Conversations of Inspiration

Conversations of Inspiration

Holly Tucker MBE

Conversations of Inspiration brings you life changing wisdom along with heartbreaking stories of resilience, tenacity and triumph. Since launching two small business marketplaces (Holly & Co and notonthehighstreet), Holly Tucker MBE has spoken with more than 175 founders, creatives and entrepreneurs on this podcast who have been vulnerable enough to share what it really took to get them where they are today, with warmth and wisdom. Prepare to be inspired.

Letter To My Younger Seld with Zoe Kalar, founder and CEO of WeAre8

Letter To My Younger Seld with Zoe Kalar, founder and CEO of WeAre8

In this micro episode meet Zoe Kalar, founder and CEO of WeAre8, the social media app that not only has zero tolerance for hate but that also generates millions of pounds shared across charities, creatives and users each and every month in the process. Tracking across the decades, Zoe’s letter is warm, authentic and full of the sort of advice we’d all love to give to our younger selves if we could just step back in time. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life

Feb 20, • 9:47

Letter To My Younger Self with Edward Perry co-founder of COOK, the award-winning frozen meals & puddings

Letter To My Younger Self with Edward Perry co-founder of COOK, the award-winning frozen meals & puddings

"Live each day in the present – for the day is all you have. Don’t think you’ll find satisfaction through external achievement – find your peace in each day and ride high on the small moments in life." Edward Perry, co-founder of COOK, was championing business as a force for good long before B Corps became a movement. In this micro episode, he shares a deeply personal Letter to My Younger Self – reflecting on the lessons, gratitude and experiences that shaped both his life and business. With

Feb 13, • 7:31

Letter To My Younger Self with Jacqueline Gold CBE, former CEO of Ann Summers

Letter To My Younger Self with Jacqueline Gold CBE, former CEO of Ann Summers

This micro episode shares the words and wisdom of the late, great Jacqueline Gold CBE, former CEO of Ann Summers, as she shares a letter written to her 12 year old self. In this highly emotional letter, Jacquline reflects on the incredible journey she went on from a young girl overcoming her own personal challenges to a highly respected businesswoman who pioneered change and empowered women in the boardroom as well as in the bedroom. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that b

Feb 6, • 7:52

Letter To My Younger Self with Perry Haydn Taylor, founder of big fish the brand, design and marketing consultancy.

Letter To My Younger Self with Perry Haydn Taylor, founder of big fish the brand, design and marketing consultancy.

Meet Perry Haydn Taylor, brand genius, design guru and true disruptor. Founder of big fish an award-winning brand, design and marketing consultancy.   His work shines out of many kitchen cupboards and fridges, from Dorset Cereals or Whole Earth to Gü desserts.  And in this brand new micro podcast episode Perry shares with us his unique ability to see magic in the mundane, his belief in the power of positivity and the lessons of a life well lived in an extraordinary letter written to his younge

Jan 30, • 13:15

Letters to My Younger Self with Shamil Thakrar, co-founder of Dishoom

Letters to My Younger Self with Shamil Thakrar, co-founder of Dishoom

In this heartfelt micro-episode, Shamil Thakrar, the visionary founder of Dishoom, pens a poignant letter to his younger self. Sharing his journey with vulnerability and grace, Shamil offers timeless advice on navigating life’s challenges, nurturing curiosity, and embracing the beauty in uncertainty. Shamil’s reflections on discomfort and resilience are truly transformative. He reminds us that our darkest moments often lead to the brightest opportunities, urging us to sit with discomfort, treat

Jan 23, • 6:49

Letters To My Younger Self with Tamara Lohan MBE, CEO and Co-Founder of Mr. and Mrs. Smith

Letters To My Younger Self with Tamara Lohan MBE, CEO and Co-Founder of Mr. and Mrs. Smith

In this poignant micro episode, Tamara Lohan MBE, the visionary CEO and Co-Founder of the travel platform Mr. and Mrs. Smith, shares a deeply reflective letter to her younger self. Her heartfelt words resonate with authenticity and wisdom, reminding us that the journey of life is filled with valuable lessons, often disguised as mistakes. Tamara's insights highlight the significance of embracing imperfection, the importance of nurturing relationships, and the necessity of seeking support from th

Jan 16, • 9:36

Letters To My Younger Self with serial entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

Letters To My Younger Self with serial entrepreneur Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

In this enlightening micro episode, Marcia Kilgore, the dynamic inventor, entrepreneur, investor, advisor and founder of Beauty Pie, Bliss, Soap and Glory and Fit Flop, shares a heartfelt letter to her younger self. Her words resonate with optimism and resilience, reminding us that every challenge we face is a valuable lesson in disguise. Marcia's insights emphasise the importance of hard work, gratitude, and the power of positive thinking. Her words will encourage you to embrace your struggles

Jan 9, • 7:36

Letters To My Younger Self with Sir Tim Smit KBE founder of the Eden Project

Letters To My Younger Self with Sir Tim Smit KBE founder of the Eden Project

In this micro episode, Sir Tim Smit KBE, the visionary founder of the Eden Project, shares a deeply personal letter to his younger self. His advice is both profound and practical, encouraging us all to think big, stay curious, and embrace creativity. With a perfect mix of wisdom and wonder, Sir Tim reminds us that life is an adventure, and the more we learn, explore, and challenge the status quo, the more we can shape our future. This episode will leave you inspired to savor every moment and l

Dec 12, 2024 • 9:29

Letters To My Younger Self with Sahar Hashemi co-founder of Coffee Republic and founder of Buy Women Built

Letters To My Younger Self with Sahar Hashemi co-founder of Coffee Republic and founder of Buy Women Built

Join Sahar Hashemi, trailblazing co-founder of Coffee Republic and founder of Buy Women Built, as she shares an emotional and heartfelt letter to her younger self. In this moving micro-episode, Sahar reflects on the power of daring to dream, the resilience needed to navigate life’s ups and downs, and the joy of achieving far beyond even your wildest imagination. Her words are a reminder that the journey to doing what you love is often as transformative as the destination. Prepare to be inspire

Dec 5, 2024 • 7:27

Letter To My Younger Self with Giovanna Fletcher actress, author, podcast host, and the beloved I’m a Celebrity Queen of the Castle

Letter To My Younger Self with Giovanna Fletcher actress, author, podcast host, and the beloved I’m a Celebrity Queen of the Castle

Step into the heartfelt world of Giovanna Fletcher—actress, author, podcast host, and the beloved I’m a Celebrity Queen of the Castle—as she shares a deeply personal letter to her younger self. In this micro-episode, Giovanna’s gentle wisdom encourages us to embrace change, find joy in life’s simple moments, and quiet the noise to truly be present. With insights on self-acceptance and leading with an open heart, her words remind us that every chapter in life is an opportunity for growth and won

Nov 28, 2024 • 7:36

Letter To My Younger Self with Sir John Hegarty founder of BBH advertising agency and The Garage Soho.

Letter To My Younger Self with Sir John Hegarty founder of BBH advertising agency and The Garage Soho.

What happens when a creative legend like Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH and The Garage Soho, shares a letter to his younger self? Pure inspiration. In this micro-episode, John distills a lifetime of groundbreaking work and visionary thinking into words that resonate deeply with anyone on a creative journey. With wisdom like “Only read good stuff—because good things rub off,” John reminds us of the importance of clarity, focus, and staying true to our creative purpose. Whether you’re feeling

Nov 21, 2024 • 7:40

Conversations of Inspiration: 2024 Year in Review

Conversations of Inspiration: 2024 Year in Review

As this year draws to a close, Holly reflects on one of the most transformational chapters of her life—a rollercoaster journey through 2024, filled with exhilarating highs, challenging lows, and moments of deep uncertainty. From the pressure of launching her marketplace under the spotlight to questioning whether she was right to take the leap again, Holly shares her raw and honest experiences navigating this pivotal year. Throughout the year, the Conversations of Inspiration podcast has been a

Nov 18, 2024 • 1:09:25

Letter To My Younger Self with Trinny Woodall founder and CEO of Trinny London

Letter To My Younger Self with Trinny Woodall founder and CEO of Trinny London

In this powerful micro podcast episode, Holly reconnects with the remarkable Trinny Woodall, founder and CEO of Trinny London and a woman whose career in fashion and media has influenced and inspired for over 30 years. In a heartfelt letter to her younger self, Trinny shares the raw truths, hard-won wisdom, and deeply personal reflections that define her journey. With courage and honesty, she dives into moments of vulnerability, reminding us of the importance of speaking our truths—even when the

Nov 14, 2024 • 11:16

Defying the odds and empowering others to do the same with Ed Jackson, Broadcaster, Author and Co-founder of M2M Foundation & Lois Jackson, Coach and Co-founder of M2M

Defying the odds and empowering others to do the same with Ed Jackson, Broadcaster, Author and Co-founder of M2M Foundation & Lois Jackson, Coach and Co-founder of M2M

What do you do when life, as you know it, shatters in an instant? In this episode, Holly speaks with Ed and Lois Jackson and explores the profound and life-altering journey that they have been on. Once living a dream life filled with athletic success and endless opportunities, their world was turned upside down when Ed, a former professional rugby player, suffered a catastrophic accident that left him paralyzed. What followed was not only a physical battle to defy the odds and regain movement

Nov 11, 2024 • 1:11:15

Letter To My Younger Self with Greg Hoffman author and former Chief Marketing Officer of Nike

Letter To My Younger Self with Greg Hoffman author and former Chief Marketing Officer of Nike

Get a glimpse into one of the most phenomenal entrepreneurial minds in the world with Greg Hoffman, author and former Chief Marketing Officer of Nike, a man who has not only led some of the most powerful marketing campaigns in history but one who has an awe-inspiring understanding of what makes human beings tick.  In this micro episode Greg reads a letter to his 7 year old self, sharing the insights and experiences that carved his path from humble beginnings to reaching the pinnacle of success.

Nov 7, 2024 • 7:47

Teaching empathy and fighting injustice with Leslee Udwin, film-maker, human rights activist & founder and executive chair of Think Equal

Teaching empathy and fighting injustice with Leslee Udwin, film-maker, human rights activist & founder and executive chair of Think Equal

What if the key to a more just, compassionate world started in the classroom? In this powerful and thought-provoking episode, Holly speaks with award-winning filmmaker, human rights advocate, and education activist, Leslee Udwin. Known for her groundbreaking documentary India's Daughter and as the visionary behind Think Equal, Leslee shares her journey from confronting injustice on the screen to reshaping education for empathy, compassion, and social equality. Throughout their conversation, Les

Nov 4, 2024 • 1:38:27

Letter To My Younger Self with Anya Hindmarch CBE accessories designer, sustainability campaigner and bestselling author

Letter To My Younger Self with Anya Hindmarch CBE accessories designer, sustainability campaigner and bestselling author

What would you say to your 21 year old self? What advice and wisdom would you share? In this micro episode, we hear from Anya Hindmarch CBE, accessories designer, design and arts advocate, sustainability campaigner and Sunday Times bestselling author.  as she gives us a glimpse into the world through her eyes with an intimate letter written to her younger self. With an unique ability to make the ordinary, extraordinary, Anya’s letter is a love note to self, one that encourages and supports, a

Oct 31, 2024 • 8:10

The Greatest Misconceptions About Women in Prison with Lady Edwina Grosvenor Justice System Reformer, Founder & Chair of One Small Thing

The Greatest Misconceptions About Women in Prison with Lady Edwina Grosvenor Justice System Reformer, Founder & Chair of One Small Thing

What drives someone born into one of the UK’s most prominent aristocratic families to dedicate their life to prison reform, particularly advocating for the needs of women behind bars? In this episode, Holly speaks with the remarkable Lady Edwina Grosvenor, whose background might lead you to expect a life of privilege and tradition—but her story is anything but conventional. Edwina shares how, “From a really young age, I felt that injustice of the luck of birth,” an early realisation that sparke

Oct 28, 2024 • 1:27:22

Letter To My Younger Self with Sophie Morgan TV presenter, author & disability activist

Letter To My Younger Self with Sophie Morgan TV presenter, author & disability activist

In this micro-episode, Holly revisits the extraordinary letter Sophie Morgan—TV presenter, author, and disability activist—wrote to her younger self. Sophie shares her powerful story of resilience after a life-altering car accident at 18 left her paralysed, yet propelled her towards a new, vibrant path. Through her letter, she reminds us that the tenacity and strength often labeled as "difficult" are the very qualities that help us overcome life’s toughest moments. This episode will leave you f

Oct 24, 2024 • 10:06

Pioneering a new approach to charitable giving with Matt Pohlson, founder of Omaze

Pioneering a new approach to charitable giving with Matt Pohlson, founder of Omaze

Imagine turning down a dream job, facing a mountain of debt, and surviving a life-or-death experience—only to emerge with a mission that’s transforming the world of giving. In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration, Matt Pohlson, co-founder of Omaze—a platform that offers life-changing experiences and prizes while raising funds for charitable causes—shares his remarkable journey. It’s packed with insights for anyone looking to make a difference. What you’ll learn: Turn fear into fuel

Oct 21, 2024 • 1:05:33

Letter To My Younger Self with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and Jam Jar Investments

Letter To My Younger Self with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and Jam Jar Investments

Dive into this inspiring micro episode of Letters to My Younger Self with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and Jam Jar Investments. In this heartfelt letter to his younger self, Richard shares invaluable life lessons that offer profound insights for anyone navigating their own journey. Listeners will gain: Empathy and Connection: Discover how Richard’s reflections on friendship and vulnerability resonate with your own experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of life’s challenge

Oct 17, 2024 • 7:54

Balancing family life and entrepreneurship with Patrick and Karen O’Flaherty, founders of Pip Organic

Balancing family life and entrepreneurship with Patrick and Karen O’Flaherty, founders of Pip Organic

Meet Patrick and Karen O’Flaherty, the dynamic husband and wife duo behind Pip Organic, a pioneering force in the organic food and drink industry. Their story began in the bustling heart of London, where their shared passion for health, sustainability, and community blossomed into a visionary business idea. United by their commitment to creating wholesome, organic products, Patrick and Karen embarked on a journey to transform the way people consume food and beverages. In this episode, Patrick

Oct 14, 2024 • 1:17:31

Letter To My Younger Self with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer

Letter To My Younger Self with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer

In this deeply reflective micro-episode, Holly revisits Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones’ powerful letter to his younger self. Wilfred, a businessman, farmer, and founder of The Black Farmer, has always forged his own path, and his letter serves as a heartfelt reminder of the timeless wisdom we often overlook as we grow older. Inspired by Baz Luhrmann’s ‘Wear Sunscreen’, Holly delves into Wilfred’s words, which highlight the importance of holding onto childlike curiosity, passion, and adventure, no matte

Oct 10, 2024 • 7:34

Graft, grace & grit with Debbie Wosskow OBE, entrepreneur, investor, author & co-founder of All Bright

Graft, grace & grit with Debbie Wosskow OBE, entrepreneur, investor, author & co-founder of All Bright

What does it really take to build a legacy of success while lifting others up along the way?  In this episode, Holly speaks with Debbie Wosskow OBE, the powerhouse entrepreneur, investor, and author behind multiple thriving businesses. From her entrepreneurial roots, Debbie grew up understanding the value of hard work and resilience - traits that have fueled her remarkable journey from founding Mantra, Love Home Swap and AllBright to empowering thousands of women across the globe. Now, at 50,

Oct 7, 2024 • 1:14:14

Letter To My Younger Self with Joe Wicks MBE founder of The Body Coach

Letter To My Younger Self with Joe Wicks MBE founder of The Body Coach

In this inspiring micro-episode, Holly revisits the heartfelt letter written by Joe Wicks, the nation’s favourite fitness coach, to his younger self. Known for his infectious energy and passion for helping others, Joe reflects on the challenges and self-doubt he faced on his journey to becoming a "10-year overnight success." His letter offers a rare glimpse into the personal moments and decisions that shaped his extraordinary rise to fame. This episode will inspire anyone who has ever felt lost

Oct 3, 2024 • 5:46

Putting the heart & soul into business with Paul Hargreaves, author, founder & CEO of Cotswold Fayre & founder of Flourish

Putting the heart & soul into business with Paul Hargreaves, author, founder & CEO of Cotswold Fayre & founder of Flourish

Paul Hargreaves, the visionary founder behind Cotswold Fayre, a speciality food wholesaler, and Flourish, a 9,000 ft food hall, restaurant and home and lifestyle store is a journey is one of remarkable resilience and purpose-driven leadership.  With an unwavering commitment to his values,  Paul shares with Holly the profound impact of a life changing trip to Kenya that shifted his perspective, igniting a deeper commitment to creating a business that prioritises people and the planet alongside p

Sep 30, 2024 • 1:27:00

Letter To My Younger Self with Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley CH Tech Pioneer, Businesswoman & Philanthropist

Letter To My Younger Self with Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley CH Tech Pioneer, Businesswoman & Philanthropist

A child refugee, tech pioneer, philanthropist, businesswoman, and true trailblazer, Dame Stephanie paved the way for generations of women to come. And in this micro episode, Dame Stephanie shares the soul-stirring letter she wrote to her younger self.  Dame Stephanie’s words are drawn from a life of extraordinary resilience and remarkable achievement. They are a powerful reminder that with determination, vision, and unwavering self-belief, we can transcend almost any circumstance and achieve g

Sep 26, 2024 • 6:37

Tackling fashion waste and embracing sustainability with Cally Russell founder and CEO of This is Unfolded

Tackling fashion waste and embracing sustainability with Cally Russell founder and CEO of This is Unfolded

Did you know that 30% of the new clothes made every year are never sold? This year that will be 26 billion items of clothing!   CEO and co-founder of This Is Unfolded, Cally Russell, is a pioneering force in sustainable fashion. Known for his bold decision to walk away from lucrative offers on Dragon’s Den, Cally has dedicated his career to disrupting the fashion industry by tackling waste and promoting conscious consumerism. In this episode, Cally shares his journey from humble beginnings

Sep 23, 2024 • 1:20:49

Letter To My Younger Self with Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO Awards

Letter To My Younger Self with Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO Awards

This is a micro episode absolutely full of soul and one in which Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO awards shares a profound and heartfelt letter with her younger self. Full of hard won advice, Kanya’s words are a lesson in self discovery, of what it means to look inwards and how that laser focus can be used to build your ideas and dreams. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life the transformative power of a simple letter.

Sep 19, 2024 • 12:51

Discover the healing power of water, with Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave and Blue Health

Discover the healing power of water, with Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave and Blue Health

In this captivating episode, Holly sits down with visionary entrepreneur Nick Hounsfield, founder of The Wave and One Blue World, for an inspiring conversation about creating change, overcoming challenges, and his journey from osteopath to social impact pioneer. Nick's story is nothing short of an entrepreneurial fairytale—a dream born from £500, a love for water, and a relentless determination to bring a piece of the ocean to Bristol. He shares the decade-long journey of building The Wave, a

Sep 16, 2024 • 1:13:37

Letter To My Younger Self with Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty

Letter To My Younger Self with Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty

In this micro episode, beauty mogul Bobbi Brown – founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty –  shares insights from her incredible journey of building a billion-dollar beauty brand with a heartfelt letter to her younger self. Genuine and unfiltered, at the heart of Bobbi’s letter is the message that feeling comfortable in your own skin is the ultimate key to freedom. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life the transformative power of a simple letter.

Sep 12, 2024 • 7:22

Letter To My Younger Self Sir John Timpson CBE, Chairman & Owner of Timpson

Letter To My Younger Self Sir John Timpson CBE, Chairman & Owner of Timpson

In this micro episode, Sir John Timpson, chairman and owner of Timpson shares his depth of knowledge and experience.  His words are testament to a life lived with purpose, a career built on unwavering principles and an astonishing commitment to kindness and understanding. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life the transformative power of a simple letter.

Jul 11, 2024 • 6:29

Letters To My Younger Self with Fearne Cotton founder of Happy Place

Letters To My Younger Self with Fearne Cotton founder of Happy Place

In this micro episode, join Fearne Cotton, broadcaster, writer and founder of Happy Place whilst she shares advice with her younger self. Honest and heartwarming, Fearne’s letter is full of sage advice, encouragement and acceptance. It’s a letter that allows an insight into a younger version of all of us, one that might be searching for the right path to follow when our older selves know that if you just trust in the process, life will always take you in the right direction. This is your micr

Jul 4, 2024 • 9:57

S20 Ep10: 200th Episode Special: What if Entrepreneurs Ruled the Country?

S20 Ep10: 200th Episode Special: What if Entrepreneurs Ruled the Country?

In celebration of 200 episodes of Conversation of Inspiration, this special episode tackles some of the greatest challenges faced by our society today. Set against the backdrop of political fever as the general election looms, Holly explores what the future could look like, if the most brilliant minds and founders were spearheading the policies of our country — those who truly are experts, those who have actually ‘walked the walk’. How would they reshape our world with their boundless creativit

Jul 1, 2024 • 1:17:38

Letter To My Younger Self with Dame Mary Perkins DBE, co-founder of Specsavers

Letter To My Younger Self with Dame Mary Perkins DBE, co-founder of Specsavers

A micro episode with Dame Mary Perkins DBE, visionary founder of Specsavers and a woman with a passion for people. Whilst sharing her letter to her younger self and reflecting on her 40 plus years spent building an empire, Dame Mary shares her words of wisdom, the things she wished she had known at the start of her journey. Gracious, grounded and utterly genuine, Mary’s words which resonate as much today as they have. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life t

Jun 27, 2024 • 8:49

S20 Ep9: Feeding change one bite at a time with Tom Herbert, founder of The Long Table

S20 Ep9: Feeding change one bite at a time with Tom Herbert, founder of The Long Table

Meet Tom Herbert, the man whose life and work and steeped in the rich aromatic legacy of baking. Tom hails from a family of bakers, where the art of crafting exceptional bread has been passed down through the generations. In this episode, Holly speaks to Tom about the story of his family business, Hobbs House Bakery and delves into his journey to becoming one half of the TV show, The Fabulous Baker Boys. But Tom’s journey didn’t stop there. Fueled by a sense of purpose to change the world thro

Jun 24, 2024 • 1:07:18

Letter To My Younger Self with David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Hiut Denim

Letter To My Younger Self with David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Hiut Denim

In this micro episode, we get a glimpse into the mind of the mission-led entrepreneur David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Huit Denim. David’s letter to his younger self is, put simply, a life lesson and one so chock full of wisdom and soulful advice that you’ll want to share it with everyone you know. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that brings to life the transformative power of a simple letter.

