teacher and art promoter. Amy sells the work of her husband Nathaniel Boyd. Amy's mission is to bring beautiful art directly to people through a variety of social media platforms and innovative performance based projects, circumventing the need to be affiliated to specific trends or established art institutions. Amy believes passionately in the need for art to be readily available to all, and for anyone to become a fine art collector. The core of the business focuses on the quality and beauty of each unique piece, which have inspired buyers to come back again and again. Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools & books here

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Today’s episode is an overview of the considerations that you need to have when creating a content creation strategy. I this episode, Kate covers: the importance of having a strategy what you want to achieve through your content types of content and which platforms to post on coming up with content ideas planning and creating your content batch creating content scheduling repurposing your content or creating multi-purpose content. Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools & mentioned businesses here

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Today's episode is an interview with Jackie Meek, who helps frazzled Mums make time for themselves by creating sustainable mindset habits to bring resilience, calmness and laser focused attention.

In this episode Jackie talks openly about the very personal struggles she went through which led her to starting her own business. Jackie talks in depth about her positive mental fitness bootcamp, equipping Mums to build their mental fitness so they can face life's challenges resourcefully.

You can find the shownotes here.

http://businessfoundationsformums.co.uk/021-jackie-meek

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Today’s episode is all about networking. Having children can make it challenging to attend networking meetings, and many people feel uncomfortable stepping into the unknown and anxious about having to stand up and talk in front of a group of strangers. In this episode, I explore some of the different styles of networking, from online, to informal, to more formal, and child friendly.

Find the show notes and the links to my own networking group here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Wendy Wood. Wendy is the co-founder of the Little Birth Company, Birth worker and women's business coach. Wendy and her business partner at the Little Birth company have trained hundreds of women to deliver hypnobirthing, whilst Wendy also supports numerous women in their business journeys, with her focus being helping her clients to stay in their own lane, do things, their way and not to feel that they have to follow to crowd or compare themselves to others. Wendy shares some of her own experiences of how she built her businesses to work around her family life, so that she can be there for her children and family, using time carefully and knowing what to focus on. She also talks about the importance of growing your audience on multiple platforms, and how she found this out the hard way.

Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools here

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Today’s episode is all about key financial terms… About understanding the basic terminology for the financial aspect of your business. Covering turnover, the difference between net profit and gross profit, allowable expenses, VAT, PAYE and corporation tax. Find the show notes here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Steph Newman. Steph is a Mum to Ava and runs her business, Facials by Stephanie, to share a back to basics approach to taking care of your skin. I spoke to Steph about how she decided to return to her passion of working with skin, and why she chose to start her own business, rather than join an existing salon, and Steph talks with huge passion about skin, and how she works with clients to address their skin issues, or simply to get a good skin routine with the right products for their skin. And of course some book recommendations. Find the shownotes and links to the recommended books & apps here

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Today’s episode is all about Resilience... about getting back up and trying again after you have been knocked down, or suffered a failure. About learning from our experiences, and picking ourselves up, learning from our mistakes, changing our direction and giving it another go.

Find the show notes and the links to the recommended books here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Julie Brown. Julie is a visibility and media coach working with female coaches and consultants to increase their impact, credibility and attract more clients. Eighteen years enjoying a career as a journalist/editor places Julie in an ideal position to help her clients develop and execute a media strategy to tell the world about their greatness and put them ahead of their competitors. This coupled with her knowledge of marketing, messaging, writing and storytelling, Julie confidently leads business owners towards success. Add in being a qualified and accredited life coach, she will wrestle to the ground any mindset issues threatening to hold you back. And of course some book and tool recommendations. Find the show notes and the links to the recommended tools and books here

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A question that I am often asked, and see asked in so many business groups is "should I have a Facebook Business page or a Facebook Group?". Here, I talk about the features, benefits and values of both.

Find the show notes here.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Helen Wood of Ava Rose Marketing. Helen started her career running marketing campaigns for large international brands before deciding to work with her husband in their construction business, growing the business to doubling year on year. Seeing the success that marketing could bring to a small business, Helen decided to start her own marketing consultancy bringing her wealth of experience to other small business owners, either supporting them with a marketing strategy, or delivering their marketing for them.