Jun 20, 2024 • 6:39

S20 Ep8: The power of the female vote with Helen Pankhurst CBE, women’s rights activist, scholar and writer

S20 Ep8: The power of the female vote with Helen Pankhurst CBE, women’s rights activist, scholar and writer

This week, Holly meets Helen Pankhurst CBE,  a woman whose life work is testament to the enduring spirit of the suffragettes. And in this episode Helen shares intimate stories from her extraordinary heritage, offering a unique glimpse into the lives and struggles of her pioneering ancestors, diving into how their legacy has shaped her own path in activism and to advancing women’s rights in the 21st century. Helen speaks to Holly about the current landscape of feminism, the progress that has be

Jun 17, 2024 • 1:08:03

Letter To My Younger Self with Rio Ferdinand, Sportsman, Broadcaster and Campaigner

Letter To My Younger Self with Rio Ferdinand, Sportsman, Broadcaster and Campaigner

As a legendary footballer and a man who has navigated some of life’s toughest challenges, you might also know that Rio Ferdinand is also a man who isn't afraid to be vulnerable. In this micro episode, you will hear the letter that Rio wrote to his younger self, a letter that speaks about the road he has travelled, from the council estate on which he grew up to the heady heights of success and his journey with grief. It is also a letter that speaks to his resilience, compassion and belief in ot

Jun 13, 2024 • 10:05

S20 Ep7:  Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip, Seasn & Pollen Projects on pioneering a new category and building a global brand

S20 Ep7: Ben Branson, founder of Seedlip, Seasn & Pollen Projects on pioneering a new category and building a global brand

In this week's episode, join Holly as she sits down with Ben Branson, the remarkable and visionary founder behind Seedlip, Seasn, and Pollen Projects.  From the humble beginnings in his kitchen to pioneering a global brand in just four years, Ben’s story is one of creativity, dedication, and a relentless drive to challenge the status quo. Raised in a family deeply connected to farming, Ben spent his childhood immersed in the wonders of nature, fostering a profound appreciation for the botanic

Jun 10, 2024 • 1:18:01

Letter To My Younger Self with Julie Deane CBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company

Letter To My Younger Self with Julie Deane CBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company

In this micro episode, Julie Deane CBE, the remarkable founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company shares her wisdom and reflections of an extraordinary journey in a letter to her younger self. Julie’s letter is one from the heart and one that reminds each of us of the power of embracing our individuality and how by having the courage to go against the grain and trust in our own instincts we will always be one step closer to our dreams. This is your micro shot of inspiration and an episode that b

Jun 6, 2024 • 6:10

S20 Ep6: Rosie Nixon, author, broadcaster, coach & former Editor in Chief at HELLO! magazine on redefining success and midlife reinvention

S20 Ep6: Rosie Nixon, author, broadcaster, coach & former Editor in Chief at HELLO! magazine on redefining success and midlife reinvention

How can you learn to be self-compassionate and live the life you want to lead?  In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Rosie Nixon, an accomplished author, broadcaster, consultant, and coach, best known for her 16-year tenure as editor-in-chief of Hello! Magazine.  Rosie shares her experiences with stress and burnout, leading to a career reevaluation and her decision to become a life coach. They delve into the importance of self-care, kindness, and authenticity, with Rosie reveal

Jun 3, 2024 • 1:18:08

S20 Ep5: Antony and Richard Joseph, co-founders of Joseph Joseph, on cutting it in kitchenware

S20 Ep5: Antony and Richard Joseph, co-founders of Joseph Joseph, on cutting it in kitchenware

What’s the secret to designing award-winning and best-selling homeware for 20 years?  In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Antony and Richard Joseph, twin brothers and co-founders of Joseph Joseph often referred to as the ‘Apple of homeware.’  You'll hear the captivating story of their entrepreneurial journey, from a childhood surrounded by creativity to the thrill of their first major order. Discover how they conquered the European market with sheer determination and a road tr

May 20, 2024 • 1:02:58

S20 Ep4: Edwina Dunn OBE, Data Scientist Pioneer and founder of The Female Lead campaign on Pioneering Big Data and Empowering Women

S20 Ep4: Edwina Dunn OBE, Data Scientist Pioneer and founder of The Female Lead campaign on Pioneering Big Data and Empowering Women

How can you use customer data to create brand loyalty?  In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration meet Edwina Dunn OBE, a true trailblazer in both the realms of big data and female empowerment. Immersed in the world of tech and data since the early 80’s, a time when customers' data was often discarded, Edwina’s vision led to creation of the groundbreaking Tesco Clubcard,  turning the retail industry on its head and forever changing the way in which brands connect with their customers. E

May 13, 2024 • 1:17:50

S20 Ep3: Clover Stroud, journalist, author & podcast host, on navigating grief and finding joy

S20 Ep3: Clover Stroud, journalist, author & podcast host, on navigating grief and finding joy

Can the shadow of death truly teach us the value of life?  In this soul-stirring and life-affirming episode journalist, author, and podcast host Clover Stroud shares her journey through loss, creativity, and the transformative power of love and bravery, offering you a deeply personal and universally resonant perspective on living a life full of contrasts and redemption. From the beauty and challenges of aging, the concept of home and belonging, to the depths of grief and the resilience of the

May 7, 2024 • 1:08:03

S20 Ep2: Eshita Kabra-Davies, founder & CEO of By Rotation, on revolutionising the rental fashion industry

S20 Ep2: Eshita Kabra-Davies, founder & CEO of By Rotation, on revolutionising the rental fashion industry

Ready to revolutionise your fashion choices? Discover how one woman is changing the world of fashion and empowering women to turn their wardrobes into serious financial assets, with the Airbnb of clothing.  In this inspiring episode, Holly Tucker chats with Eshita Kabra-Davies, the trailblazing founder and CEO of By Rotation, about transforming the fashion industry through a sustainable, rental-based approach. Eshita shares her entrepreneurial journey, from the spark of inspiration whilst on ho

Apr 29, 2024 • 1:04:38

S20 Ep1: Giovanna Fletcher, on living a life of self-acceptance

S20 Ep1: Giovanna Fletcher, on living a life of self-acceptance

Why did Giovanna Fletcher call her encounter with royalty 'bizarrely beautiful'? Actress, author, podcast host, a true champion of mothers and the “I’m a Celebrity” Queen of the Castle shares her extraordinary journey of resilience and empowerment. From her experience starring in the West End musical "Everybody's Talking About Jamie" to her childhood encounters with bullying, which ignited her passion for creativity. She candidly discusses societal pressures around body image and her transform

Apr 22, 2024 • 1:22:08

Jay Blades MBE, presenter, social enterpriser & furniture restorer, on the beauty of repairing communities through craft

Jay Blades MBE, presenter, social enterpriser & furniture restorer, on the beauty of repairing communities through craft

Jay Blades MBE, presenter of the BBC’s beloved The Repair Shop, returns to the podcast for a second time with his infectious energy and soulful wisdom — this time, sharing his belief in the power of using human connection to strengthen communities through craft.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Jay leans into vulnerability, seeing it as being an essential tool for transformation  Be inspired by his dedication to bringing people together through creativity and craft, to make a d

Mar 18, 2024 • 1:02:21

Perry Haydn Taylor, on revolutionising how we think about brand

Perry Haydn Taylor, on revolutionising how we think about brand

Meet Perry Haydn Taylor, brand genius, design guru and true disruptor. His work shines out of many kitchen cupboards and fridges, from Dorset Cereals or Whole Earth to Gü desserts. For 30 years, Perry has helped entrepreneurs start and transform some of our most extraordinary brands with his award-winning design and marketing consultancy, Big Fish. Find out how.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Perry creates true disrupter brands by challenging conventional wisdom Discover h

Mar 11, 2024 • 1:18:12

Dame Sarah Storey DBE, on leaving a legacy of determination, resilience and triumph

Dame Sarah Storey DBE, on leaving a legacy of determination, resilience and triumph

Dame Sarah Storey is Britain’s most decorated Paralympian and her uplifting journey is a beacon of hope, and testament to the power of resilience. They say if you believe in yourself anything is possible. This week's guest has a story of unparalleled determination, tenacity and triumph.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Dame Sarah’s insatiable curiosity to see how far, and how fast, she can go has fueled her  Learn how obstacles can be met with a belief in ourselves that ultimat

Mar 4, 2024 • 1:04:41

Elvis & Kresse Wesling CBE, founders of Elvis & Kresse, on the power of circular businesses

Elvis & Kresse Wesling CBE, founders of Elvis & Kresse, on the power of circular businesses

Elvis & Kresse is a superb example of a circular business, making luxury accessories from recycled materials (mainly fire hoses). Since 2005, they’ve saved 300 tonnes of decommissioned ones from landfill and donated 50% of profits. Discover how this incredible company puts the environment, ethics and community first — to great effect. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn more about why many believe circular businesses like this one are the future Discover Elvis and Kresse’s passion

Feb 26, 2024 • 1:16:53

Antonia & Jonny Philp, founders of Nursem, on passion, purpose and The Nursem Promise

Antonia & Jonny Philp, founders of Nursem, on passion, purpose and The Nursem Promise

Antonia and Jonny Philp worked tirelessly to create a hand cream that helps our nation’s NHS professionals and is commercially successful (they promise to give a month’s worth of free hand cream to a nurse or midwife with every purchase). Hear how they were tested — from Covid to Dragons’ Den — and truly found their purpose.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear Antonia and Jonny’s unwavering dedication to placing their values to give back above all else Discover more about achieving gr

Feb 19, 2024 • 1:00:54

Alex Head, founder of Social Pantry, on creating a recipe for social change

Alex Head, founder of Social Pantry, on creating a recipe for social change

From catering events for the Hollywood elite to employing prison leavers, Alex Head opens the doors to her socially conscious catering business — and it’s fascinating. A business creating meaningful change, providing second chances for ex-offenders, and with sustainability at its heart.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Alex is reinventing traditional catering, transforming lives in the process  Be inspired by the power of entrepreneurship and Alex’s unwavering sense of adventur

Feb 12, 2024 • 1:09:01

Stuart Trevor, founder of All Saints & Stuart Trevor, on changing the world through sustainable fashion

Stuart Trevor, founder of All Saints & Stuart Trevor, on changing the world through sustainable fashion

Stuart Trevor has an unwavering creative vision. When he was just 19, he was the first buyer and designer at Reiss. After founding All Saints and growing it into a household brand, he wanted to help tackle the sustainability crisis in fashion. How? By launching a clothing company that doesn’t produce any clothes… WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn about Stuart’s inspiring mission — one that extends far beyond the clothing racks Discover his commitment to innovation, passion for su

Feb 5, 2024 • 1:20:05

Bryony Gordon, journalist and author, on the power of vulnerability

Bryony Gordon, journalist and author, on the power of vulnerability

A passionate advocate of self-acceptance, Bryony bravely challenges societal norms — her authenticity empowering women along the way. Bryony’s courage (and humour) in baring her soul is inspiring, as she shares her lifelong quest to shine a bright light on shame as a powerful way to dissolve it.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear Bryony’s honest and touching words on how mental health, and society's attitude to women, have shaped her  Feel inspired by Bryony’s journey to embrace her

Jan 29, 2024 • 1:12:40

Ruby Hammer MBE, beauty entrepreneur, on the beauty of embracing ageing and who we are

Ruby Hammer MBE, beauty entrepreneur, on the beauty of embracing ageing and who we are

Ruby Hammer has been rewriting the beauty narrative for over three decades and her story is one of utter authenticity. In an industry obsessed with youth, Ruby talks about embracing ageing, the power this gives us and how to do it. It’s a celebration of the beauty found in every stage of life. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Far beyond makeup, this is a conversation about the power of knowing ourselves deeply Hear how, through embracing diversity and inclusivity, Ruby set a precedent for i

Jan 22, 2024 • 1:08:07

Jools Oliver, children’s clothing designer, on finding happiness in everyday moments

Jools Oliver, children’s clothing designer, on finding happiness in everyday moments

For Jools Oliver, happiness is most deeply rooted in her family values and home is definitely where her heart is. This is a conversation that focuses on what’s important in life, the relationships we nurture, the environment we create and the joy that we can take from everyday moments. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll rediscover how cherishing the small moments can help when juggling personal aspirations and a busy family life Hear more about how Jools approaches ageing and embraces e

Jan 15, 2024 • 55:45

Holly’s Christmas Special 2023, on the incredible power of words

Holly’s Christmas Special 2023, on the incredible power of words

We have delved into the treasure trove of episodes of 2023, to bring you the most powerful words shared, the golden advice given and a healthy dose of heartfelt inspiration. For a moment of reflection, or renewed energy for the year ahead — there is a lightbulb moment here waiting for everyone.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE From Rio Ferdinand OBE, to Karen Millen OBE, the incredible guests on this series shared their captivating journeys — each unique but all with extraordinary lessons

Dec 18, 2023 • 49:48

Mike & Alison Battle, Founders of LaplandUK, on honouring the magic of childhood

Mike & Alison Battle, Founders of LaplandUK, on honouring the magic of childhood

When Mike and Alison Battle couldn’t find a magical Christmas experience for their own children, they decided to create one themselves. Their journey from primary school teacher and hedge fund manager to Mr and Mrs Lapland is nothing short of remarkable, and what’s at the heart of it? Sheer creativity.  WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how Mike and Alison’s life mission is to preserve the wonder of childhood and the magic of storytelling Discover how they took the business from admi

Dec 11, 2023 • 1:20:35

Patrick Grant, Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur, on stitching communities together through fashion

Patrick Grant, Fashion Designer and Entrepreneur, on stitching communities together through fashion

With a love of clothing from an early age, fashion has always been part of Patrick’s DNA and the golden thread throughout his life. Yet his destiny wasn’t just about fashion, but to fulfil a mission to bring communities together, preserve the legacy of craftsmanship and champion the emotional connection we all share with handcrafted items. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll learn what drove Patrick to become such a passionate advocate for carefully handcrafted fashion Hear his belief that

Dec 4, 2023 • 1:15:04

Jeanette Aurdal on finding success being who you were always meant to be

Jeanette Aurdal on finding success being who you were always meant to be

Jeanette Aurdal Founder of The Oak & Rope Company On finding success being who you were always meant to be  Want to know how Jeanette Aurdal made the transition from being a passionate hobbyist to building a thriving brand, celebrated for its handcrafted creations? Jeanette shares how a fire that reduced her business to ashes was both her darkest moment and greatest springboard — helping her evolve into exactly who she was meant to be. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Find out how someti

Nov 27, 2023 • 1:05:17

Vanita Parti MBE on beauty, brows and breaking barriers

Vanita Parti MBE on beauty, brows and breaking barriers

Inspired by her Indian heritage, Vanita founded her business after noticing a gap in the market for convenient, quality brow services. In doing so, she not only brought an ancient beauty technique to the 21st century, but also disrupted a whole industry. Hear how she’s ‘raised eyebrows’… WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Hear how Vanita’s heritage, the influence of London and her creative centre, all merged to create Blink Brow Bar Gain insight into using life’s toughest moments as a source for

Nov 20, 2023 • 1:06:31

Henry Fraser, Mouth Artist, Author & Speaker, on the remarkable power of the human spirit

Henry Fraser, Mouth Artist, Author & Speaker, on the remarkable power of the human spirit

At just 17 years old, Henry had a serious diving accident which left him paralysed from the neck down. Finding himself trapped between a past he no longer recognised and a future he couldn't imagine, Henry shares how he found the mental resilience to overcome the darkest of times, to discover a life filled with light. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Discover how it was possible for Henry to find not just happiness, but gratitude when everything he thought was going to be, no longer was Hear h

Nov 15, 2023 • 58:10

Joanna Jensen, founder of Childs Farm, on building a brand from a mother’s love

Joanna Jensen, founder of Childs Farm, on building a brand from a mother’s love

Joanna Jensen launched Childs Farm fuelled by a wish to help her daughters’ eczema-prone skin. Her story is one of entrepreneurship, determination and the strength of a mother’s love. From agonising challenges such as divorce, losing her home and confronting illness, to achieving incredible success, Joanna’s journey is remarkable. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll hear how, through trusting the spark of an idea to help her daughters, Joanna found her life’s purpose Discover how her belie

Nov 6, 2023 • 1:12:23

Jane Shepherdson CBE, fashion pioneer, on using instinct to take Whistles and Topshop to the top

Jane Shepherdson CBE, fashion pioneer, on using instinct to take Whistles and Topshop to the top

Hailed as a retail genius, credited with transforming Topshop into a global fashion phenomenon and working wonders at Whistles, Jane began her career at the bottom of the ladder and honed her craft from the ground up with grit and creativity. Here, she shares how, in a world driven by data, instinct has been her guiding light. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Discover the power of being emotionally connected and trusting your intuition. Hear how Jane was labelled a ‘difficult woman’ for having

Oct 30, 2023 • 1:05:18

Meredithe Stuart-Smith on crafting the magical world of Meri Meri

Meredithe Stuart-Smith on crafting the magical world of Meri Meri

Meredithe shares her journey from being a one-woman operation at the kitchen table to building an eternally joyful, internationally recognised, party accessories brand. Discover how, with ‘team’ at the heart of everything and a belief that imagination equals freedom, she retains the essence of what makes Meri Meri special. WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE You’ll be inspired by a story of eternal optimism, determination and resilience. Hear the wisdom of a passionate entrepreneur, using the p

Oct 23, 2023 • 1:08:36

Karen Millen OBE on building a fashion empire from £100

Karen Millen OBE on building a fashion empire from £100

Karen Millen OBE started her iconic brand with £100 and 100 metres of cotton. Hear how she built and sold a thriving fashion empire against the odds — before being declared bankrupt and getting divorced. How did she learn to embrace her future once again and do what she loves? Find out here… WHY YOU WILL ENJOY THIS EPISODE Learn about getting comfortable with embracing failure and benefiting from its teachings.  Discover how it’s never too late to listen to your inner voice and follow your dr

Oct 16, 2023 • 1:10:48

Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie, on how to navigate the new beauty landscape

Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie, on how to navigate the new beauty landscape

In this very special episode Holly is thrilled to sit down for a second time with Marcia Kilgore, the visionary founder of Beauty Pie, Soap & Glory, FitFlop and more, to share her inside knowledge on the real beauty industry and how it has changed in recent years. Recognising that there is a new generation of knowledgeable and savvy customers looking to shop with brands whose values are rooted in transparency and integrity, Marcia discusses the revealing report she’s commissioned that explo

Jun 26, 2023 • 1:06:15

Rebuilding your body, mind and life after cancer, with Rosamund Dean, journalist, author and speaker

Rebuilding your body, mind and life after cancer, with Rosamund Dean, journalist, author and speaker

“After breast cancer, you can’t get the old you back, not really. BUT you can build a new version of yourself; wiser, stronger, less fearful, more joyful, more aware, more compassionate and with a greater sense of purpose.” These are the words of Rosamund Dean, journalist, author, breast cancer survivor and also Holly’s incredible guest this week. Rosamund’s vulnerability in sharing her experiences so openly is helping countless other women to navigate their own path with this disease, and to

Jun 19, 2023 • 1:06:54

Taking on the soft drinks giants, and winning with wonky fruit, with Alex Wright and Jack Scott, founders of DASH Water

Taking on the soft drinks giants, and winning with wonky fruit, with Alex Wright and Jack Scott, founders of DASH Water

Meet Alex Wright and Jack Scott, founders of DASH Water, a soft drinks brand that is making a difference, one wonky lemon and one curly cucumber at a time. This episode is packed full of insights from two entrepreneurs who are on a mission to disrupt an industry and make an impact.  Growing up with farming backgrounds, both Alex and Jack saw first-hand the monumental waste of bruised and misshapen fruit and vegetables. Believing they could do things differently, they set about infusing their sp

Jun 12, 2023 • 1:07:02

The new meaning of ‘United’ with Rio Ferdinand OBE, sportsman, broadcaster and campaigner

The new meaning of ‘United’ with Rio Ferdinand OBE, sportsman, broadcaster and campaigner

When you’re a footballing legend how can you use your platform as a force for good?  That’s the conversation shared between Holly and Rio in this week's fascinating episode. Humble, honest and inspiring, Rio is renowned as one of our most beloved sportsmen but in more recent years Rio has turned his talents to breaking down taboos and campaigning for positive social change. Rio talks openly about the experiences in life that have shaped him, from experiencing racism from childhood to now, his

Jun 5, 2023 • 1:10:51

The transformative power of pursuing your passion, with Kitty and Al Tait, founders of Kitty’s Kits, The Orange Bakery and Breaducation

The transformative power of pursuing your passion, with Kitty and Al Tait, founders of Kitty’s Kits, The Orange Bakery and Breaducation

“I didn’t know how to function any more. And then, one day, I watched my dad make a really simple overnight bread, mixing flour, salt and yeast in a bowl. Watching something so simple transform into something so magical made me feel safe.” Meet Kitty Tait and Al Tait, the daughter and father duo who are exceptional bakers with an even more exceptional story.  At just 14, Kitty struggled with anxiety and depression which became so acute, she left school. Encouraged by her father, she discovered

May 30, 2023 • 1:06:24

Turning the page on a traumatic past, with DJ Fat Tony, DJ, author and artist

Turning the page on a traumatic past, with DJ Fat Tony, DJ, author and artist

“I was homeless, I had no teeth and I was dying.” These are the words of DJ Fat Tony, world famous DJ, artist and author of the candid memoir, I Don't Take Requests. Tony grew up on a council estate in Battersea and his hedonistic lifestyle, and rise to fame, made him the DJ of choice for a generation of superstars - from the Beckhams to Elton John. After struggling with a decades-long addiction to drugs and alcohol, Tony finally hit rock bottom and chose a life of sobriety in 2006, then usin

May 22, 2023 • 1:04:10

Having the courage to test life’s limits and learn, with Tanya Sarne OBE, founder of Ghost

Having the courage to test life’s limits and learn, with Tanya Sarne OBE, founder of Ghost

If anybody embodies the spirit of a certain era of British fashion, it is Tanya Sarne OBE, founder of the iconic fashion label, Ghost. In this episode, Tanya shares her extraordinary life story, from her humble beginnings as a child born in the war to refugee parents, to travelling all over the world. Her journey had many remarkable moments along the way — moments she generously shares openly from the heart, with no holds barred. Tanya speaks about her time spent struggling as a single mum unt

May 15, 2023 • 1:03:07

Using your passion to mould your future, with Keith Brymer Jones, British designer, master potter, author and Great Pottery Throw Down judge

Using your passion to mould your future, with Keith Brymer Jones, British designer, master potter, author and Great Pottery Throw Down judge

“I get emotional because this is a craft I love. It is my life.” These are the words of Keith Brymer Jones, master ceramicist, design expert, author and self-proclaimed emotional judge on The Great Pottery Throw Down. A dyslexic child, Keith found an affinity with clay, ultimately turning his academic struggles into his best-selling and iconic Word Range of ceramics. Now, with over three decades of knowledge and experience under his belt, Keith shares his love of the craft and his thoughts on

May 9, 2023 • 1:02:08

Building a joyful British brand, with Cath Kidston Padgham MBE, founder of Cath Kidston

Building a joyful British brand, with Cath Kidston Padgham MBE, founder of Cath Kidston

How can you take your passions and turn them into a brand that touches the hearts of thousands nationwide? Cath Kidston Padgham MBE built a thriving British business by embracing her love of textiles, interiors and print, and following her heart. But how? Reflecting on the pivotal moments that led her to success, Cath and Holly explore the breathtaking highs Cath experienced, as well as the heartbreaking loss and grief that have punctuated her journey so far — and also sharpened her senses, bui

May 2, 2023 • 55:08

Using a life changing moment to change lives, with Sophie Morgan, TV presenter, author, inclusive travel expert and disability campaigner

Using a life changing moment to change lives, with Sophie Morgan, TV presenter, author, inclusive travel expert and disability campaigner

As one of the most inspiring stories you'll ever hear, this is a conversation that really will make you appreciate the beauty of life.  This week, Holly speaks with TV presenter, author and disability activist Sophie Morgan to find out more of what we can achieve when we refuse to let what happens to us in life — or other people — define us. Paralysed in a car crash when she was just eighteen years old, Sophie has faced gruelling personal challenges, campaigned relentlessly to dispel the myths

Apr 24, 2023 • 1:04:42

The benefits of growing older and wiser, with Johnnie Boden CBE, founder of Boden

The benefits of growing older and wiser, with Johnnie Boden CBE, founder of Boden

How do you evolve with your brand as a founder?  For over three decades Boden has been serious about style that makes you smile, and this week, Holly sits down with Johnnie Boden CBE to revisit his story since they first met in 2018.  Having weathered recessions, Brexit, Covid and now a cost of living crisis, Boden has established itself as a quintessentially British brand, that is also taking the US market by storm.  Johnnie shares his secrets of how he has kept Boden on track, how he defied

Mar 20, 2023 • 58:12

A tribute to Jacqueline Gold CBE

A tribute to Jacqueline Gold CBE

Jacqueline Gold CBE, Chief Executive of Ann Summers, made it her life mission to empower women both in the boardroom but also in the bedroom, and unashamedly too. She tackled taboos, redefined an entire industry and made a lasting impact on the next generation of women in business.  As Jacqueline once said, “As women, we should boldly lift our heads above the parapet and celebrate our own successes”.  Jacqueline’s Conversation of Inspiration is one that Holly was truly honoured to hear in 2020

Mar 17, 2023 • 53:30

Leading a chocolate revolution, with Chantal Coady OBE, founder of The Chocolate Detective

Leading a chocolate revolution, with Chantal Coady OBE, founder of The Chocolate Detective

It’s a tough job but someone has to do it. Chantal Coady OBE – AKA The Chocolate Detective — is on a mission to help you uncover the finest and most ethical chocolate around. Fuelled by a lifelong love of all things chocolate, Chantal’s business journey began at just 23, opening Rococo on the Kings Road, and stocking in the likes of Liberty, Heals and British Airways. However, there have also been extreme lows, after a terrible experience saw her lose her first business in 2019.  Now returning

Mar 13, 2023 • 1:09:50

How women can thrive through all seasons, with Baroness Ruth Rogers CBE, co-founder of The River Cafe

How women can thrive through all seasons, with Baroness Ruth Rogers CBE, co-founder of The River Cafe

As women, how on earth is it possible to build a business and grow with it over decades — whilst raising a family, weathering the storms of life and remaining inspired, motivated and engaged throughout? Baroness Ruth Rogers CBE is someone who has done just that and today, her pioneering Michelin starred restaurant The River Cafe remains one of the most in-demand culinary institutions in London, 36 years after she led a food revolution. In this episode, Ruth shares stories of discovering her pa

Mar 6, 2023 • 47:53

Making stuff better and making better stuff, with Mark Shayler, Thinker, Doer, Creator, Speaker and Author

Making stuff better and making better stuff, with Mark Shayler, Thinker, Doer, Creator, Speaker and Author

Do you want to learn how to do, think and be better – for our planet and in life itself?  You are not alone. And it’s not just us in a personal capacity, either. Mark Shayler — thinker, doer, creator, speaker and author — helps brands too. He shows how big companies can think like small ones and small companies can think like big ones, to make sure they stand apart, remain relevant in our society and most importantly, retain their creative magic.  An expert in helping businesses innovate and p

Feb 27, 2023 • 1:19:31

Rankin (Photographer, Director and Humanitarian), on being so much more than your labels

Rankin (Photographer, Director and Humanitarian), on being so much more than your labels

What does it mean to be a cultural provocateur? When your mission is to awaken, to communicate, to reveal truth and even to provoke action — all through the art of photography?  In this exclusive interview, Holly speaks to Rankin, one of the most influential photographers of our time, renowned for his ability to capture the essence and truth of his subjects rather than simply taking their pictures. And that’s not all… Having worked with everyone from the Queen of England to the Queen of Pop, R

Feb 20, 2023 • 1:30:13

Banishing the taboos surrounding womanhood, with Michelle Kennedy, founder and CEO of Peanut

Banishing the taboos surrounding womanhood, with Michelle Kennedy, founder and CEO of Peanut

Have you ever been in need of a safe space to share your most personal questions or concerns as a woman and just not known where to turn? If so, it’s an experience shared by many — especially the 2.5 million people who’ve joined Peanut; the groundbreaking app set up by Michelle Kennedy to ensure that no woman ever has to navigate womanhood alone.  Whether it’s to connect, form friendships or just to have really open conversations with other women about the complicated areas of fertility, menop

Feb 13, 2023 • 1:16:24

Changing the game for mental health, with Danny Gray, founder of War Paint and JAAQ

Changing the game for mental health, with Danny Gray, founder of War Paint and JAAQ

Want to meet the man who’s revolutionising the mental health movement?  With our mental health care system in crisis and people struggling more than ever before, Danny Gray (founder of men’s makeup brand War Paint), saw a need for change. So he launched a revolutionary mental health platform called JAAQ. Driven by his own learned experiences as a teenage victim of bullying, and having been diagnosed with Body Dysmorphic Disorder himself, Danny is on a mission to remove the stigma around male m

Feb 6, 2023 • 1:01:32

The woman standing up to the social media giants...and winning, with Sue Fennessy, founder and CEO of WeAre8

The woman standing up to the social media giants...and winning, with Sue Fennessy, founder and CEO of WeAre8

For most, living in a world where social media is only a positive and empowering place is nothing but a dream. Yet this week Sue Fennessy, founder and CEO of WeAre8, is here to share how she is making it a reality.  Describing this venture as her ‘civic duty’, Sue has created a social media app that not only has zero tolerance for hate, but that could also generate millions of pounds shared across charities, creatives and users each and every month in the process. How? Simply by offering users

Jan 30, 2023 • 1:21:46

Overcoming trauma and unlocking pure happiness, with Goldie MBE, DJ, artist and actor

Overcoming trauma and unlocking pure happiness, with Goldie MBE, DJ, artist and actor

Want to know how Goldie MBE became one of the most compelling artists of our time? Well look no further as this week, this maverick’s story will leave you captivated, surprised and completely inspired.  You might know him for his pioneering drum and bass music in the 90s, his gold teeth, or his acting career, but in this exclusive interview, Goldie shares how he defied the odds, having experienced abuse, heartbreak and battling addiction in his early years, to now seeing beauty in every waking

Jan 23, 2023 • 1:05:40

Creating a female ecosystem, with Sharmadean Reid MBE, founder of The Stack World

Creating a female ecosystem, with Sharmadean Reid MBE, founder of The Stack World

This week Holly speaks with Sharmadean Reid MBE, founder of The Stack World, a revolutionary media platform that enables mission-driven women to make meaningful connections and move the needle on gender equality.   A serial entrepreneur and mother, Sharmadean is known for her impact on culture and women’s empowerment with the aim of helping women achieve a higher purpose and a stronger economic status.  In this conversation Sharmadean shares the impact her own culture and upbringing had on her

Jan 16, 2023 • 1:05:24

Nine uniquely beautiful roads to success - Holly’s round-up of Series 15

Nine uniquely beautiful roads to success - Holly’s round-up of Series 15

At the end of each podcast series, Holly likes to take a moment out of the hustle and bustle of small business life, to sit and reflect on the special conversations she’s been lucky enough to have.  So if you haven’t yet listened to every episode this season, or if you loved them all so much that you want to recall key moments – settle down with a cup of tea and get ready to take notes from some of the most successful founders on the planet.  In this series, each of Holly’s guests have shared

Nov 28, 2022 • 38:03

Turning grey into technicolour, through the magic of Christmas, with Polar Post’s founder, Charlotte Wood

Turning grey into technicolour, through the magic of Christmas, with Polar Post’s founder, Charlotte Wood

In this captivating conversation, Charlotte Wood, founder of the magical Polar Post, shares her wisdom on building a brand that truly embodies kindness, nostalgia and the spirit of Christmas. With the help of the elves, Charlotte’s founding mission was to revive the lost art of calligraphy for a new generation and create remarkable works of art in the form of letters, so that every child can feel as though Father Christmas is speaking directly to them.  Since founding her enchanting business,

Nov 21, 2022 • 1:13:05

Lightbulb Moment 34: Why you should let lightbulb moments shape your life, with the founder of Abel & Cole, Keith Abel

Lightbulb Moment 34: Why you should let lightbulb moments shape your life, with the founder of Abel & Cole, Keith Abel

How do you know what business to start or how to scale it? This episode marks Holly’s very last lightbulb moment of the series, and so she wanted to share with you the answers to the questions she so often gets asked. Taken from her conversation with Keith Abel, founder of Abel & Cole, Holly reflects on the moment that Keith recognised he had a golden opportunity when selling his organic potatoes, which was the pivotal moment that changed his life forever. When Keith shared this with Holl

Nov 17, 2022 • 12:06

A business founded from grit and determination, with Nicola Elliott, founder of Neom Organics

A business founded from grit and determination, with Nicola Elliott, founder of Neom Organics

How do you build a disruptive brand in a new sector, whilst keeping it accessible for all? In this episode, Nicola Elliot shares her lessons as she recounts her story building the cult status, well-being brand Neom Organics. Growing up in Yorkshire, a self declared naughty child, Nicola carved out a glittering career in advertising in her twenties before burn out forced her to refocus her energies in a different direction. Nicola recounts the early days of Neom, the risks, the setbacks, and c

Nov 14, 2022 • 1:10:41

Lightbulb Moment 33: Liberating yourself from your past, with Dr. Edith Eger, Holocaust survivor, psychologist and author

Lightbulb Moment 33: Liberating yourself from your past, with Dr. Edith Eger, Holocaust survivor, psychologist and author

This might just be the most humbling lightbulb moment Holly has had this whole series. In just 15 minutes, you can learn the life-changing skill of freeing yourself from your past and controlling your present — allowing you to achieve anything you put your mind to. Letting the past distract her is a battle that Holly has faced herself over the years, especially when recalling certain times at notonthehighstreet. But it wasn’t until she met with the formidable Dr. Edith Eger, that she suddenly r

Nov 10, 2022 • 11:00

From small town girl to organic retail pioneer, with Renée Elliott, founder of Planet Organic, and co-founder of Beluga Bean

From small town girl to organic retail pioneer, with Renée Elliott, founder of Planet Organic, and co-founder of Beluga Bean

Renée Elliott had no real inkling of what her purpose was, until walking down the aisle of a health food store in Boston. Little did she know that this moment would ignite her dream, and lead to her opening the first organic supermarket in the UK in 1995 — Planet Organic.  With no prior experience but a determination to build a business that would make a difference to people's lives, Renée learnt ‘on the job’ when she had an idea to bring organically grown food to the mainstream shopper.  Howe

Nov 7, 2022 • 1:11:02

Lightbulb Moment 32: Anya Hindmarch CBE shares the fine art of finding beauty in everything

Lightbulb Moment 32: Anya Hindmarch CBE shares the fine art of finding beauty in everything

Imagine how happy you could be if you were able to find the beauty in everything. Want to learn the art in less than 15 minutes? Taken from her conversation with Anya Hindmarch CBE, one of Holly’s ultimate female business icons, Holly recalls Anya explaining the story of designing her much loved crisp packet handbags, and how you really can make everyday ‘ordinary’ items extraordinary.  Hearing Anya tell this tale ignited a lightbulb moment for Holly, as it took her back to when she realised t

Nov 3, 2022 • 11:43

The overnight success that took over a decade to build, with Marisa Hordern, founder of Missoma

The overnight success that took over a decade to build, with Marisa Hordern, founder of Missoma

This week Holly speaks with Marisa Hordern, founder of London based jewellery brand, Missoma. Born at the kitchen table, Missoma started as a side hustle. Now, after over a decade of incredible hard work and grit, Missoma is an iconic jewellery brand beloved by millennials and A listers alike. Often referred to as an overnight success, Marisa sheds light on this misconception, and the first seven years she battled through to get her business off the ground, where at her lowest point, she consi

Oct 31, 2022 • 1:09:02

Lightbulb Moment 31: How to solve your hardest problems with Lord John Bird MBE, founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Big Issue

Lightbulb Moment 31: How to solve your hardest problems with Lord John Bird MBE, founder and Editor-in-Chief of The Big Issue

This week, Holly shares why business is not just a one way road to success, but also reveals the key to overcoming the darkest, most difficult times that so many founders face by mastering the art of problem solving.  When Holly spoke with Lord John Bird, she was in total awe of his knowledge, his experience, and his overwhelming confidence in his vision – but what has really stayed with her is how he turned his business around, when The Big Issue was in terrible financial trouble and just mont

Oct 27, 2022 • 19:14

Choosing love and changing the world, with Josie Naughton, founder of Choose Love

Choosing love and changing the world, with Josie Naughton, founder of Choose Love

“We can all do something” are the words of Josie Naughton, who is at the centre of the pioneering humanitarian aid movement, Choose Love. It’s a charity that promotes compassion, people helping people, and true generosity of heart.  When Josie and her friends saw the refugee crisis unfolding in Calais in 2015 they decided to take action by raising £1,000 and organising a van load of donations to be delivered to Calais. With no former charity experience, a lack of fundraising budgets or highly p

Oct 24, 2022 • 1:14:28

Lightbulb Moment 30: Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty, on the advice she wishes she’d heard sooner

Lightbulb Moment 30: Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty, on the advice she wishes she’d heard sooner

In our fast paced world, we can be so focussed on the future, that we very rarely take time to reflect on the past. But this week, Holly has a task for you that is going to help you look back, and recognise just how far you’ve come.  Taken from her conversation with the beauty icon that is Bobbi Brown, this week’s lightbulb moment is inspired by Bobbi’s letter to her younger self, which Holly was lucky enough to witness her read. In Bobbi’s letter, she shares exactly what she wished she’d known

Oct 20, 2022 • 10:21

Taking control of your career, without climbing the ladder, with Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis, founders of Amazing If

Taking control of your career, without climbing the ladder, with Helen Tupper and Sarah Ellis, founders of Amazing If

Have you ever wondered how you can ditch the career ladder and find an alternative route to success, where progression doesn’t just depend on promotion? Have you asked yourself, what am I good at? What do I stand for? What motivates and drives me? This week Holly speaks with Helen and Sarah, co-founders of Amazing If, an award-winning career development company with a twist.  Champions of the Squiggly Career, Helen and Sarah are at the forefront of a fundamental shift that’s happening in the w

Oct 17, 2022 • 1:26:54

Lightbulb Moment 29: The ultimate equation for success, with Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wine

Lightbulb Moment 29: The ultimate equation for success, with Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wine

When it comes to business, we’re taught from the very first day that profit is the core measurement for success. But what if Holly, Rowan Gormley and even Richard Branson told you you were wrong? When Holly met with Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wine, she was completely captivated by not only his fascinating business journey but also his wisdom. Rowan was headhunted personally by Sir Richard Branson, and shares with Holly, the key equation that he learnt from Richard

Oct 13, 2022 • 9:43

Dishoom's Co-Founder Shamil Thakrar, on building a soulful, poetic business

Dishoom's Co-Founder Shamil Thakrar, on building a soulful, poetic business

This week, Holly was lucky enough to sit down with Shamil Thakrar, over a cup of Dishoom’s freshly brewed chai tea, and learnt what’s really at the heart of his business. At the very beginning, Shamil and his co-founders set out with the goal of bringing the beauty of the Irani cafés they so loved in Bombay to the UK. Now with nine restaurants across the country – boy did they do just that. Coming from a business school and consultancy background, in his younger years, Shamil was far from the

Oct 10, 2022 • 1:09:36

Lightbulb Moment 28: How to overcome self doubt, with founder and creator, Emma Bridgewater

Lightbulb Moment 28: How to overcome self doubt, with founder and creator, Emma Bridgewater

Are you ready to ditch your self doubt, in just 10 minutes? During Holly’s unforgettable conversation with the iconic Emma Bridgewater, they spoke in depth about the power of visualising your dreams, so much so that they become a reality – which sparked a real lightbulb moment for Holly. Holly realised that so many of us, especially women, are limited by our aspirations, and only by believing in them with all your heart, will you achieve them. And so, in this episode Holly shares her secret to

Oct 6, 2022 • 10:32

Creating an education revolution, with Kate Robinson, Co-Founder of The Creative Revolution, Chief Legacy Officer of We Imagine If, and Co-Director of Never Grey

Creating an education revolution, with Kate Robinson, Co-Founder of The Creative Revolution, Chief Legacy Officer of We Imagine If, and Co-Director of Never Grey

Imagine if… creativity was as important as literacy, maths or science? What could we, as a species, be capable of achieving if we prioritised it and gave it the right conditions to flourish? These are questions posed by the late great Sir Ken Robinson. His daughter and closest collaborator Kate Robinson now continues his work which she describes as being a ‘love letter to human potential’ and Holly was lucky enough to meet with her recently.  In this interview, Kate shares her wisdom on how we

Oct 3, 2022 • 1:11:04

Lightbulb Moment 27: Why we should all get comfortable with the chaos of creativity, with Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH and The Garage Soho

Lightbulb Moment 27: Why we should all get comfortable with the chaos of creativity, with Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH and The Garage Soho

As we fall into our career paths and adult life, it can be so easy to assume that we’re just not creative… but what if Holly told you, you really are? You see, when Holly met with Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH and The Garage Soho, he was adamant that every single person on this earth is creative, it’s just down to you to channel that creative energy. Sir John also highlighted that creativity is chaos, and that’s okay – and this is the advice that has really changed Holly’s life.  This week,

Sep 29, 2022 • 12:30

From surviving, to thriving with Trinny Woodall, founder of Trinny London

From surviving, to thriving with Trinny Woodall, founder of Trinny London

Holly’s guest this week is the vivacious, captivating and eminently stylish Trinny Woodall, who is likely to truly surprise you in more ways than one. You may know Trinny from her glittering TV career, her bestselling books or her inspired makeup brand Trinny London, but what lies underneath the energetic Instagram LIVES and YouTube tutorials? A sheer will to survive. With a career spanning more than three decades, Trinny’s story is a fascinating one involving many twists and turns. In this int

Sep 26, 2022 • 1:22:09

Lightbulb Moment 26: Why having a dream can be your anchor for life, with Dame Kelly Holmes, DBE

Lightbulb Moment 26: Why having a dream can be your anchor for life, with Dame Kelly Holmes, DBE

Dedicating oneself to a lifelong dream can be perceived by many as being a risk. Some will consider such devotion to cause stress, pressure and be detrimental to your mental health. But have you ever recognised that having such strong aspirations could actually be your saviour? Thinking back to when she heard Dame Kelly Holmes DBE’s Conversation of Inspiration, Holly explores how having such a desire for success can be the key to your happiness.  Dame Kelly’s story was not an easy one to hear

Sep 22, 2022 • 9:01

Lightbulb Moment 25: Why your values should come above all else, with with Dave Buonaguidi, artist and founder of Karmarama & St Lukes

Lightbulb Moment 25: Why your values should come above all else, with with Dave Buonaguidi, artist and founder of Karmarama & St Lukes

Have you ever sat down and thought about your values? Have you ever asked yourself what you truly believe in? In less than 15 minutes, learn from Holly why she thinks that recognising and staying true to these values is so integral to living a happy and fulfilled life.  Inspired by her conversation with artist Dave Buonaguidi, Holly shares the lightbulb moment which clicked when she spoke with Dave about his business journey, and how the direction of his life changed dramatically because of th