Find the shownotes and the links to the recommended books here.

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In today’s episode Kate talks about identifying your ideal client and why this is so important.

Find the shownotes for this episode here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Kerry Williams. Kerry has run her business since she inherited it when her Mum sadly passed away, when she was still a teenager. After a few other ventures, Kerry has always come back to her dance school, and more recently has started a children's and adults events business. Having her own businesses has always allowed Kerry the flexibility to be around for her family.

Find the Shownotes and the links to the recommended books here.

Click here to join the Business Planning Challenge

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In this episode of Business Foundations for Mums, Kate discusses the importance of self care as a Mum, and how ensuring that you look after yourself is imperative to have the mental resources available to give to your family and those around you. Find the Business Planning Challenge here Find the shownotes for this episode here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Stacey Young. Stacey started her Papercutting business after her first child was born, whilst trying to find a creative outlet.

Find the Shownotes and the links to the recommended books here

Click here to join the Business Planning Challenge

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In this episode of Business Foundations for Mums, Kate builds on her discussion in episode 006 about Instagram Basics, this time covering the importance of using hashtags, but also how essential it is to research your hashtags, and think strategically about which hashtags to use.

Find the shownotes and links mentioned in this episode here.

Click here to join the Business Planning Challenge.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Claire Gilliland-Rawlings. Claire started her business with both the aim to spend more time with her 3 children, whilst also wanting to do something to support her passion for sustainability. Setting up as a Virtual Assistant allowed Claire to work flexibly around her children. Find the Shownotes and the links to the recommended books here.

Click here to Join the Business Planning Challenge.

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Today's episode covers the basics of Instagram. Kate talks through the different elements of a profile, and how to make it work best for you, as well as how to create a post or plan you grid. This is the first in number of Instagram episodes. Find the shownotes here.

Click here to Join the Business Planning Challenge.

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Today’s episode is an interview with Vivienne Hill. Viv is the Mum of 4 girls, and talks today about both the business that she had when her children were small, and also her current business, inspired by her own experience of anxiety as a young person. Viv brings to the interview a wealth of experience from her coaching skills, and how these skills have changed her outlook on running a business. Find the Shownotes and the links to the recommended books here. Find the Business Planning Challenge here.

Find the shownotes for this episode here.

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Today's episode is a short introduction to some basic marketing concepts. In this episode, Kate discusses the importance of getting your messages in the right place to be seen/heard by your target market. There is an overview of Touchpoints, of the importance of delivering value, building trust and being relatable, and why people buy from people.

Kate also touches on what Content Marketing is, and how Customer experience can be a marketing tool of it's own.

Find the shownotes and links to recommended books here.

Click here to Join the Business Planning Challenge.

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This episode is an interview with Nic Mucedola. Nic is a Mum to 3 children and runs her business, In Craft Corner, making personalised tag blankets, keepsake gifts from old clothes and other baby items, and now also supports other Women with crafting businesses to understand the importance of marketing. I spoke to Nic about some of the challenges that she has faced juggling business and Motherhood, and she shared some insights with me as to how she has worked through these challenges. Find the Business Planning Challenge here

Find the shownotes, links to Nic's business here.

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In this episode, Kate talks about the Why behind your Business. Why it is so important to know why you want the business that you do, and why you want to make it successful. For many Mums, their Why revolves around flexibility to work whilst being available for their children. A why could be based around wanting to change something within your lifestyle, your family situation, or being a role model to your children.

Find the Business Planning Challenge here

Find the shownotes for this episode here

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Today’s episode is an interview with Vicki Bowden. Vicki is a Mum of 2 children and runs her businesses V Bowden Photography and Early Years Mum, focusing on delivering services that really support Mums in the first few years of Motherhood. I spoke to Vicki about some of the challenges that she has faced juggling business and Motherhood, and she shared some insights with me as to how she has worked through these challenges. Find the Business Planning Challenge here Find the shownotes, links to Vicki's businesses, and all of the books, and businesses that we discussed here.

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In this trailer I introduce myself and a little of my background, so that you can see if Business Foundations for Mums is the podcast for you.

Business Foundations for Mums: Recent Episodes

Kate Butcher