Sep 15, 2022 • 11:40

Lightbulb Moment 24: Why success is never losing sight of your entrepreneurial roots, with Wilfred Emmanuel Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer

Lightbulb Moment 24: Why success is never losing sight of your entrepreneurial roots, with Wilfred Emmanuel Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer

Do you truly know what your role is in life?  There are so many hats to be worn as a founder, that your key responsibilities can often become muddied in the everyday running of a business. However, this week, Holly is here to share what your ultimate priority should be as an entrepreneur, and why you should never ever lose sight of this. Holly re-evaluated the whole concept of being a business owner when she met with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, politician and founder of The Black Farmer, who a

Sep 8, 2022 • 14:10

Lightbulb Moment 23: Recognising the beauty of keeping things simple, with Jo Tutchener-Sharp, founder of Scamp & Dude

Lightbulb Moment 23: Recognising the beauty of keeping things simple, with Jo Tutchener-Sharp, founder of Scamp & Dude

If someone said that your life or business was simple, would you take offence? Well Holly did when founding notonthehighstreet. However, it wasn’t until this lightbulb moment struck, that she recognised it wasn’t an insult.  Holly suddenly understood the beauty in keeping things simple when speaking with Jo Tutchener Sharp, founder of Scamp and Dude, who coined her straightforward yet revolutionary business idea in a hospital bed, recovering from life-saving surgery.  This week, Holly explains

Sep 1, 2022 • 10:01

 Lightbulb Moment 22: Why exam results don’t determine your success, with founder of The Pig Hotels, Robin Hutson OBE

Lightbulb Moment 22: Why exam results don’t determine your success, with founder of The Pig Hotels, Robin Hutson OBE

The lead up to receiving exam results really can be one of the most anxious times in our lives, and often it's the same for our children — but why?  In just ten minutes, hear Holly’s own experiences of exam failure and get some real perspective on why school education is only a chapter in our lives. This week, Holly gets thinking about the many opportunities out there for each and every one of us depending on our strengths and abilities, and it might just help you, too.  Taken from her conve

Jul 28, 2022 • 11:15

Lightbulb Moment 21: Fearne Cotton, founder of The Happy Place, on finding your parenthood groove

Lightbulb Moment 21: Fearne Cotton, founder of The Happy Place, on finding your parenthood groove

In just 15 minutes, hear Fearne and Holly’s experiences of the highs and lows of parenting, and how they both manage the family juggle throughout the most hectic of times, and in very different ways… In busy periods like the summer holidays, it’s so easy to find that making time for yourself has once again fallen to the bottom of your ‘to do’ list isn’t it?  Since becoming a parent herself, Holly has always had a business baby to care for as well as her son Harry – and so, this week, Holly i

Jul 21, 2022 • 14:58

Using hardship as rocket fuel - Holly’s round-up of Series 14

Using hardship as rocket fuel - Holly’s round-up of Series 14

Every single one of Holly’s guests this series has been inspirational, passionate and holds the treasure that is their own unique story. But what Holly also recognised, is that they have each faced loss, devastation and pain in some way – and yet have somehow managed to rise from the ashes of the truly bleakest of times.  In this episode, Holly reflects on some of the key moments from each of her guest’s stories – some profound, some tear-jerking and some downright funny – and all of them shed

Jul 18, 2022 • 44:31

Lightbulb Moment 20: Overcoming dishonesty and deception to shine again, with Boden's founder, Johnnie Boden

Lightbulb Moment 20: Overcoming dishonesty and deception to shine again, with Boden's founder, Johnnie Boden

After Holly's incredible conversation with Boden's founder Johnnie, Holly reflects on the highs and lows she has faced when it comes to trusting people in business — along with her top recruitment tips — all in less than 10 minutes! When you’re a business founder, hiring people is possibly one of the hardest arts to master isn’t it? They might look like the world’s best on their CV, but something might not sit quite right in your tummy – and that’s fine, but understanding the importance of bui

Jul 14, 2022 • 9:17

From artistic intern to leading visionary of a global brand, Nike’s former CMO and author of Emotion By Design, Greg Hoffman

From artistic intern to leading visionary of a global brand, Nike’s former CMO and author of Emotion By Design, Greg Hoffman

Among the millions of other businesses on our planet, what makes one brand a cut above the rest? Is it the size of the business or the amount of money they have? No. In the words of Author and Nike’s former Chief Marketing Officer, Greg Hoffman, it’s that brand's ability to, “Go way beyond simple observations and assumptions”. And with a brand that connects as deeply as Nike has with millions of customers around the world, this is a rare opportunity to learn from the very best.  In just one co

Jul 11, 2022 • 1:17:52

Lightbulb Moment 19: Why success means so much more than money, with Dame Mary Perkins DBE, co-founder of Specsavers

Lightbulb Moment 19: Why success means so much more than money, with Dame Mary Perkins DBE, co-founder of Specsavers

In just 12 minutes, listen to how you can plan for your brightest future by re-evaluating what success means to you.  Have you ever sat down and thought about what you consider ‘being successful’? Not just based on what we’re taught it means, to make more money or buy a bigger house – but have you been honest with yourself about what makes your heart full after a hard day’s work?  This week, Holly bares all when it comes to recognising what success means to each of us individually. For a lon

Jul 7, 2022 • 12:08

The power of rebellious hope, with Dame Deborah James DBE, founder of Bowelbabe

The power of rebellious hope, with Dame Deborah James DBE, founder of Bowelbabe

In honour of the formidable Dame Deborah James, we are re-releasing this very special podcast episode. Having avidly followed the highs and lows of Deborah’s journey, Holly was honoured to have had the pleasure of speaking with her in 2020, and it’s a memory she will always treasure in her heart.  In this episode, Deborah James, also known as Bowelbabe, joins Holly to talk about the rebellious spirit that would define her journey, from gymnast to Deputy Headteacher, journalist to campaigner

Jul 5, 2022 • 47:03

Why building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint, with Mandy Watkins, Founder and Creative Director of Hush Homewear

Why building a brand is a marathon, not a sprint, with Mandy Watkins, Founder and Creative Director of Hush Homewear

What makes a brand like Hush Homewear stand out from the thousands of fashion and e-commerce businesses out there? Yes it's the quality and style of the clothes, but it's also another key element that makes them truly one-of-a-kind — and that's the brand. If you want to know the secret to building an identity that makes thousands of customers return again and again, and remain loyal to you for life, hear Mandy Watkins' hard won wisdom on the subject... Mandy started her laid back clothing and

Jul 4, 2022 • 1:02:27

Lightbulb Moment 18: Making a living from that thing you love, with Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of LEON

Lightbulb Moment 18: Making a living from that thing you love, with Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of LEON

There’s a saying that if you make a living doing what you love, you’ll never work a day in your life – and this week Holly highlights how this is not only true, but genuinely possible for everyone.  Taken from her conversation with Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of fast food chain LEON, Holly reflects on Henry’s obsession with fast food and how acknowledging this was his key to success.  Sharing the early signs that she remembers of finding her own diamond, Holly recalls how she recognised a

Jun 30, 2022 • 12:11

Finding your true self and helping others do the same, with Jack Guinness, founder of The Queer Bible, writer, model and presenter

Finding your true self and helping others do the same, with Jack Guinness, founder of The Queer Bible, writer, model and presenter

With 2022 seeing the 50th anniversary since the first Pride took place in the UK, there couldn’t be a better time to celebrate the incredible trailblazer that is writer, model, presenter, and founder of The Queer Bible, Jack Guinness.  Fighting for change, acceptance, and kindness within our society, Jack’s conversation offers crucial education about the LGBTQ+ community, and is one that should be heard by all.  A self-confessed ‘queer missionary’, Jack’s journey has been one full of challen

Jun 27, 2022 • 1:08:54

Lightbulb Moment 17: Why it’s never too late to find freedom as a founder, with Caroline Hirons, Skincare expert, Author and YouTuber

Lightbulb Moment 17: Why it’s never too late to find freedom as a founder, with Caroline Hirons, Skincare expert, Author and YouTuber

For women, the world ends at 40 and your dreams drift off into the abyss.  You’ll be pleased to know that the above sentence is NOT by any means true, and instead is an idea, embedded within society with no proof, sense or logic behind it – and Holly is here to break this notion.  This week, Holly recalls her conversation with Skincare Expert, Author and YouTuber Caroline Hirons, who is a living example of why it’s never too late to follow your passion and start your own business, on your ow

Jun 23, 2022 • 14:40

Yeo Valley CEO, Tim Mead, on growing a sustainable future

Yeo Valley CEO, Tim Mead, on growing a sustainable future

A leading expert in the farming industry, Tim Mead CEO of Yeo Valley, delves into a number of crucial topics around responsible farming, environmental consciousness and reveals how farmers can help to reverse the carbon crisis. This is an unmissable conversation that won’t only help our generation, but many to come.  Tim’s family have been farming in Somerset for over 500 years and are known across the country for stocking our shelves with delicious organic milk, cheese and yogurts. However wh

Jun 20, 2022 • 1:08:54

Lightbulb Moment 16: Do you love yourself enough? With Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project

Lightbulb Moment 16: Do you love yourself enough? With Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project

Is it selfish to feel drained by other people's energy? No, and you really need to listen to this episode to hear why… It’s remarkable how as humans, we’re so affected by the energy of others around us isn’t it? Just one person in our presence has the ability to build us up as tall as the Eiffel Tower, or bring us lower than we’ve ever been.  This week, Holly explores why founders and dreamers have a vulnerability that must be protected, and offers advice that has taken her a long time to un

Jun 16, 2022 • 13:08

How we can choose to find light in the darkest of times, with Dr. Edith Eger, Holocaust Survivor, psychologist and author

How we can choose to find light in the darkest of times, with Dr. Edith Eger, Holocaust Survivor, psychologist and author

A story of strength and courage, this remarkable account is full of thought-provoking advice that will quite literally change your life. This conversation is truly going to make you reevaluate not only the way you live, but how you react, think, feel gratitude and express yourself, too.  “If I survive today, tomorrow I will be free.” These are the words of 16-year-old Edith Eger whilst imprisoned in the Nazi death camp, Auschwitz, in World War Two. Now one of the last Holocaust survivors on t

Jun 13, 2022 • 56:10

Lightbulb Moment 15: Using fear to build the future you deserve, with Julie Deane CBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Co

Lightbulb Moment 15: Using fear to build the future you deserve, with Julie Deane CBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Co

It’s been proven that women are far less likely to take risks and follow their dreams than men. As frustrating as that is to hear in our modern society, Holly uses this week’s lightbulb moment, taken from her phenomenal conversation with Julie Deane CBE, to explore the many reasons why we should.  Using her experience, Holly ponders that very small but oh-so-powerful word – FEAR – and how it restricts women from taking that leap of faith. The fear of failure, of taking financial risks, of nega

Jun 9, 2022 • 13:27

Ending homelessness, feeding hope, with Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of The Social Bite

Ending homelessness, feeding hope, with Josh Littlejohn MBE, founder of The Social Bite

How can we solve some of the biggest societal issues we face? In this episode, Josh Littlejohn MBE shares his vision and blueprint for making meaningful change in our world through entrepreneurship. Josh is founder of Social Bite as well as The World’s Big Sleepout, and has always worked hard to make a difference. He had a strong social conscience from a young age, and when a young homeless man came into Josh’s very first Social Bite cafe asking for a job, it sparked an unexpected decade of ch

Jun 6, 2022 • 1:12:27

Charlotte Tilbury MBE on the secret behind her billion dollar beauty empire

Charlotte Tilbury MBE on the secret behind her billion dollar beauty empire

Dare to dream it, dare to believe it and dare to do it! That’s the motto of Charlotte Tilbury MBE — the makeup guru with the Midas touch, a woman trailblazing a makeup revolution and empowering women through the transformative power it brings. As a British female entrepreneur and one of the most influential makeup artists of her generation, Charlotte Tilbury has distinguished herself as being a true creative visionary who has completely disrupted the beauty industry. And although ‘empowerment’

May 30, 2022 • 1:12:48

Lightbulb Moment 14: Levi Roots, founder of Reggae Reggae Sauce on how to find who you truly are

Lightbulb Moment 14: Levi Roots, founder of Reggae Reggae Sauce on how to find who you truly are

How do you know who you truly are? It’s one of life's hardest questions isn’t it, and is a quest that can often only be solved with time and perseverance as we explore life’s path.  This week’s lightbulb moment was sparked by Holly’s live interview with Levi Roots. Renowned for founding Reggae Reggae Sauce, Levi shares his experience of growing up, not truly knowing who he was or what his purpose might be – and reveals how changing his name, changed the direction of his life.  Their conversa

May 26, 2022 • 15:30

From taking baby steps to building a global brand, with Guy Schanschieff MBE, co founder of Bambino Mio

From taking baby steps to building a global brand, with Guy Schanschieff MBE, co founder of Bambino Mio

Little did Guy and Jo Schanschieff know that a chance conversation at the Taj Mahal in 1991 would spark an idea that changed their lives forever. With Bambino Mio now being the largest reusable nappy brand in the world, Guy Schanschieff MBE shares with Holly the highs and lows of their epic adventure to do business for good.  Their mission to eliminate single use plastics from nappy production, before the rise of the internet and the conscious consumer, hasn’t always been easy. However with 90

May 23, 2022 • 1:02:26

Lightbulb Moment 13: Why female intuition in business is where the gold lies, with Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

Lightbulb Moment 13: Why female intuition in business is where the gold lies, with Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

Crushed? Overwhelmed? Scared? The more hardship you go through, the more resilient you become — but also, the more you are able to be open about what you are feeling, the more likely you are to connect with others — and that is what great brands are built on.  It’s what founder of Bliss Spas, Fitflop and now Beauty Pie, Marcia Kilgore has come to believe too, so perhaps it’s little surprise she’s built so many incredible businesses.  Reading a letter to her younger self, Marcia speaks in gre

May 19, 2022 • 12:36

How to take control of your happiness, with Mo Gawdat

How to take control of your happiness, with Mo Gawdat

Mo Gawdat had it all. An illustrious 30 year career in tech, serving as the Chief Business Officer of Google X, all the money he needed and more, and was happily married with two children. However despite his many riches, he never felt completely satisfied. Fascinated by his lack of fulfilment and with his passion for technology, Mo began building an algorithm for happiness.  Then, after the sudden and devastating loss of his son Ali, Mo turned to his calculation for happiness to make it throu

May 16, 2022 • 1:28:00

Lightbulb Moment 12: How to lead, with Will Butler Adams OBE, CEO of Brompton Bikes

Lightbulb Moment 12: How to lead, with Will Butler Adams OBE, CEO of Brompton Bikes

How do you lead a team to success, inspiring every single person and empowering them to deliver their work to the very best of their ability? In this episode, Will Butler Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes shares not only his ethos to leadership, but exactly how to implement it — and it really gets Holly thinking.  Her approach to leadership has changed and developed immensely over her 20 year career. Is 28-year-old Holly who founded notonthehighstreet, the same Holly who now leads the small busin

May 12, 2022 • 15:54

Lightbulb Moment 11: MOBO Awards founder Kanya King CBE on why the greatest gift to anyone starting a business is naivety

Lightbulb Moment 11: MOBO Awards founder Kanya King CBE on why the greatest gift to anyone starting a business is naivety

How do you build a brand that for the first time celebrates an entire genre with no money, no previous experience and just six weeks? What empowers you to pick up the phone and call Sir Tony Blair or Sir Richard Branson? Where on earth do you get the guts to remortgage your home to back your business? Listening to founder of the MOBO Awards, Kanya King CBE, Holly realises that passion and drive can count for more than all the experience in the world when it comes to building a successful brand

May 5, 2022 • 14:58

Lightbulb Moment 10: How all small businesses have a secret super power: emotion, with David Hieatt, Co-Founder of The DO Lectures

Lightbulb Moment 10: How all small businesses have a secret super power: emotion, with David Hieatt, Co-Founder of The DO Lectures

Living in a consumerist society, we are surrounded by so many businesses and brands, yet why do we so rarely feel emotionally connected to one? In this week’s clip, Holly shares why her conversation with David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Hiut Denim, sparked such a lightbulb moment for her when it comes to connecting with customers and how many brands fail at doing so.  Recalling her own brand journeys with notonthehighstreet and now Holly and Co, Holly shares why following

Apr 28, 2022 • 9:53

Lightbulb Moment 9: Ann Summers Chief Executive, Jacqueline Gold CBE, on staying true to your vision

Lightbulb Moment 9: Ann Summers Chief Executive, Jacqueline Gold CBE, on staying true to your vision

Do you want to know how to make the impossible possible? Jacqueline Gold CBE, Chief Executive of Gold Group International, Ann Summers and Knickerbox, is a living, breathing example of an entrepreneur who achieved just that. In her early twenties, Jacqueline set off on her business adventure to revolutionise the way women view, feel and talk about sex, and since then, has disrupted the entire industry.  This week’s Lightbulb Moment is taken from Holly’s conversation with Jacqueline, where sh

Apr 21, 2022 • 10:59

Lightbulb moment 8: Joe Wicks MBE, founder of The Body Coach, on why persevering at your lowest, will lead to success

Lightbulb moment 8: Joe Wicks MBE, founder of The Body Coach, on why persevering at your lowest, will lead to success

A national treasure, pillar of kindness, and grafter through and through; in this week’s Lightbulb Moment, Holly reflects on this particular part of her inspiring conversation with Joe Wicks MBE, founder of The Body Coach.  Renowned for his rebranding of stemmed broccoli to ‘midget trees’ — Joe has revolutionised the health and fitness world, spreading his knowledge, enthusiasm and quirky language style across the world for more than a decade. In this clip, Joe demystifies the common misconc

Apr 14, 2022 • 11:00

Lightbulb moment 7: The power of changing your path to follow your purpose, with Asma Khan, founder of Darjeeling Express

Lightbulb moment 7: The power of changing your path to follow your purpose, with Asma Khan, founder of Darjeeling Express

Established and respected, Asma Khan was climbing a highly impressive career ladder in law, until she chose to address the dark hole she’d been feeling inside — later diagnosed as unfulfillment.  There are so many reasons we find to not take risks, especially when it comes to our jobs aren’t there? Fears around judgement, money and uncertainty hold so many of us back from pursuing our dreams.  Now, founder of the Darjeeling Express and globally renowned chef, Asma explains how she recognised

Apr 7, 2022 • 17:53

Lightbulb Moment 6: Innocent Smoothies' founder Richard Reed CBE on why, when it comes to business, you should never forget to have fun

Lightbulb Moment 6: Innocent Smoothies' founder Richard Reed CBE on why, when it comes to business, you should never forget to have fun

Did you know that we will spend more time at work than anywhere else in our lifetimes? Now imagine spending all that time not laughing, enjoying the process, and just taking it all too seriously. It seems quite pointless if that’s the case doesn’t it? This week’s Lightbulb Moment is taken from Holly’s comical, yet thought provoking conversation with Richard Reed CBE, founder of Innocent Smoothies and Jam Jar Investments.   Whilst drawing on the brilliance of the Innocent brand, Holly shares

Mar 31, 2022 • 14:21

Lightbulb moment 5: How you can rewrite your future using one crucial trait: human spirit, with Lily's Kitchen founder, Henrietta Morrison

Lightbulb moment 5: How you can rewrite your future using one crucial trait: human spirit, with Lily's Kitchen founder, Henrietta Morrison

Warning: this clip discusses the topics of tragedy, war and loss.  When all else is out of our control, what is the one thing that cannot be taken from us? The overwhelming super power that is our human spirit.  Influenced by the devastating war that is currently unfolding before us, this week’s Lightbulb Moment is for anybody who needs a reason not to give up. Holly shares how we all have the ability to rewrite our own stories, and sometimes, even though it might be impossible to fathom in

Mar 24, 2022 • 12:51

 Lightbulb moment 4: Jo Malone CBE (founder of Jo Loves), on fixing the greatest mistake of her life

Lightbulb moment 4: Jo Malone CBE (founder of Jo Loves), on fixing the greatest mistake of her life

Imagine if you could go back and fix what you perceived to be the greatest mistake of your life. Then think how incredible it would feel to find that perhaps it wasn’t a mistake at all.  When Holly talked to the one and only Jo Malone CBE on her Conversation of Inspiration podcast about the devastating error that changed her life — and what she did about it — it wasn’t so much a lightbulb moment that went off as a whole light show.  Despite Jo’s undeniable success, in this short clip, she sh

Mar 17, 2022 • 13:53

Lightbulb moment 3: Be grateful for your mistakes, with Tamara Lohan MBE, founder of Mr & Mrs Smith

Lightbulb moment 3: Be grateful for your mistakes, with Tamara Lohan MBE, founder of Mr & Mrs Smith

Each week, Holly selects a piece of entrepreneurial advice that has stayed with her, from her past episodes of Conversations of Inspiration.  In this week’s lightbulb moment, Tamara Lohan MBE, founder of Mr & Mrs Smith, explains in a letter to her younger self, why you should cherish your mistakes just as much as your achievements, and addresses her fear that as a founder, it’s possible to lose your ‘self’, as your business becomes your identity.  Holly recounts her own experiences with

Mar 10, 2022 • 11:48

Lightbulb moment 2: Leap and the net will appear, with Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic

Lightbulb moment 2: Leap and the net will appear, with Sahar Hashemi, founder of Coffee Republic

Change your mindset in 10 minutes with this week’s lightbulb moment, a life affirming conversation from Holly’s most treasured past episodes of Conversations of Inspiration.  In today’s episode, Sahar Hashemi (founder of Coffee Republic) — the woman who brought the first coffee shops to the UK high street — joins Holly. Trailblazer and champion of women in business, Sahar reveals the personal mantra that set her on the path to success. Holly recounts her own personal moments where she was fo

Mar 3, 2022 • 10:27

Lightbulb moment 1: How to find and follow your ‘North Star’, with Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer

Lightbulb moment 1: How to find and follow your ‘North Star’, with Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer

Each week, Holly selects a particular lightbulb moment from her most treasured episodes of Conversations of Inspiration.  In this clip, Lord Bilimoria — founder of the international brand Cobra Beer — shares his unique philosophy on the importance of finding, following and never losing sight of your ‘North Star’.  What kind of mindset is needed to remain focused, overcome your fears and choose the right path in order to achieve your wildest dreams? Karan’s wisdom is invaluable to those think

Feb 24, 2022 • 7:15

The golden thread throughout successful brands  - Holly’s round-up of Series 13

The golden thread throughout successful brands - Holly’s round-up of Series 13

Whilst each founder is unique, there is a golden thread that unites them all. In this episode, Holly explores what has driven each brand’s success. From triumph through adversity, each founder has faced the highs and lows of life, each experience contributing to their success. Over the next hour, Holly revisits some of the most pivotal moments in each of their lives and how that moment would lead them on to future success. Including conversations with Bobbi Brown, Dr. Willard Wigan MBE, crea

Feb 7, 2022 • 42:37

 From smashing stereotypes to breaking records, with Josh Patterson, Ultra Athlete, Broadcaster & Mental Health Campaigner

From smashing stereotypes to breaking records, with Josh Patterson, Ultra Athlete, Broadcaster & Mental Health Campaigner

This is a conversation that teaches us all what can be achieved when we refuse to let others define us. A tragic accident would set Josh Patterson on a different path and define his purpose for the rest of his life. But as he seeks to make change in the most extraordinary way, what happens when your formative years are captured for the nation to watch and dissect from their sofa?   This week Holly speaks with Josh Patterson, formerly of Made in Chelsea fame and now an ultra-athlete and mental

Jan 31, 2022 • 1:02:39

The magnitude of what can be achieved when you refuse to settle, with Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley CH, Technology Pioneer, Businesswoman & Philanthropist

The magnitude of what can be achieved when you refuse to settle, with Dame Stephanie "Steve" Shirley CH, Technology Pioneer, Businesswoman & Philanthropist

A child refugee, tech pioneer, philanthropist, businesswoman, mother and true trailblazer, Dame Stephanie paved the way for generations of women to come, by using intuition and action to break ideological views of what women are capable of. In her conversation with Holly she shares the breadth of her experiences, struggles and her unrelenting energy for creating positive change. After escaping Nazi Germany at the shockingly young age of five years old, Dame Stephanie Shirley reflects on her chi

Jan 24, 2022 • 54:52

Why being niche is the key to building a brand of the future, with Jens Knoop, founder of Knoops

Why being niche is the key to building a brand of the future, with Jens Knoop, founder of Knoops

Jens Knoops is a man who is obsessed with chocolate. After starting his brilliant artisan hot chocolate business in 2013, Jens’ journey has catapulted him into a world that not only brings him joy everyday but that brings each of his customers a little magic too. Holly talks to Jens about the huge passion he has for his products, the sustainable goals he has for Knoops and his decision to expand the business during the pandemic. It’s a story that is both heartwarming and motivating and shows

Jan 17, 2022 • 59:02

The Man Behind the Model with David Gandy, founder of David Gandy Wellwear

The Man Behind the Model with David Gandy, founder of David Gandy Wellwear

Holly’s guest this week is a fascinating one, David Gandy, a man whose image is synonymous with high fashion and whose face has graced countless magazine covers, billboards and our televisions. Whilst sharing a cup of tea with Holly on her sofa, David delves into the story behind his career, life as a father, and his recent experiences of founding David Gandy Wellwear. Holly soon learns that David, much like the rest of us, tackles imposter syndrome, despite the successful career he has built

Jan 10, 2022 • 1:08:18

Holly’s Christmas Special 2021

Holly’s Christmas Special 2021

It’s that time already - Holly’s Christmas special!  Every festive season, Holly sits down and reflects on all of the wonderfully inspirational conversations she has had with guests throughout the year and it’s her absolute pleasure to take you on this journey with her.  In the last episode of 2021, Holly revisits some of her most favourite guests and anecdotes from throughout the year. From David Hieatt, Jake Humphrey and Bobbi Brown to Anya Hindmarch and John Timpson, each guest shares the

Dec 13, 2021 • 1:01:47

The greatest micro-sculptor with the biggest heart, with Dr Willard Wigan MBE, creator of the world’s smallest sculptures.

The greatest micro-sculptor with the biggest heart, with Dr Willard Wigan MBE, creator of the world’s smallest sculptures.

This week, Holly has one of her most thought provoking and emotional conversations yet, with Dr Willard Wigan MBE, a man famous for creating the world's tiniest and most beautifully crafted micro-sculptures that are invisible to the naked eye.  Growing up in the sixties, with undiagnosed dyslexia and autism, Willard experienced a heart-breakingly difficult childhood as his confidence was crushed at school by a taunting teacher he will never forget. However as Willard’s late mother always said,

Dec 6, 2021 • 1:28:46

The Great British Role Model, with Nadiya Hussain MBE, Chef, Author, and TV Presenter

The Great British Role Model, with Nadiya Hussain MBE, Chef, Author, and TV Presenter

Nadiya Hussain MBE is a woman whose journey and whose words are seared into the consciousness of all of us. Who could ever forget that tearful victory speech when she won The Great British Bake Off?  But the most remarkable thing about Nadiya is not what a talented baker she is but the way in which she has courageously tuned in to her inner voice, broken down barriers at every turn and challenged nearly every stereotype possible. Overcoming panic attacks and racist trolls to become an accide

Nov 29, 2021 • 58:25

Unlocking Talent, Stitching Hope, with Katy Emck OBE, Founding Director of Fine Cell Work

Unlocking Talent, Stitching Hope, with Katy Emck OBE, Founding Director of Fine Cell Work

In a captivating conversation, Katy Emck OBE delves into her inspirational story as Founding Director of Fine Cell Work, a charity and social enterprise which tackles social rehabilitation by teaching prisoners the art of creative needlework.  Together with the late, great Lady Anne Tree, Katy began working with prisoners to create fine, commercial needlework which is now sold to customers across the globe. The therapeutic nature of stitching acts as a purposeful activity that has given hope,

Nov 22, 2021 • 58:12

Building a world famous beauty empire, then starting all over again, with Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty

Building a world famous beauty empire, then starting all over again, with Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty

In one of Holly’s most anticipated interviews, she speaks to her heroine Bobbi Brown about her influential journey as a serial entrepreneur and her success in building a beauty empire.  Recognising the need for diversity amongst makeup products within the industry, Bobbi followed her gut as a budding makeup artist, to build a brand for all skin tones and types. Fast forward thirty years, and Bobbi Brown is a renowned billion dollar beauty brand, used by women across the world.  As if being a

Nov 15, 2021 • 56:34

A Visionary Approach to Business with Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of Specsavers

A Visionary Approach to Business with Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of Specsavers

This week Holly speaks with Dame Mary Perkins, co-founder of one of the nation’s most beloved brands, Specsavers. Having always been one to challenge stereotypes, Dame Mary built her business not from the kitchen table, but on a table tennis table in her spare room and has continued to excel throughout her career ever since.  Seizing an opportunity to revolutionise the industry in the 1980’s, Dame Mary focused on offering an exceptional customer experience by encouraging her workforce to tre

Oct 4, 2021 • 53:56

​​The art of using business to change lives with Becky Sheraidah founder of Arthouse Unlimited

​​The art of using business to change lives with Becky Sheraidah founder of Arthouse Unlimited

How could each of us channel our passions into a cause for good? That’s exactly what Becky Sheraidah did when she founded Arthouse Unlimited. Believing that offering a sense of purpose is at the heart of improving our happiness, health and wellbeing, Becky began working with a collective of artists, each living with complex neuro-diverse and physical support needs, to create stunningly beautiful products. Becky speaks to Holly about her determination to harness raw talent and create a busine

Sep 27, 2021 • 59:47

Building the ultimate family business, with Sir John Timpson, owner of Timpson

Building the ultimate family business, with Sir John Timpson, owner of Timpson

Sir John Timpson, chairman and owner of Timpson is the very embodiment of building a business with family truly at its heart and kindness as a guiding principle. Hailing from a very long line of entrepreneurs, five generations of the Timpson family have been involved in the business that bears their name, business has always been in the blood. Recognised for his creative approach to employee recruitment and his innovative work helping ex-offenders re-enter the workplace, John shares how foste

Sep 20, 2021 • 59:58

Stitching the future, crafting a community with Tilly Walnes, founder of Tilly and the Buttons

Stitching the future, crafting a community with Tilly Walnes, founder of Tilly and the Buttons

A story of how a little true passion can snowball into a triumphant business, Tilly Walnes, founder of Tilly and the Buttons, shares her incredible journey; a decade of lessons learnt and the benefit of building a strong community through her own love of sewing.  Feeling frustrated that her day job didn’t allow her to be creative with her hands, Tilly began sewing and writing her blog, with a mission to share this passion for the power of good. She wholeheartedly encourages others to have a go

Sep 13, 2021 • 59:51

How to change the world with your brand, with David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Hiut Denim

How to change the world with your brand, with David Hieatt, founder of Howies, The Do Lectures and Hiut Denim

“There are 18 inches between your head and your heart,” David tells us, as he seeks to demystify what it means to be a truly connected brand. A mission-led entrepreneur, David Hieatt is a real visionary with extraordinary business agility. Founder of Howies, The Do Lectures, and Hiut Denim, he encourages all of us to challenge the story of who we are, who we can be, and how each of us can shape and change the world. With a quiet passion and power, David continually pushes new boundaries, insp

Sep 6, 2021 • 58:56

The 10 year overnight success story, with Joe Wicks, founder of The Body Coach - The Classics Collection

The 10 year overnight success story, with Joe Wicks, founder of The Body Coach - The Classics Collection

A story of pure vision, determination, and a passion for fitness has seen the meteoric rise of Joe Wicks, who describes himself as a ‘10 year overnight success story’. TV presenter and author, specialising in cooking and fitness books, Joe started his career as a personal trainer, but he only experienced success when he started posting 15-second recipe videos on social media. Joe grew his brand to become one of the most followed fitness accounts on Instagram, his first published cookbook Lean i

Aug 30, 2021 • 54:07

The ultimate British success story, with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and JamJar Investments - The Classics Collection

The ultimate British success story, with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and JamJar Investments - The Classics Collection

The story of Innocent is a phenomenal one - simply built on 3 friends deciding at university they wanted to start a business together allowing them to hang out every day. In this episode, Richard Reed, co-founder of Innocent and now co-founder of Jam Jar reveals that they settled on smoothies as 'the product' on a hangover(!) and the entrepreneurial roller coaster ensued. With numerous highs along the journey, as well as epic lows during the financial crisis, Richard shares his journey and les

Aug 23, 2021 • 1:06:14

Finding your 'Happy Place' through building a business, with Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place - The Classics Collection

Finding your 'Happy Place' through building a business, with Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place - The Classics Collection

A true entrepreneur in the making, Fearne is creating a strong brand from her purpose and passion - building a business doing exactly what she loves.  In this episode, Holly and Fearne discuss the difficult transition from taking the leap into starting her own business, the juggle as a working mum, to navigating social media as well as the solace she has found in putting creativity at the very heart of everyday life.  Charting her hugely successful career as a TV and radio presenter, she sha

Aug 16, 2021 • 1:11:07

Following your dream against the odds, with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of The Black Farmer - The Classic Collection

Following your dream against the odds, with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of The Black Farmer - The Classic Collection

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, also known as The Black Farmer, is someone who has always followed his own path. After arriving from Jamaica at the age of 3, growing up in a terrace house in Birmingham, and being diagnosed as dyslexic - it might have seemed like the odds were stacked against Wilfred. But a single dream as a young boy, of one day, owning his own farm, has defined Wilfred’s life. And, after a successful career in Television and PR, Wilfred realised this dream, and launched his brand ‘The

Aug 9, 2021 • 1:06:29

How to build a brand with £600 from the kitchen table, with Julie Deane OBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company -  The Classic Collection

How to build a brand with £600 from the kitchen table, with Julie Deane OBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company - The Classic Collection

Julie Deane was Holly’s first ever guest and a truly inspirational way to kick off the collection. Charting the rollercoaster ride that was the meteoric rise of the Cambridge Satchel Company, over the course of their conversation, Holly & Julie talked about the importance of a supportive family and what motivated Julie to start her business. They also delve into the difficulties of scaling a business and how companies change as they grow. An incredible woman with such drive, a no-nonsens

Aug 2, 2021 • 58:27

S12: Navigating the juggle to build a brand with Rochelle Humes, Singer, TV Presenter and Founder

S12: Navigating the juggle to build a brand with Rochelle Humes, Singer, TV Presenter and Founder

This week Holly speaks with singer, TV presenter, and female founder Rochelle Humes. A woman of many talents, Rochelle Humes’ journey into the public eye started when she joined the British pop band, S Club Juniors, aged just 12, and would set her on the path towards creating a life she loves. This episode follows Rochelle’s journey, from the early days of her pop career to navigating the juggle of a busy, successful career whilst being a mother of three and launching her own company following

Jul 26, 2021 • 51:31

S12: Rewriting the Ready Meal Book with Charlie Bigham founder of Charlie Bigham’s

S12: Rewriting the Ready Meal Book with Charlie Bigham founder of Charlie Bigham’s

In this episode, Holly talks with Charlie Bigham, founder of Charlie Bigham’s ready meals. A brand name synonymous with ‘home cooking’, this episode goes behind the brand name to meet the founder himself. Charlie’s story is a fascinating one, after taking an industry by storm, he used his commitment and vision to not only challenge the status quo of ready meals but to build a business that acts as a true force for good in the world. Shunning the ‘way things were always done’ and instead se

Jul 19, 2021 • 56:56

S12: Finding your niche, with Neal Whittington founder of Present & Correct

S12: Finding your niche, with Neal Whittington founder of Present & Correct

A lifelong obsession was ignited when Neal Whittington was given a £7 WHSmith voucher as a child. Neal has since gone on to carve his own niche in stationery with his brand ‘Present and Correct’ and amassed legions of fans with his beautifully curated collections, mixing vintage with new, tapping into our nostalgia and our own ‘human-ness’ to connect beyond technology and screens. In this episode, Neal shares his journey to leaving behind his day job as a designer and embarking upon a new path

Jul 12, 2021 • 59:33

S12: Dream it, Create it, with Lucy Sparrow, founder of Sew Your Soul

S12: Dream it, Create it, with Lucy Sparrow, founder of Sew Your Soul

With a mantra that it is the energy you put in, that will see you succeed, artist Lucy Sparrow is the epitome of being utterly passionate (obsessed even) with the product you are creating.  Crafting felt creations to make you smile, her instantly recognisable pieces blend the world of colourful, tactile creations with a hard-hitting social commentary that tackles the world of gun crime, the sex industry, and the demise of our traditional high streets. There is no doubt that Lucy’s art is sha

Jul 5, 2021 • 55:53

S12: Making the ordinary extraordinary, with Anya Hindmarch CBE

S12: Making the ordinary extraordinary, with Anya Hindmarch CBE

Anya Hindmarch has forever been one of Holly’s biggest inspirations. Not only as a fashion accessories icon with her incredible artistry and creativity, but also because she really has set the bar in terms of holistic branding and true immersive experience. So, for Holly, this Conversation of Inspiration is a real moment in time. Join this captivating conversation for a glimpse into the world through Anya’s eyes - both of the world as we know it today, and of a future filled with high streets

Jun 28, 2021 • 57:30

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with founders Olivia and Daisy of A South London Makers Market and Natalie and Daniel Reynolds founders of Fred & Noah

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with founders Olivia and Daisy of A South London Makers Market and Natalie and Daniel Reynolds founders of Fred & Noah

This week marks the last of our Small Business Stories podcast specials, where we have been celebrating our wonderful small business community as part of our summer Campaign Shop Independent. This week Holly chats to Liv and Dais, founders of A South London Makers Market; who, still within their first year of trading, have just completed their first pop-up store in Selfridges - something they could only have dreamed of 12 months ago.  A true testament to believing and trusting in yourself, sho

Jun 24, 2021 • 58:30

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with The Chocolate Smiths founder Steffi Smith and Kojo Marfo founder of My Runway Group

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with The Chocolate Smiths founder Steffi Smith and Kojo Marfo founder of My Runway Group

This week’s episode of Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special, sees Holly chat to small business founders Steffi from The Chocolate Smiths and Kojo from My Runway Group, both of whom have built businesses from their hearts in order to give to other people.  Not only does this episode highlight the need for a small business to prepare for the unknown, it also spotlights the fine balance between commerciality and fairness; something that can be a constant battle whilst buildin

Jun 17, 2021 • 1:00:06

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with founder Nikki McWilliams and The Treats Club founder Lungi Mhlanga

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with founder Nikki McWilliams and The Treats Club founder Lungi Mhlanga

Our two founders on this week's Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special, focus on how ‘niche’ can become a thriving and growing brand. In this episode, both Nikki, founder of Nikki McWilliams and Lungi Mhlanga, The Treats Club founder share their own journeys to building businesses following their passion, their lessons and ethos of empowering other female founders.  Both Nikki and Lungi are testament to staying true to your core, and a timely reminder, that if as a founder

Jun 10, 2021 • 59:33

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with Chupi founder Chupi Sweetman and In Good Company founder Laura Wellington

S11: Small Business Stories: Campaign Shop Independent Special with Chupi founder Chupi Sweetman and In Good Company founder Laura Wellington

In this first Campaign Shop Independent podcast special, Holly meets two phenomenal female founders - Chupi Sweetman, founder of jewellery brand Chupi and Laura Wellington, serial entrepreneur and founder of In Good Company, co-founder of Duke Studios and Sheaf Street. Two founders with huge ambition, passion and a vision to make a huge impact, but with their respective localities - Dublin and Leeds - at the very centre of their brands' identity. A real insight into the mindset of thriving s

Jun 3, 2021 • 59:55

S11: Growing a good life, with Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon

S11: Growing a good life, with Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon

This conversation is an absolute ode to doing what you love. Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon are icons of sheer graft, determination, passion and love. Their business is everything to them, Petalon is not only a labour of love but a glimpse into their soul. As consumers, they wanted more affordable, more beautiful flowers than was currently available and so they set out on an incredible journey together to find a solution. Secure in the knowledge that they would always be eac

May 24, 2021 • 59:55

S11: Growing a good life, with Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon

S11: Growing a good life, with Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon

This conversation is an absolute ode to doing what you love. Florence and James Kennedy, founders of Petalon are icons of sheer graft, determination, passion and love. Their business is everything to them, Petalon is not only a labour of love but a glimpse into their soul. As consumers, they wanted more affordable, more beautiful flowers than was currently available and so they set out on an incredible journey together to find a solution. Secure in the knowledge that they would always be eac

May 24, 2021 • 59:55

S11: Mental resilience as a winning formula, with Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Olympic Champion & Femtech Entrepreneur

S11: Mental resilience as a winning formula, with Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Olympic Champion & Femtech Entrepreneur

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill is the epitome of female strength. Not only physically, but mentally resilient; determined, grounded and focused - purely driven by her passion for sport and her competitive nature. A true representation of what you can achieve when you have the confidence to know that you are in the right place at the right time. Jessica shares with Holly her lifelong dedication to sport, the sacrifices she chose to make when she was younger and her belief that preparation and commit

May 17, 2021 • 59:53

Mental resilience as a winning formula, with Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Olympic Champion & Femtech Entrepreneur

Mental resilience as a winning formula, with Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill, Olympic Champion & Femtech Entrepreneur

Dame Jessica Ennis-Hill is the epitome of female strength. Not only physically, but mentally resilient; determined, grounded and focused - purely driven by her passion for sport and her competitive nature. A true representation of what you can achieve when you have the confidence to know that you are in the right place at the right time. Jessica shares with Holly her lifelong dedication to sport, the sacrifices she chose to make when she was younger and her belief that preparation and commitment

May 17, 2021 • 59:53

S11: The power of vulnerability, with Anna Mathur, psychotherapist, speaker and author

S11: The power of vulnerability, with Anna Mathur, psychotherapist, speaker and author

This week’s episode of Conversations of Inspiration sees Holly speak with psychotherapist, speaker and author, Anna Mathur. Anna is a strong believer that needing help and support isn’t failure; it’s a prerequisite of being human.  It’s easy to feel like a failure. It’s easy to feel guilty for not giving enough of yourself to your work, to your family, to your friends, and it's easy to feel alone with these thoughts. Anna has an amazing way of normalising these emotions, encouraging us to ac

May 10, 2021 • 59:24

The power of vulnerability, with Anna Mathur, psychotherapist, speaker and author

The power of vulnerability, with Anna Mathur, psychotherapist, speaker and author

This week’s episode of Conversations of Inspiration sees Holly speak with psychotherapist, speaker and author, Anna Mathur. Anna is a strong believer that needing help and support isn’t failure; it’s a prerequisite of being human.  It’s easy to feel like a failure. It’s easy to feel guilty for not giving enough of yourself to your work, to your family, to your friends, and it's easy to feel alone with these thoughts. Anna has an amazing way of normalising these emotions, encouraging us to accept

May 10, 2021 • 59:24

S11: Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

S11: Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water is the very embodiment of female empowerment. After deciding at 15 that her life's mission was to be a CEO (thanks to Puff Daddy), she embarked on her journey with such drive and determination that she started her own business at the age of 19.  With a personal ethos around finding your ‘why’ and a philosophy that if it feels ‘too much’ then take a step back and breathe. In order to be her best self, Natalie has lived her life with agency - for herself and

May 9, 2021 • 58:49

Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water is the very embodiment of female empowerment.After deciding at 15 that her life's mission was to be a CEO (thanks to Puff Daddy), she embarked on her journey with such drive and determination that she started her own business at the age of 19.  With a personal ethos around finding your ‘why’ and a philosophy that if it feels ‘too much’ then take a step back and breathe. In order to be her best self, Natalie has lived her life with agency - for herself and on h

Apr 28, 2021 • 58:49

Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

Know your value, with Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water

Natalie Campbell, CEO of Belu Water is the very embodiment of female empowerment.After deciding at 15 that her life's mission was to be a CEO (thanks to Puff Daddy), she embarked on her journey with such drive and determination that she started her own business at the age of 19.  With a personal ethos around finding your ‘why’ and a philosophy that if it feels ‘too much’ then take a step back and breathe. In order to be her best self, Natalie has lived her life with agency - for herself and on h

Apr 26, 2021 • 58:49

S11: How to future proof our high streets, with James Daunt, founder of Daunt Books

S11: How to future proof our high streets, with James Daunt, founder of Daunt Books

This week Holly speaks to James Daunt, founder of Daunt Books and CEO of Waterstones.  James is a passionate champion of independent high streets, so much so, that his reason for joining Waterstones as CEO was to turn the ship at the brink of failure in order to prevent what would have been a devastating loss to British independent book selling.  James’ view is that our high streets were in decline long before the pandemic struck. He is a firm believer that in order to regenerate, it is esse

Apr 19, 2021 • 59:55

S11: You can't make a science out of creativity, with designer and founder, Jenny Packham

S11: You can't make a science out of creativity, with designer and founder, Jenny Packham

In this week’s episode of Conversations of Inspiration Holly talks to designer and founder Jenny Packham. Raw, open and searingly honest, this interview will leave you in no doubt of the burning energy and powerful impact that living creatively can have on the world. Jenny Packham is one of the UK’s most successful fashion brands, her designs have graced red carpets and been worn by the most influential and iconic women of our time and redefined bridalwear. As a child, an early love of sewing

Apr 12, 2021 • 57:04

S11: Through creativity comes regeneration, with Anna Lewis, founder of Sketchy Muma

S11: Through creativity comes regeneration, with Anna Lewis, founder of Sketchy Muma

Finding personal fulfilment through creativity and regenerating after times of darkness define this week’s conversation with Anna Lewis, founder of creative small business, Sketchy Muma. Anna has the unique ability to draw beautiful, honest and heartfelt illustrations that depict experiences and feelings that somehow seem to capture moments in time that resonate with so many.  Holly and Anna talk about building a brand by harnessing the power of raw emotion through personal experience and be

Apr 6, 2021 • 58:46

S11: Self belief and taking risks, with modern day ‘Journey Man’ Ben Fogle

S11: Self belief and taking risks, with modern day ‘Journey Man’ Ben Fogle

Self belief, taking risks and a lust for finding the path less travelled defines this week’s Conversation of Inspiration with Ben Fogle. With a successful TV career, a passion for the environment and more than 20 years of monumental global challenges, Ben’s life has been one of highs and lows, but the golden thread throughout has been his continued strive towards pushing outside of his comfort zone. Ben speaks of how all his experiences have shaped him as a person, and how his aspirations to ta

Mar 29, 2021 • 59:47

S11: Growing a mission led business from the ground up, with Sebastian Pole co-founder of Pukka Herbs

S11: Growing a mission led business from the ground up, with Sebastian Pole co-founder of Pukka Herbs

How do you turn a passion for herbs into one of the most pioneering and sustainable companies of our time? That’s the question Holly poses to Sebastain Pole, co-founder of Pukka Herbs on this week's episode. After years of studying to become a Master Herbsmith,  Sebastian spied an advert in a local magazine, placed by Tim Westwell, looking for creative business ideas related to herbalism. As the only person to respond, the seeds were sown and they embarked upon creating a mission led business,

Mar 22, 2021 • 59:29

S11: The secret to building an iconic beauty brand, with Liz Earle MBE

S11: The secret to building an iconic beauty brand, with Liz Earle MBE

With a strong mission to share her passion for the power of botanicals,  Liz Earle MBE has revolutionised the wellbeing sector and forever changed the connection between beauty and health. Liz shares her story from her early career spent writing for beauty magazines, researching every available product to co-founding her iconic skincare line. Harnessing her belief that beauty comes from the inside out, Liz set about changing the face of beauty forever. This episode follows Liz’s journey, from

Mar 15, 2021 • 59:06

S10 Ep100: Living a life less ordinary, with Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Holly & Co

S10 Ep100: Living a life less ordinary, with Holly Tucker MBE, founder of Holly & Co

This week we celebrate the 100th episode of Conversations of Inspiration. In her most in depth and personal interview to date, Holly recounts her own journey. Interviewed by the small business community as well as close friends and family - Holly delves into who, and what, has shaped her journey to date. A look back at her childhood and the incredible rollercoaster she has been on since, Holly reflects on the people and places that have shaped who she is today. Recounting some of her lowest mom

Feb 8, 2021 • 1:29:24

S10: From supermodel to pub landlady, with Jodie Kidd, Supermodel & Entrepreneur

S10: From supermodel to pub landlady, with Jodie Kidd, Supermodel & Entrepreneur

In a rare and candid conversation, Jodie Kidd shares with Holly her journey. A journey full of twists and turns and highs and lows, that ultimately brought her full circle to becoming the proud owner of her local pub. Recounting her youth spent growing up in the British countryside surrounded by horses, to the whirlwind life as one of the most celebrated supermodels of her generation; Jodie shares how she has overcome her own mental health battles, discovering the power of saying ‘no’ and her d

Feb 1, 2021 • 56:35

S10: Changing the craft landscape, with Sophie Sellu, founder of Grain & Knot

S10: Changing the craft landscape, with Sophie Sellu, founder of Grain & Knot

This week Holly talks to Sophie Sellu, founder of Grain & Knot. Born from a love of nature and the need for purpose in creation, Sophie makes beautifully tactile, fully functional kitchen utensils using modern design and traditional tools and methods. After being made redundant and deciding to attend a wood carving course,  Sophie bought an axe and a set of knives and set about carving her own future, by embracing a craft that she loved. Embracing ‘slow’ is part of Sophie’s philosophy and

Jan 25, 2021 • 57:37

S10: Taking responsibility to build a life you love with Jake Humphrey, broadcaster and founder

S10: Taking responsibility to build a life you love with Jake Humphrey, broadcaster and founder

A familiar face across our TVs, this week broadcaster and founder, Jake Humphrey shares a rare insight into his background and personal philosophies - both of which he credits with finding success today. Growing up in Norfolk, Jake’s childhood was not an easy one after suffering severe bullying at school. After failing his exams and being fired from McDonalds, someone took a chance on Jake and changed the course of this life forever. In this conversation, Jake shares his belief that one must

Jan 18, 2021 • 59:16

S10: Holly’s Christmas Special 2020

S10: Holly’s Christmas Special 2020

In this festive special, Holly revisits some of her favourite interviews and guests from 2020. Delving back into the archives, Holly is joined by guests including Sir Tim Smit, Kanya King CBE, Paul Lindley OBE, Jacqueline Gold CBE, Lord John Bird, Jay Blades, Samantha Renke and Marcia Kilgore as they reflect on their own personal journeys, their highs, lows and lessons along the way. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly Tucker MBE and Holly & Co on Instag

Dec 21, 2020 • 39:40

S10: Flourishing in a traditional industry, with Aron Gelbard, co-founder of Bloom & Wild

S10: Flourishing in a traditional industry, with Aron Gelbard, co-founder of Bloom & Wild

This week Holly speaks with Aron Gelbard, co-founder of Bloom & Wild. A founder passionate about making people happy, Aron knew he could only build a brand that evoked emotion. A florist first and foremost, that has broken new ground in an already established industry, Bloom & Wild has set the industry standard where others now follow. With little knowledge of either tech development or floristry, Aron pursued an idea that was virtually unheard of. Using technology to deliver thoughtful

Dec 14, 2020 • 57:44

S10: Pioneering a literary revolution, with Andy Hunter, founder of Bookshop.org

S10: Pioneering a literary revolution, with Andy Hunter, founder of Bookshop.org

This week's episode with Andy Hunter, founder of Bookshop.org, brings us a modern day David vs Goliath story. His mission is to make it as easy as Amazon to shop responsibly and ethically, ensuring that books and local bricks and mortar bookshops remain part of popular culture. With a highly innovative business model that has thrived during the pandemic, Andy shares with Holly where his love of books first originated, how he is creating a movement for socially conscious consumers and the import

Dec 7, 2020 • 52:29

S10: Building an ethical chocolate empire, with Angus Thirlwell, co-founder of Hotel Chocolat

S10: Building an ethical chocolate empire, with Angus Thirlwell, co-founder of Hotel Chocolat

As the son of the founder of Mr Whippy, perhaps Angus Thirlwell was always destined to build his own brand. But his path to success has not been without some hard won lessons and deep personal insight into his own motivation in life. Angus’s vision for Hotel Chocolat has always been to not only reimagine an industry, but also bring back core values and purpose into the confectionary market at a time when the heritage of chocolate was being lost in the UK. From innovative products and the bes

Nov 30, 2020 • 59:25

S10: Challenging the conventional by curating beauty, with Alexia Inge, co-founder of Cult Beauty

S10: Challenging the conventional by curating beauty, with Alexia Inge, co-founder of Cult Beauty

How do you build a business by challenging the conventional? In this episode, Alexia Inge shares her lessons as she recounts her story building the online beauty empire Cult Beauty. Growing up in a village in Somerset, Alexia’s background in the fashion and PR world gave her an insight into an industry that had always previously been dominated by much larger brands. But it was whilst recovering from a serious car accident that Alexia came up with a plan for a one stop online shop selling the

Nov 23, 2020 • 59:39

S10: Championing charitable change through creative imagination, with Alistair Hall and Kirsty Telford

S10: Championing charitable change through creative imagination, with Alistair Hall and Kirsty Telford

Hidden behind a secret door, in a fantastical shop, lies an ingenious organisation that is unlocking societal change in the most creative of ways. In episode 1 of series 10, Holly meets Alistair Hall, one of the founders, and Kirsty Telford Deputy Director of the charity, The Ministry of Stories and its retail space Hoxton Street Monster Supplies. The Ministry of Stories, aims to inspire young people to transform their lives through the power of creative writing, and is hidden behind a secret

Nov 16, 2020 • 56:16

S9: Building legacy through passion with Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project - part 2

S9: Building legacy through passion with Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project - part 2

The final and truly inspiring installment of a conversation that Holly believes will fundamentally change your life. In part 2 of our Conversation of Inspiration ‘Building Legacy through Passion’ Sir Tim Smit shares with Holly his first vision of Eden and the incredible journey leading to where it is today. Billed as the 8th Wonder of the World and celebrating its 20th anniversary next year, Eden is a paradise like no other and remains one of the most recognised landmarks of the 21st century.

Nov 9, 2020 • 41:47

S9: Building legacy through passion, with Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project - part 1

S9: Building legacy through passion, with Sir Tim Smit KBE, founder of The Eden Project - part 1

A conversation that Holly believes will fundamentally change your life - a brilliant, straight talking and accomplished storyteller, Tim’s journey to building Eden (billed as the 8th wonder of the world) will have you captivated from the very start. So for the first time ever on Conversations of Inspiration, his story will be shared over two episodes. In part 1, Tim shares his journey from his education studying archaeology to an unexpected career in the music industry. After relocating to Corn

Nov 2, 2020 • 49:09

S9: Fighting for fairness and equality, with Samantha Renke

S9: Fighting for fairness and equality, with Samantha Renke

Samantha Renke has written her own remarkable story by living with huge tenacity, courage and determination all wrapped up in an infectious personality. Born with brittle bone disease, as a child Samantha knew she was different and recalls all the things she was told she wouldn't be able to do. Fiercely independent and refusing to take no for an answer, Samantha's determination to fulfil her dreams is a story everyone should hear. Defying the naysayers, Samantha has worked tirelessly as an acti

Oct 26, 2020 • 56:02

S9: SME:SOS Live with Will Butler-Adams, CEO Brompton Bikes and Richard Callender, presenter and fitness expert

S9: SME:SOS Live with Will Butler-Adams, CEO Brompton Bikes and Richard Callender, presenter and fitness expert

In the final episode of this SME:SOS series Holly speaks to Will Butler Adams, CEO of Brompton and Richard Callender, presenter and fitness expert. Both guests share the most incredible lessons and insights - not only from a business perspective, but fundamental life lessons too. From mindset and accountability, to leadership and risk taking - this episode culminates with Holly sharing some of her own insights from this period of time.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesse

Oct 22, 2020 • 42:54

S9: Designing with purpose, with Wayne Hemingway MBE

S9: Designing with purpose, with Wayne Hemingway MBE

Purpose and building a brand with integrity is at the very heart of this inspiring conversation with renowned designer Wayne Hemingway. A true example of creativity supporting and championing the strong values and vision that Wayne holds for the future. Born in the seaside town of Morecambe, Wayne shares his story from the early days selling second hand clothes at Camden Market to building a renowned fashion label that did things differently. We also discuss the valuable work Wayne does with H

Oct 19, 2020 • 56:57

S9: SME:SOS with Wayne Hemingway MBE, designer and Mary Hormer, CEO of The White Company

S9: SME:SOS with Wayne Hemingway MBE, designer and Mary Hormer, CEO of The White Company

This week Holly welcomes two titans of industry. Mary Homer, CEO of The White Company and Wayne Hemingway MBE, designer and co founder of Red or Dead and Hemingway Design. With a shared passion and knowledge in retail, Mary and Wayne impart years of industry knowledge and expertise with us. Sharing their vision of the future of bricks and mortar and what we can all do to save it.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice from exper

Oct 15, 2020 • 36:18

S9: Living a colourful and creative life, with Annie Sloan

S9: Living a colourful and creative life, with Annie Sloan

Named one of Britain's most influential female designers, Annie has always been passionate about art and creativity. Annie shares her colourful life, starring in a successful girl band, before becoming a mother and reviving her love of creativity and art. It was when working as an artist and feeling frustrated by the paint that was readily available, Annie started making paint from home with ingredients found around the house, before a chance meeting led her to a factory that would help her to

Oct 12, 2020 • 53:30

S9: SME: SOS Live with Anna Hill, General Manager of WW (Weight Watchers reimagined)  and Marisa Hordern, founder and Creative Director of Missoma

S9: SME: SOS Live with Anna Hill, General Manager of WW (Weight Watchers reimagined) and Marisa Hordern, founder and Creative Director of Missoma

From tangible tips on getting traction in the digital space, to the pitfalls of white labelling and the vital qualities as a leader, this week's guests are two inspiring and shining examples of brilliant female leaders.  Marisa Hordern, founder and Creative Director of Missoma and Anna Hill, General Manager of WW (Weight Watchers reimagined) openly share their own pitfalls, lessons and insights, in an open and with a shared vulnerability that epitomises exactly why women are such brilliant leade

Oct 8, 2020 • 35:52

S9: Pioneering change for future generations, with Kristin Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel!

S9: Pioneering change for future generations, with Kristin Hallenga, founder of CoppaFeel!

How do you navigate being diagnosed with incurable cancer aged just 23? And not just navigate it, but take control of your future and build a legacy... This is Kris’ story, but instead of being defeated by such devastating news, Kris began working tirelessly to create a movement for change. We follow Kris’ journey from her own diagnosis through to building Coppafeel!, her incredible charity built for young women by young women as well as putting cancer on the curriculum for the first time.

Oct 5, 2020 • 56:30

S9: SME: SOS with Thomasina Miers, co founder of Wahaca, and Kate and Kathy, authors of The Illustrated Guide to Dyslexia and Its Amazing People

S9: SME: SOS with Thomasina Miers, co founder of Wahaca, and Kate and Kathy, authors of The Illustrated Guide to Dyslexia and Its Amazing People

This week’s guests are three women who are passionate campaigners for change in their sectors. They are a true testament to the power we all have to lead change and make the world that little bit better in our own way. Whether it be championing sustainability in our food chain, to empower our young to believe their dyslexia is infact a superpower.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice from experts and founders, this episode is de

Oct 1, 2020 • 39:51

S9: Finding ‘the gap’ and redefining a sector, with Taymoor Atighetchi, founder of Papier

S9: Finding ‘the gap’ and redefining a sector, with Taymoor Atighetchi, founder of Papier

Is it really possible to carve a new genre within a sector dominated by huge brands? Well, Taymoor Atighetchi proves it is. Coming from a long line of antique dealers, Taymoor shares his story, from a teenager selling his wares at Portobello Market to building a digital business that would redefine the stationary sector. Successfully blending the worlds of art and technology, Papier’s luxury personalised stationery connects with every important milestone of a customer's life. From discussing

Sep 28, 2020 • 53:54

S9: SME: SOS with June Sarpong OBE, Broadcaster and Author and Dr Emma Hepburn, Clinical Psychologist

S9: SME: SOS with June Sarpong OBE, Broadcaster and Author and Dr Emma Hepburn, Clinical Psychologist

This week we tackle some of the biggest issues facing society and women - from imposter syndrome and feminism, to white privilege and guilt. Both June Sarpong OBE, and Dr Emma Hepburn, break down, step by step, exactly how we can tackle these issues and share the tools for you to use in your everyday life.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice from experts and founders, this episode is designed to empower and support you through

Sep 24, 2020 • 43:11

S9: Secrets of a Serial Entrepreneur, with Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

S9: Secrets of a Serial Entrepreneur, with Marcia Kilgore, founder of Beauty Pie

What is the secret to entrepreneurial success after success - ‘failure’ says Marcia.   From growing up in Canada and losing her father at just 11 years old, Marcia Kilgore talks to Holly about her journey to becoming a serial entrepreneur. Hailed by Oprah as one of the most inspiring women she has ever met, this episode follows Marcia’s incredible story. Arriving in New York aged just 18, a twist of fate led to her building her first business Bliss, a celebrity soaked spa. But Marcia didn’t sto

Sep 21, 2020 • 54:06

SME: SOS with Kate Halfpenny, founder of Halfpenny London and Alice River-Cripps, founder of Posh Totty Designs

SME: SOS with Kate Halfpenny, founder of Halfpenny London and Alice River-Cripps, founder of Posh Totty Designs

With more people starting businesses this year than ever before and this Christmas is set to be the biggest small christmas ever - what is the secret to success? How do you scale, and how do you hold on when it all starts to take off? Just some of the questions Holly explores with Kate Halfpenny, founder of Halfpenny London and Alice River-Cripps, founder of Posh Totty Designs this week.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice from

Sep 17, 2020 • 39:12

S9: Turning past failures into future success, with Will Beckett, co-founder of Hawksmoor

S9: Turning past failures into future success, with Will Beckett, co-founder of Hawksmoor

Hawksmoor is a restaurant built on strong values but how do you experience fast growth and retain those values as you scale? Described by critics and customers alike as world-class and the best in London, Hawksmoor was founded in 2006 by Will Beckett and Huw Gott with the brilliant philosophy that steak isn’t a dish, it’s an institution! Right from the start their vision was to offer a superior dining experience in beautifully relaxed surroundings and how an obsessive eye for detail and commit

Sep 14, 2020 • 55:18

S9: Turning Obstacles into Opportunity with Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO Awards

S9: Turning Obstacles into Opportunity with Kanya King CBE, founder of the MOBO Awards

Founder of the MOBO awards, Kanya King CBE, is an entrepreneur synonymous with breaking down barriers and is a leading champion for social change. Her drive and ambition for a better world, has seen her achieve huge success against all the odds - and her story is truly remarkable. Growing up in London, the youngest of nine children, Kanya’s long term success was borne out of a need to survive the harsh realities of growing up in poverty before going on to have a child herself aged just 16. Ka

Sep 7, 2020 • 51:26

S8: SME: SOS with designer Donna Wilson and Molly Price, founder of Molly Meg

S8: SME: SOS with designer Donna Wilson and Molly Price, founder of Molly Meg

This week, the brilliantly talented designer Donna Wilson, and Molly Price, founder of Molly Meg join Holly.   In this episode, both Donna and Molly share how they have been able to craft brands that stand out from the crowd with their own distinctive style and taste - but have remained small and agile. These two founders are the proof in the pudding, that small is powerful and ‘small’ can still mean going international. We also revisit Julie Deane, the founder of the Cambridge Satchel Company

Aug 6, 2020 • 40:02

S8: Creating a Cult Brand with a Conscience with the founders of Lucy & Yak

S8: Creating a Cult Brand with a Conscience with the founders of Lucy & Yak

If the key to unlocking long term societal change is with businesses who have purpose, then Lucy & Yak are leading the way. Founded just three year ago by Chris and Lucy, the brand has seen exponential growth since 2017 with their cult following for their dungarees. Their journey started when they made their first 100 pairs of dungarees and set off for India to find their manufacturer. They knew from day one, that they would settle for nothing less that a factory who upheld the same ethica

Aug 3, 2020 • 1:02:00

S8: SME: SOS with Author Christine Armstrong and Miraphora Mina, co founder of Design Studio Mina Lima

S8: SME: SOS with Author Christine Armstrong and Miraphora Mina, co founder of Design Studio Mina Lima

Passion is the golden thread that defines this week’s SME: SOS podcast - as Holly speaks to Author Christine Armstrong, writer of  The Mother of All Jobs: How to Have Children and a Career and Stay Sane(ish) and Miraphora Mina, co founder of design studio Mina Lima and one half of the creative duo behind bringing the Harry Potter films to life.   Whether it is for making societal change or for the pure love of her own craft - both Christine and Mira have this burning passion in bucket loads. You

Jul 30, 2020 • 39:05

S8: Empowering Women of Colour Through Product Innovation with Ade Hassan MBE,  Founder of Nubian Skin

S8: Empowering Women of Colour Through Product Innovation with Ade Hassan MBE, Founder of Nubian Skin

It is rare, in this day and age, that a truly new and innovative product is brought to the market, particularly in the fashion space, but that is exactly what Ade did with her  brand, Nubian Skin, which makes underwear in dark tones for women of colour. From dreaming of quitting the finance rat race, to Beyonce wearing her products, Ade Hassan has built a brilliant brand and is riding the entrepreneurial rollercoaster. Filled with highs, lows and crucial lessons she has learnt along the way, i

Jul 27, 2020 • 1:00:55

S8: SME: SOS with Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place and James Manning, International Editor of Time Out London

S8: SME: SOS with Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place and James Manning, International Editor of Time Out London

Fearne Cotton joins Holly this week alongside James Manning, the International Editor of Time Out London, as the share in this episode - both brands faced the imperative need to move fast and react to the consumer need, by taking their offerings online. Although covering a multitude of different topics in this podcast from Fearne’s experience of being a working mum during lockdown to how to support our young as they navigate the societal pressures of social media. But what underpins both thes

Jul 23, 2020 • 42:37

S8: Solving Societal issues with ‘Good’ Business, with Paul Lindley OBE, founder Ella’s Kitchen

S8: Solving Societal issues with ‘Good’ Business, with Paul Lindley OBE, founder Ella’s Kitchen

How does a child’s food brand become the gold standard in innovation and social purpose and a leading example in business across all sectors? This week Holly speaks to Paul Lindley OBE, founder of Ella’s Kitchen - who is driven by the belief that putting ‘human’ back into business, celebrating ideas and innovation as the key elements to making long term societal change. Paul’s story started, when as the dad of two young children he felt frustrated by the lack of healthy, tasty and convenient f

Jul 20, 2020 • 1:05:52

S8: SME: SOS with Sahar Hashemi OBE, co-founder of Coffee Republic and Alex Monroe, founder of Alex Monroe Jewellery

S8: SME: SOS with Sahar Hashemi OBE, co-founder of Coffee Republic and Alex Monroe, founder of Alex Monroe Jewellery

Sahar Hashemi OBE and Alex Monroe join Holly this week, to discuss the mindset of the consumer post COVID, the vital ingredient of ‘brand’ in any thriving business as well as the idea that connection and community will be the key to success in the future. SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice from experts and founders, this episode is designed to empower and support you through practical tips, advice and real life experiences. Th

Jul 16, 2020 • 38:29

S8:  Cheerleading change through art, with Rebecca Strickson, Award-Winning Illustrator and Designer

S8: Cheerleading change through art, with Rebecca Strickson, Award-Winning Illustrator and Designer

Ever wondered as a small business if you should share your personal views or keep it strictly business?  For Rebecca Strickson she sees it as one and the same thing. In this episode, alongside Rebecca’s personal journey to a successful artist, Holly and Rebecca explore the role that political and personal opinion play within building a brand.  They also discuss the barriers facing women entering into the creative industries as well as exploring Rebecca’s own influences and driving force behind

Jul 13, 2020 • 59:19

S8: SME: SOS with Emilie Bellet, founder of Vestpod and Ella d’Amato, CCMO of Notonthehighstreet

S8: SME: SOS with Emilie Bellet, founder of Vestpod and Ella d’Amato, CCMO of Notonthehighstreet

This week’s episode, is packed full of tangible actions and advice, as we tackle two elements at the heart of every successful creative business - getting to grips with your finances and understanding what makes brilliant product - as Emilie Bellet, founder of Vestpod and Ella d’Amato Chief Commercial and Marketing officer of Notonthehighstreet join Holly to share their insights and expertise. SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time. Offering advice

Jul 9, 2020 • 41:18

S8: Being a beacon of light in the face of adversity with Deborah James of Bowel Babe

S8: Being a beacon of light in the face of adversity with Deborah James of Bowel Babe

What does living with cancer do to your perspective on life? If Deborah James is anything to go by, it gives you a hunger for life, and a drive to make fundamental and long-lasting change to the system. Mum of two, Deborah James, also known as Bowel Babe, joins Holly in this episode to discuss her formative years, how she navigated the news every person would dread and how she is spending each day driving to make a change to the system. It is this desire to see a better way and strive to chang

Jul 6, 2020 • 1:02:57

S8: SME: SOS with Kathryn Tyler, co-founder of Digital Mums and Samantha Clarke, Happiness Consultant

S8: SME: SOS with Kathryn Tyler, co-founder of Digital Mums and Samantha Clarke, Happiness Consultant

In a world in which we are acutely aware of what is out of our control, this week Holly speaks to two brilliant experts, who share insights on what we can control - albeit in very different forms.  The first being supercharging our social media presence with Kathryn Tyler, co-founder of Digital Mums and the second how we can determine our own mindsets, and build our own happiness with Samantha Clarke, author of Love it or Leave it. Holly also revisits a conversation from the Congregation of In

Jul 2, 2020 • 41:23

S8: Empowering women in the bedroom & the board room with Jacqueline Gold CBE, CEO of Ann Summers

S8: Empowering women in the bedroom & the board room with Jacqueline Gold CBE, CEO of Ann Summers

With a strong mission to empower women in the boardroom as well as the bedroom, Jacquline revolutionised a male-dominated industry.  Beginning her career at 21 when she started working for her father’s company, Jacqueline quickly saw the potential to change the focus of the business. Using her passion, ambition, and creativity Jacquline developed the concept of at-home parties and forever changed the way women could shop for lingerie and sex toys.  This episode follows Jacquline’s incredible

Jun 29, 2020 • 55:22

S8: SME: SOS with Gord Ray, from Instagram and Julie Baker, from NatWest

S8: SME: SOS with Gord Ray, from Instagram and Julie Baker, from NatWest

The crucial importance of small businesses to the UK economy has never been so acute, and this week Holly is joined by two fundamental pillars of support for small businesses at this time - Instagram and NatWest. Both brands share their insights, tools and support for small businesses beyond COVID. We also revisit a past podcast with Joe Wicks, as he shares his view on the role social media has played in his brand success.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this

Jun 25, 2020 • 38:41

S8: From Tragedy to Triumph, using business to create a lasting legacy with Rob and Paul Forkin, Founders of Gandys

S8: From Tragedy to Triumph, using business to create a lasting legacy with Rob and Paul Forkin, Founders of Gandys

Tough times don’t last, tough people do - are the words shared in this episode by Rob and Paul, the founders of Gandys. But what do you do, when the very worst happens? How will the experience shape your life, and what will life look like on the other side? Recounting their experience of the Tsunami where Rob and Paul, were orphaned at a young age, resilience, building a legacy and purpose sit at the very core of this conversation. This episode follows Rob and Paul's journey to change the li

Jun 22, 2020 • 1:02:31

S8: SME: SOS with Mark Constantine OBE, founder of LUSH and Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark

S8: SME: SOS with Mark Constantine OBE, founder of LUSH and Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark

As the high street shops reopen this week, this episode focuses on the future of retail, from retail giants including Mark Constantine, founder of LUSH, and Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark.  We also hear from Bill Collison, founder of Bill’s restaurants - and they all share the same ethos, that being special to your customer, the vital importance of physical connection and the power of retail theatre are the key to a thriving retail sector of the future. SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support

Jun 18, 2020 • 43:21

S8: From Counter Girl to the Most Powerful Woman in the Beauty Industry with Caroline Hirons, Skincare expert, Author & YouTuber

S8: From Counter Girl to the Most Powerful Woman in the Beauty Industry with Caroline Hirons, Skincare expert, Author & YouTuber

How does a beauty counter girl, become the beauty industry’s most powerful women at 50? This week, Holly speaks to Caroline Hirons. Born in Liverpool but her childhood spent in Mississippi, Caroline’s greatest influences on her life were her grandmother and mother both of whom were beauty counter girls. With a love of the glamour and strong memories of the scents and makeup so loved by her heroines, you would imagine that Caroline’s path to beauty industry powerhouse was set. But after many yea

Jun 15, 2020 • 1:01:13

S8: SME: SOS with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer and Lauren Currie OBE, founder of Stride

S8: SME: SOS with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones MBE, founder of The Black Farmer and Lauren Currie OBE, founder of Stride

Resilience, embracing the unknown and how business leaders can lead the way in societal change are just some of the topics that Holly covers with Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, founder of The Black Farmer and Lauren Currie OBE, founder and CEO of Stride.   SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of the Coronavirus. Offering advice from experts and founders, these 30 minutes are designed to empower and support you through this climate. This SME: SOS Special

Jun 11, 2020 • 43:20

S8: From the streets to the House of Lords, through the power of business with Lord John Bird MBE, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Big Issue

S8: From the streets to the House of Lords, through the power of business with Lord John Bird MBE, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of the Big Issue

A funny, straight-talking and brilliant storyteller, John’s journey will have you enraptured from start to finish, in what must be one of the most iconic social enterprises in existence today. Lord John Bird’s story is one of the greatest Holly has had the pleasure to share on this podcast. From his early days in an orphanage, surviving through fighting and stealing, John’s childhood was not an easy one. Poverty-stricken, and in and out of prison, John realised that he would have to make his o

Jun 8, 2020 • 1:07:57

S8: The future of business is flexible with Anna Whitehouse, Journalist and Founder of Mother Pukka

S8: The future of business is flexible with Anna Whitehouse, Journalist and Founder of Mother Pukka

The recent months have moved the conversation around flexible working forward at a dramatic pace, but as employees realise the huge benefits, will businesses change the way in which they ask their most valuable assets to work? Anna Whitehouse, also known as Mother Pukka has been leading the Flex Appeal campaign for flexible working since 2015, and throughout this conversation she shares her own personal journey, from lawyer, to journalist and then finding her voice leading the campaign for cha

Jun 1, 2020 • 1:04:37

S7: SME: SOS with Edward Perry, co-founder of COOK, Steve Barclay, MP and Rachel Wilkins, from Dell UK

S7: SME: SOS with Edward Perry, co-founder of COOK, Steve Barclay, MP and Rachel Wilkins, from Dell UK

This week's guests are each from widely different sectors, but share a common view, that the future for creative businesses will be bright, as long as brands embrace the speed of change that is demanded of them right now. From company culture with Edward Perry, co founder of COOK, to what the government are doing to support small with Steve Barclay MP and how DELL are moving quickly to provide small businesses with all the tools they need to thrive - these 30 minutes will arm you with the insigh

May 25, 2020 • 34:48

S7: SME: SOS with Jo Tutchener Sharp, founder of Scamp and Dude, Pippa Murray, founder of Pip and Nut and Jayne Hardy, creator of the Blurt Foundation

S7: SME: SOS with Jo Tutchener Sharp, founder of Scamp and Dude, Pippa Murray, founder of Pip and Nut and Jayne Hardy, creator of the Blurt Foundation

Every business has been tested and has something to learn as it navigates this time - but not every business is struggling, in fact some are thriving.  This week, Holly speaks to three founders, who all in their own way, are thriving at this time - Jo Tutchener Sharp, founder of Scamp and Dude, Pippa Murray, founder of Pip and Nut, and finally Jayne Hardy, the founder of the Blurt Foundation. As well as discussing what they have learnt, Holly also explores whether the way in which we work has be

May 18, 2020 • 35:13

S7: SME: SOS with Robin Hutson, founder of The Pig, Asma Khan, founder of Darjeeling Express and Annika Bizon, from Three UK

S7: SME: SOS with Robin Hutson, founder of The Pig, Asma Khan, founder of Darjeeling Express and Annika Bizon, from Three UK

In this episode, Holly discusses what the future of hospitality might look like with Robin Hutson, founder of The Pig and Asma Khan, founder of Darjeeling Express, as well as discussing the vital need to adapt quickly and use this time to reflect on ourselves and our businesses. Annika, from Three UK also shares some lessons big businesses have learnt through this time and how vital community and company culture are. SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbule

May 11, 2020 • 38:26

S7: SME: SOS with Jay Blades, presenter of BBCs The Repair Shop, Petra Barran, founder of KERB and Claire Russell, founder of playHOORAY!

S7: SME: SOS with Jay Blades, presenter of BBCs The Repair Shop, Petra Barran, founder of KERB and Claire Russell, founder of playHOORAY!

SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of the Coronavirus. Offering advice from experts and founders, these 30 minutes are designed to empower and support you through this climate.   In this episode, Holly discusses the idea of ‘bounce back’ and community with Jay Blades, presenter of BBCs The Repair Shop. Whilst with Petra Barran, founder of KERB, the conversation focuses on using this time to ‘test your mettle’ as an entrepreneur and driving your

May 4, 2020 • 33:50

S7: SME: SOS with John Vincent MBE, co-founder of LEON, Nicole Smart, lifecoach and Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s

S7: SME: SOS with John Vincent MBE, co-founder of LEON, Nicole Smart, lifecoach and Jo Fairley, co-founder of Green & Black’s

SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of the Coronavirus. Offering advice from experts and founders, these 30 minutes are designed to empower and support you through this climate. In this episode, Holly speaks to LEON founder John Vincent, alongside reacting quickly to the crisis, John reveals the role that fear plays within his business decisions and how to harness the clarity that fear creates.  Life coach Nicole explains personality types in or

Apr 27, 2020 • 32:02

S7: SME: SOS with Dave Buonaguidi, artist, Pip Jamieson, founder of The Dots and Jon Nicholson, from Royal Mail

S7: SME: SOS with Dave Buonaguidi, artist, Pip Jamieson, founder of The Dots and Jon Nicholson, from Royal Mail

SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of the Coronavirus. Offering advice from experts and founders, these 30 minutes are designed to empower and support you through this climate.   In this episode, Holly is joined by Artist Dave Buonaguidi, founder of The Dots, Pip Jamieson, as well as Jon Nicholson from Royal Mail.  Whilst all from different sectors, all three shared a common belief - that small, creative businesses and entrepreneurs will thrive

Apr 20, 2020 • 34:16

S7: SME: SOS with Joe Wicks, founder of The Body Coach, Megan Carver, founder of Carver PR & Rita Clifton CBE

S7: SME: SOS with Joe Wicks, founder of The Body Coach, Megan Carver, founder of Carver PR & Rita Clifton CBE

SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of the Coronavirus. Offering advice from experts and founders, as well as covering the key announcements and developments that affect small businesses from the past week. In this episode, Holly is joined by Joe Wicks, the nation's PE teacher, to talk about putting passion and purpose at the heart of your brand. Holly also discusses how to protect and future proof your brand in this climate with Rita Clifton CB

Apr 13, 2020 • 32:53

S7: SME: SOS with Will Butler-Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes and Steph Douglas, founder of Don’t Buy Her Flowers

S7: SME: SOS with Will Butler-Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes and Steph Douglas, founder of Don’t Buy Her Flowers

SME: SOS is a topical podcast to support small businesses through this turbulent time of Covid-19. Offering advice from experts and founders, as well as covering the key announcements and developments that have affected small businesses from the past week.   In this episode, Holly discusses her view on the government backed loan scheme and the power of a united team. She also welcomes Will Butler-Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes, and Steph Douglas, founder of Don’t Buy Her Flowers to discuss how the

Apr 6, 2020 • 32:01

S7: Selling your business to your employees to safeguard its future with Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford

S7: Selling your business to your employees to safeguard its future with Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford

Recorded weeks before Covid-19 hit the UK - this episode is even more poignant as Holly and Guy Singh-Watson, founder of Riverford Organic Farmers, discuss the need for Governments to sit up and make real change to support small businesses and our high streets. Riverford was one of the first businesses to reach the market with an organic online food model and led the way in identifying a new conscious consumer in the UK. But life as a young boy, growing up on a farm and highly dyslexic, meant

Mar 30, 2020 • 1:07:27

S7: Restoring life through doing what you love with presenter & founder of Jay & Co, Jay Blades

S7: Restoring life through doing what you love with presenter & founder of Jay & Co, Jay Blades

What happens, when in a split second, you lose your business and your marriage? Jay Blades shares his story of hitting rock bottom, to find his way back to happiness, by sharing his vulnerability and allowing someone else to lift him up. Brought up in inner-city London Jay did not have an easy start in life, but with an entrepreneurial streak from an early age, Jay soon found there was life outside his council estate and he strived for a different life. A true community leader, Jay has always

Mar 23, 2020 • 1:02:28

S7: Creating a magical empire with MinaLima founders Eduardo Lima & Miraphora Mina, designers on Harry Potter

S7: Creating a magical empire with MinaLima founders Eduardo Lima & Miraphora Mina, designers on Harry Potter

What is it like, to be entrusted with the creative legacy, of one of the world’s most famous stories? MinaLima, aka Miraphora Mina and Eduardo Lima, are the creative duo behind bringing Harry Potter to life on the big screen. Graphic designers with huge imaginations, MinaLima are pioneers within their craft, and after a chance meeting through a mutual friend, they went on to lead the graphic design on all the Harry Potter films and are designers behind everything from The Daily Prophet to the Q

Mar 16, 2020 • 1:02:33

S7: Changing history for women with activist, journalist and author Caroline Criado-Perez OBE

S7: Changing history for women with activist, journalist and author Caroline Criado-Perez OBE

In a society filled with hidden inequality, how do you a) recognise it and b) make ‘change’? Best-selling author Caroline Criado-Perez OBE is a feminist activist and led the campaign for keeping a woman on British banknotes. Not only that, but she also spearheaded the movement to install the first female statue in Parliament Square. Caroline epitomises the difference we can make in the world when we see that something needs to change. In this episode, Holly and Caroline explore how our genera

Mar 9, 2020 • 1:03:20

S7: Conquering fear and breaking gender stereotypes with firefighter & psychologist Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton

S7: Conquering fear and breaking gender stereotypes with firefighter & psychologist Dr. Sabrina Cohen-Hatton

The fuel of entrepreneurial spirit can be transformative - this is never truer than in the story of Dr Sabrina Cohen-Hatton. Homeless as just 15 years old, Sabrina faced the most difficult, terrifying and tragic set of circumstances. Yet her entrepreneurial mindset burned bright, whilst living on the streets, she not only became a Big Issue seller but completed her GCSE’s too. At 16 Sabrina found her way back to independence as set her sights on the Fire Service and by the age of 18 she was

Mar 2, 2020 • 1:09:13

S7: Exam failure to multi-millionaire hotelier with The Pig Hotels founder Robin Hutson

S7: Exam failure to multi-millionaire hotelier with The Pig Hotels founder Robin Hutson

Dubbed 'Britain's most influential hotelier', Robin Hutson, founder of the iconic PIG hotels, left school with 3 O-levels and few prospects. It was a sideways step into catering college which saw passion, vision and excitement alight for the first time - and would set the scene for Robin’s story to truly begin into becoming one of the most famous hoteliers in the UK. This episode charts Robin’s career within hospitality, from courting famous faces at The Savoy in his early days to starting his

Feb 24, 2020 • 56:09

S7: Pioneer of the Fairtrade movement with Green & Black's founder Jo Fairley, Live in Harrogate

S7: Pioneer of the Fairtrade movement with Green & Black's founder Jo Fairley, Live in Harrogate

A pioneer of the fair trade and organic food movement, Jo Fairley launched Green and Black's with the simple premise, that if she loved the product, then others would too. Despite being told the UK consumer ‘will never eat dark chocolate’ Green & Black's fast became the benchmark in 'quality' as well as forging the way in an emerging organic food movement. Recorded in front of a live audience under the high vaulted ceiling of St Wilfred's in Harrogate, Jo joins Holly on stage to chart her c

Feb 17, 2020 • 1:03:55

S7: The story behind building an iconic British fashion brand with founder of Mulberry, Roger Saul

S7: The story behind building an iconic British fashion brand with founder of Mulberry, Roger Saul

Building an international brand selling hundred of millions of pounds work of fashion, from humble beginnings, aged 21 with just £500 - is an incredible story on its own. But what happens on the other side, after being ousted from your own beloved brand - is soul defining. Roger Saul, founder of Mulberry and his latest venture Sharpham Park, shares his story with Holly, in this emotionally charged interview. Charting his humble beginnings right through to today, Roger tells of a journey filled

Feb 10, 2020 • 1:06:01

S7: Reimagining retail space with Alice Mayor, founder of We Built This City

S7: Reimagining retail space with Alice Mayor, founder of We Built This City

Although the future of retail may seem unsure, Alice Mayor (We Built This City) believes now is the time small business can revolutionise and play a huge role in shaping the future. In this episode, Alice shares her philosophy and approach to one of the biggest issues facing the UK retail sector - the high street.   This week Holly hears sage advice, that will hopefully spur on a new generation of shopkeepers or even those small businesses who’ve been thinking about (but are maybe now going!)

Feb 3, 2020 • 1:02:22

S7: Building a vegan empire from the virtual world with BOSH! founders Ian Theasby and Henry Firth

S7: Building a vegan empire from the virtual world with BOSH! founders Ian Theasby and Henry Firth

In a world where the digital landscape gives everyone the opportunity to build a business, how do you harness its power and use it to build the number one brand, in one of the fastest-growing movements of our time? Ian Theasby and Henry Firth, founders of BOSH! tell us how they built a highly successful business based on personalities, drive and beliefs. Sharing the secrets behind how they’ve now taken the vegan community by storm by creating what’s considered the biggest vegan cookery channel

Jan 27, 2020 • 1:06:34

S6: Holly's Christmas Special 2019: Part 2 of 2

S6: Holly's Christmas Special 2019: Part 2 of 2

It's the final episode of the year, and the conclusion to this 2 part festive special - concluding with some very special ‘letters to my younger self.’    In the second part of this special Holly revisits episodes from past six series and reflects on the incredible guests she's hosted, and the advice they've shared over the past year. These conversations recount themes such as female entrepreneurship and how failure can lead you to the path of success.    The Christmas Special episode feature

Dec 16, 2019 • 1:16:44

S6: Holly's Christmas Special 2019: Part 1 of 2

S6: Holly's Christmas Special 2019: Part 1 of 2

It's Holly's best bits! These two extra special bonus episodes are for you to enjoy over the festive season!  In this two-parter Holly looks back over the past six series and reflects on the incredible guests she's hosted, and the advice they've shared over the past year. These conversations centre around key themes from determination and branding to community leadership and doing good… no small feat!   The Christmas Special episodes features highlights from all six seasons, from Richard Reed,

Dec 9, 2019 • 1:08:20

S6: Revolutionising the way we eat with Mindful Chef founders Myles Hopper and Giles Humphries

S6: Revolutionising the way we eat with Mindful Chef founders Myles Hopper and Giles Humphries

Holly meets Mindful Chef Founders Myles and Giles this week for a wonderfully inspirational interview. This episode hear's these two founders openly discussing their business highs and lows over the last 5 years, but also how a ‘giving’ mentality can transform a weekly recipe box into a true force for good. In this conversation you'll hear how these two went from packing their boxes to navigating a successful round of crowdfunding. And how exciting it is as a small business, using the power of

Dec 2, 2019 • 1:11:21

S6: Building a business to live the Good Life with Sir Charlie Gladstone, founder of Pedlars and The Good Life Festival

S6: Building a business to live the Good Life with Sir Charlie Gladstone, founder of Pedlars and The Good Life Festival

This week's episode was recorded in front of a live audience in the glorious Edinburgh, with Charlie Gladstone, founder of The Good Life Experience and Pedlars.  Charlie is hugely passionate about design, provenance, supporting makers, running businesses - but mainly helping everyone to ‘Live the Good Life’, and to do what they love. This is an utterly inspiring episode as Charlie leads us through (his self-described…) “feral” childhood but also what he believes to be game changers for small bu

Nov 25, 2019 • 1:13:58

S6: Taking care of your mental health, whilst running a business, with Owen O’Kane

S6: Taking care of your mental health, whilst running a business, with Owen O’Kane

Owen O'Kane, author of Ten to Zen and a trained Psychologist, joins Holly at the Holly & Co HQ for this week's conversation. This episode centres around Owen's personal path to happiness, as well as how business owners need to put into place simple strategies to help with the stresses and inner critical voice that can hold you back. Owen has been on an incredible journey through life and this episode is an emotional listen. You'll hear how Owen spent his childhood dodging the violence on th

Nov 18, 2019 • 1:13:32

S6: Want to make millions but also make a difference? Hear how Henrietta Morrison did it (founder of Lily’s Kitchen)

S6: Want to make millions but also make a difference? Hear how Henrietta Morrison did it (founder of Lily’s Kitchen)

Henrietta Morrison of Lily’s Kitchen (a pet food range made from the best of British ingredients) has had the most incredible career in business, spanning over 30 years. A born entrepreneur, Henrietta started (and sold) a number of businesses before founding Lily’s Kitchen - which now sells 50 million dog and cat meals a year. In this conversation, Henrietta recounts her happy childhood before a tragic series of unexpected events would turn her life upside down. But it was her terrible loss t

Nov 11, 2019 • 1:06:14

S6: Emma Bridgewater shares the highs and lows of building a timeless brand from scratch

S6: Emma Bridgewater shares the highs and lows of building a timeless brand from scratch

Emma Bridgewater is known best for her iconic style, mixing Britishness & wittiness with beautiful homeware and china.  In this episode Holly hears from Emma about how she built her iconic brand over the last 35 years, creating lasting designs, and reviving an industry in Stoke. With a turn over of over £20 million a year, Holly and Emma explore life as a female entrepreneur in a male dominated industry, discuss their approach to 'mother's guilt' and the strong role family plays within b

Nov 4, 2019 • 1:11:01

S6: Raising strong girls, whilst building a business with the founder of Muthahood, Gemma Metcalfe-Beckers

S6: Raising strong girls, whilst building a business with the founder of Muthahood, Gemma Metcalfe-Beckers

Gemma Metcalfe-Beckers, founder of Muthahood, talks to Holly about her business' main mission - empowering women and girls through ethically produced products that have positive, strong and meaningful messages.  In this episode Holly learns how Gemma's incredible 'Strong Girls Club' represents every woman's strength and the need for celebrating self-value. Gemma's work has grown from only emotional heartache, physical pain and an searingly honest view on the world but wanting to "see" those th

Oct 28, 2019 • 1:13:33

S6: Monetising your Craft with Donna Wilson

S6: Monetising your Craft with Donna Wilson

Donna Wilson, aptly named ‘Designer of the Year’ at Elle Decoration’s British Design Awards, has been creating her curious creatures, cushions, knitwear and ever-expanding home accessories since 2003. Donna’s story began on her parent's farm in rural Aberdeenshire, and it was from these early adventures (and a little push from her inspirational Grandma) that her love for landscapes, wildlife, crafting and of course sustainable practices grew. In this episode, Holly visited Donna in her incred

Oct 21, 2019 • 1:07:06

S6: The Secret to Creative Collaborations with Tatty Devine founders Rosie Wolfenden & Harriet Vine

S6: The Secret to Creative Collaborations with Tatty Devine founders Rosie Wolfenden & Harriet Vine

Rosie Wolfenden & Harriet Vine founded their handmade jewellery company Tatty Devine in 1999 very much as a 'side hustle'; selling their first pieces from a market stall in Camden after discovering the discarded fabric and sample books that they would create their first collection from. Having worked together for the past 20 years, Rosie & Harriet know a thing or two about making collaborations work, having seen successful collaborations with the V&A, Rob Ryan, & Anthony Gormle

Oct 14, 2019 • 1:13:51

S6: The power in believing in your dreams, with Dame Kelly Holmes

S6: The power in believing in your dreams, with Dame Kelly Holmes

This week's episode is highly emotionally charged, as Dame Kelly Holmes discusses the challenges she faced and overcame on her journey to winning two gold medals at the 2004 Olympics. In an extraordinary conversation, Kelly reveals the dramatic lows and mental health struggles that preceded her dreams coming true. Kelly also discusses life after achieving her dreams, how a focused passion can fuel success as well some insights into her own winning mentality and how that can translate into busi

Oct 7, 2019 • 1:03:44

S6: 51. The Congregation Of Inspiration 2019 LIVE Special

S6: 51. The Congregation Of Inspiration 2019 LIVE Special

This week’s episode is a LIVE special podcast from The Congregation of Inspiration 2019. The 12 hour day condensed into one podcast, with tips, advice, lessons and laughs from all our speakers on the day - including Fearne Cotton, Sahar Hashemi OBE, Charlie Gladstone, Freddie Harrel & Emily Coxhead. Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, Edward Perry, Pip Murray, Dave Buonaguidi and of course, Holly Tucker herself. Covering topics from being brave in business, building a brand doing good, to pursuing hap

Sep 30, 2019 • 1:07:47

S5: Turning craft into commerce, with Rob Ryan, Artist

S5: Turning craft into commerce, with Rob Ryan, Artist

This week’s episode of Conversations of Inspiration was recorded LIVE at St Mary’s Church in Marylebone London, as part of the most incredible day in the small business calendar, The Congregation of Inspiration 2019. This week’s guest is Rob Ryan, an artist renowned for his intricate papercuttings. His artwork has featured in Vogue, Elle, and Stylist. One year he created 28 Liberty Christmas windows which started a journey where Rob's work began to be seen by the masses. He has collaborated wi

Sep 23, 2019 • 58:21

S5: Pioneering a movement in affordable art, with Will Ramsay, founder of The Affordable Art Fair

S5: Pioneering a movement in affordable art, with Will Ramsay, founder of The Affordable Art Fair

This week on Conversations of Inspiration Holly meets Will Ramsay - founder of the Affordable Art Fair. With a shared passion for art and supporting creative individuals, as well as a joint belief in the power of curation, this is an episode filled with sage advice and a particularly poignant letter to close the conversation. In this episode, Will and Holly discuss his unique upbringing, being one part of a military dynasty, with a very significant grandfather, and how that shaped his life as

Sep 16, 2019 • 1:09:22

S5: Turning a niche into a global success, with Alan Keery, co-founder of Cereal Killer Cafe

S5: Turning a niche into a global success, with Alan Keery, co-founder of Cereal Killer Cafe

This week on Conversations of Inspiration Holly meets Alan Keery, co-founder of The Cereal Killer Cafe in their awe-inspiring cafe on Brick Lane. From ignoring the naysayers when launching a niche business to gaining media attention from day one and dealing with a completely overwhelming media frenzy when they were targeted with attacks during the London riots, the Cereal Killer Cafe have been on an extraordinary journey in the last 4 years. They have now overcome that to be the feature of a Lo

Sep 9, 2019 • 1:04:19

S5: Sipsmith’s founders Fairfax Hall and Sam Galsworthy explain the vision it took to set up the first independent gin distillery in 200 years

S5: Sipsmith’s founders Fairfax Hall and Sam Galsworthy explain the vision it took to set up the first independent gin distillery in 200 years

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly made the short journey down the road to the beautiful Sipsmith distillery in Chiswick, to meet Sipsmith founders Sam Galsworthy and Fairfax Hall. This is a story that shows the beauty and power of building a company with a close friend, with a shared vision and passion. Sipsmith's story is a special one - in an industry that has not seen a new independent gin distillery opened in over 200 years, Sipsmith single-handedly changed the entire industr

Jul 29, 2019 • 1:30:11

S5: Doing good with business, LIVE with Mark Constantine OBE, co-founder of Lush

S5: Doing good with business, LIVE with Mark Constantine OBE, co-founder of Lush

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience of 300 in the beautiful surroundings of Manchester Cathedral. Mark Constantine, co founder of the iconic brand Lush, is the ultimate role model of someone who can turn their life around through following their purpose and passion. Abandoned by his father at a very young age, Mark had a very difficult start in life, ending up living on the streets at 16 and with very little prospects. However his sheer hard work, determination and followin

Jul 22, 2019 • 1:14:04

S5: Mapping out a business in happiness, with Tina Bernstein, founder of Mapology Guides

S5: Mapping out a business in happiness, with Tina Bernstein, founder of Mapology Guides

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly meets Tina Bernstein, founder of Mapology Guides. In this thought provoking episode, Holly & Tina discuss how Tina used her struggles with mental health to help empower others, and how she now lives the Good Life through founding her business. A designer, blogger, and entrepreneur, Tina started her creative career studying at the renowned art school, Central St Martins. However, after suffering from a nervous breakdown at 26, Tina moved in

Jul 15, 2019 • 1:09:54

S5: Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place, on how you can find joy by being really truly ‘you’

S5: Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place, on how you can find joy by being really truly ‘you’

This week on Conversations of Inspiration Holly speaks to Fearne Cotton, founder of Happy Place.  A true entrepreneur in the making, Fearne is creating a strong brand from her purpose and passion - building a business doing exactly what she loves. In this episode, Holly and Fearne discuss the difficult transition to taking the leap into starting her own business, the juggle as a working mum, navigating social media as well as the solace she has found in putting creativity at the very heart of

Jul 8, 2019 • 1:27:11

S5: Serving up street food to transform our cities, with Petra Barran, founder of KERB

S5: Serving up street food to transform our cities, with Petra Barran, founder of KERB

In this episode, Holly meets passionate and inspiring Petra Barran, the founder of KERB. Throughout this conversation, Petra and her love not only of food, but for inspiring and helping small businesses build their own companies and dreams shines through. With the goal to become part of the fabric of London, this was a podcast designed for those who need to see, how big things can come from the smallest of beginnings - even, out the front of an ice cream van! Petra began her small business j

Jul 1, 2019 • 1:12:36

S5: Creating the future of retail, with Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark

S5: Creating the future of retail, with Roger Wade, founder of Boxpark

This week Holly meets Roger Wade, the founder of Boxpark, - to hear about his mission to use his business as a force for good, to bring together communities and make them thrive, safer and happier.    Holly & Roger discuss the future of the high street, their shared passion for independents, and how though his visionary concept for Boxpark, Roger is disrupting the world of retail. Roger started his career in advertising, being fired twice before moving to the US where he discovered his pas

Jun 24, 2019 • 1:11:33

S5: Find your identity and make that your brand LIVE, with Levi Roots, founder of Reggae Reggae Sauce

S5: Find your identity and make that your brand LIVE, with Levi Roots, founder of Reggae Reggae Sauce

This episode was recorded in front of a live audience in Bristol for the second date on our live tour of Conversations of Inspiration, in partnership with NatWest. In this conversation, Holly & Levi discuss his difficult early years, the decision to turn his life around and the passion and determination that powered him to success today, as well as, of course his unforgettable appearance on Dragons Den which would go on to supercharge his brand.  Born in Jamaica, he came to the UK at the a

Jun 17, 2019 • 49:44

S4: Balancing commercial with creative, with Alex Monroe, founder of Alex Monroe Jewellery

S4: Balancing commercial with creative, with Alex Monroe, founder of Alex Monroe Jewellery

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly speaks to jeweller Alex Monroe at his ‘buzzing’ headquarters boutique in London. With 30 successful years in the business, Alex’s insight and attitude will provide a huge source of inspiration and advice for creative small businesses looking to combine creativity with commerciality. With fans such as Emma Watson, Sienna Miller and a regular in Vogue - Alex Monroe is a masterclass in growing your brand whilst maintaining your integrity and creativi

Jun 10, 2019 • 1:16:17

S4: How to zig when the world zags, with Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH & The Garage Soho

S4: How to zig when the world zags, with Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH & The Garage Soho

In this episode, Holly meets the legendary Sir John Hegarty, founder of BBH advertising agency and The Garage Soho. With a phenomenal creative career, John was the first ever person to be Knighted for his services to the advertising and creative industries and his BBH agency has been named Agency of the Year more than six times. John started out in the advertising world in the 60’s, moving up the ranks quickly and helping to set up agencies TBWA and the infamous Saatchi and Saatchi. Then foundin

Jun 3, 2019 • 1:16:16

S4: Breaking new ground in business, with Sahar Hashemi OBE, co-founder of Coffee Republic

S4: Breaking new ground in business, with Sahar Hashemi OBE, co-founder of Coffee Republic

This week Holly talks to the incredible Sahar Hashemi OBE, founder of Coffee Republic. Launched in 1995, Sahar co-founded Coffee Republic alongside her brother Bobby, becoming the UK's first coffee bar. Scaling her business up to 110 coffee shops within 5 years, Sahar’s success was astounding. After struggling to get investment because the bank managers stated that Britain was a nation of tea drinkers, Sahar's determination paid off and saw Coffee Republic at the forefront of coffee culture, c

May 27, 2019 • 1:06:18

S4: Happiness is running a business doing what you love, LIVE with Thomasina Miers OBE, founder of Wahaca

S4: Happiness is running a business doing what you love, LIVE with Thomasina Miers OBE, founder of Wahaca

This week's episode was recorded in front of a live audience of 300 people in central London for the first ever Conversations of Inspiration Live event. Thomasina Miers OBE is best known as co-founder of restaurant chain Wahaca and winner of Masterchef. Thomasina’s journey has not been easy, with a ten-year spell of depression, it was a chance meeting that set her on her path to happiness, founding a business doing exactly what she loves.  It was whilst traveling around Mexico, her love af

May 20, 2019 • 1:04:25

S4: Making your creative mark, with Eleanor Tattersfield, founder of Marby & Elm

S4: Making your creative mark, with Eleanor Tattersfield, founder of Marby & Elm

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly speaks to Eleanor Tattersfield, founder of Marby and Elm.  A fellow stationary addict, Holly joined Eleanor in her east London emporium like shop to hear her journey from student and waitress to Liberty stockist and business founder.   This episode covers everything from where Eleanor finds her inspiration, to running a high street space, customer experience in retail and the importance of community.  So open, funny and self-deprecating -

May 13, 2019 • 1:05:51

S4: Darjeeling Express’ founder Asma Khan, shares her remarkable journey and why she’s so passionate about empowering women

S4: Darjeeling Express’ founder Asma Khan, shares her remarkable journey and why she’s so passionate about empowering women

This week, Holly meets Asma Khan, founder of the restaurant Darjeeling Express. An episode filled with spectacular advice and insight, Asma shares her early life experiences in India and how they shaped her journey to this point. Born a second daughter in India, Asma felt the intense impact of feeling unwanted which she now sees underpins her belief in using her business as a force for good and helping other women feel valued.  Asma has had an extraordinary journey, starting in India with

May 6, 2019 • 1:08:32

S4: Advice from Britain’s most-successful start up investor, with Tom Teichman, co-founder of The Garage Soho

S4: Advice from Britain’s most-successful start up investor, with Tom Teichman, co-founder of The Garage Soho

This week Holly speaks to investor Tom Teichman, the founder of Spark Ventures & The Garage Soho.  Known as ‘Britain’s most-successful digital start-up backer’ Tom has invested in companies such as LastMinute.com, Moshi Monsters and Made.com.  He also played a key role in Holly's business journey, when he invested in Notonthehighstreet. Together they recount the serendipitous way in which Tom and Holly met, and the incredible journey they embarked on. Now Tom runs his latest venture

Apr 29, 2019 • 1:01:13

S4: Crafting a future doing what you love, with Alice Gabb, artist and illustrator

S4: Crafting a future doing what you love, with Alice Gabb, artist and illustrator

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly meets Alice Gabb - a self taught calligrapher who now creates commissions for some of the UK biggest brands.  In this conversation, Alice shares lessons from her journey so far, the power of knowing your numbers, as well as the need for communities in this digital age. Alice's letter to her younger self is particularly powerful - and a must listen for any teenage girls in your life. Alice started her small business selling hand printed fine

Apr 22, 2019 • 1:01:45

S4: People are the most important thing in business, with Keith Abel, founder of Abel & Cole

S4: People are the most important thing in business, with Keith Abel, founder of Abel & Cole

This week on Conversations of Inspiration, Holly meets Keith Abel, founder of Abel & Cole. A successful and well loved entrepreneur, Keith started his entrepreneurial journey as a salesman selling potatoes door to door, where a chance encounter led him to discovering organic vegetables.  At a time when everything grown was covered in chemicals, Keith quickly realised people would pay more for organic, chemical-free produce and so Abel and Cole was born, over 30 years ago.  Leading t

Apr 15, 2019 • 1:05:01

S4: Building a strong brand in the digital age, with Rita Clifton CBE, founder of BrandCap

S4: Building a strong brand in the digital age, with Rita Clifton CBE, founder of BrandCap

This week on Conversations of Inspiration Holly meets the ‘Queen of Brand’ Rita Clifton CBE. Rita is the ultimate expert in brand and offers such an expert and unique insight that will be invaluable to all small business for this aspect of their business. In this conversation, Holly and Rita discuss what it takes to build a powerful and long last brand, she shares her tips for small business and ways they can implement her decades of industry knowledge into their own businesses, as well as he

Apr 8, 2019 • 1:16:52

S3: The White Company’s incredible founder, Chrissie Rucker OBE, explains why slow and steady always wins the race

S3: The White Company’s incredible founder, Chrissie Rucker OBE, explains why slow and steady always wins the race

In this episode, Holly meets one of her business idols - Chrissie Rucker OBE, founder of The White Company.  In this conversation, they discuss Chrissie's incredible 25 year journey, how she has weathered the storms of retail, juggling a business whilst raising a family (with an entrepreneurial husband to boot!) and her work with the Princes Trust ‘Women Supporting Women’ and how we can all help encourage, inspire and champion women to start their own business.  Chrissie founded The White

Apr 1, 2019 • 1:06:55

S3: Joe Wicks MBE, founder of The Body Coach, shares his secret to being an overnight success

S3: Joe Wicks MBE, founder of The Body Coach, shares his secret to being an overnight success

This week Holly meets Joe Wicks, aka the Body Coach, to discuss building a huge social following and a brand, with a purpose. Now a TV presenter and author, specialising in cooking and fitness books, Joe started his career as a personal trainer, but he only experienced success when he started posting 15-second recipe videos on social media.  Joe grew his brand to become one of the most followed fitness accounts on Instagram, his first published cookbook Lean in 15 was one of the best-selli

Mar 25, 2019 • 1:00:55

S3: From the kitchen table to the supermarket shelves, with Pippa Murray, founder of Pip & Nut

S3: From the kitchen table to the supermarket shelves, with Pippa Murray, founder of Pip & Nut

A fascinating insight, into the rollercoaster journey of someone who is right in the midst of scaling her business. This week, Holly speaks to the ‘Queen of Nut Butter’ Pippa Murray, founder of Pip & Nut. A must listen episode for anyone who dreams of starting their own food or drink business, especially those future female founders who can look at Pip’s journey and be inspired to start theirs. Holly & Pip discuss scaling from the kitchen table, investment and building a team. As a ru

Mar 18, 2019 • 1:06:19

S3: Bringing soul back to our High Streets, with Ash Bishop, founder of The Brilliant Signs Company

S3: Bringing soul back to our High Streets, with Ash Bishop, founder of The Brilliant Signs Company

In this episode, Holly explores the rich heritage and history of signwriting with Ash Bishop - founder of The Brilliant Signs Company.  Ash started out in the Army at Sandhurst, until he decided that it was time to walk in his great-grandfather’s footsteps and followed the family trade of sign-writing.  He decided to resurrect one of his most admired sign businesses, ‘The Brilliant Signs Company’ which was originally founded 1888, but fell into disrepair. Ash ‘reclaimed’ it in 1999, where

Mar 11, 2019 • 58:40

S3: The power of an instagram community, with Joanne Hawker, designer and founder of 'March Meet The Maker'

S3: The power of an instagram community, with Joanne Hawker, designer and founder of 'March Meet The Maker'

This week Holly sits down with Joanne Hawker, cards and accessories designer, to talk community and small business - two of her favourite topics. A designer by day, Joanne is also well known as the brains behind the Instagram challenge and phenomenon, ‘March Meet the Maker’. ‘March Meet The Maker’ is a tool to help shine a light on the makers across the world, by challenging them to share their ideas, favourites and what inspires them.  In this conversation, Joanne discusses her journey fr

Mar 4, 2019 • 49:19

S3: Disrupting a traditional industry, with Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wines

S3: Disrupting a traditional industry, with Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wines

This week Holly speaks to Rowan Gormley, founder of Naked Wines and CEO of Majestic Wines.  Rowan grew up in South Africa, but moved to the UK, after following his wife to London where he worked for none other than Richard Branson!  After setting up Virgin money, and then Virgin wines, he was unceremoniously fired, leading him to start his own company Naked Wines.  Disrupting the world of wine with his business, through his crowdfunded platform - Rowan’s mission is to change the wine in

Feb 25, 2019 • 1:01:51

S3: Leadership without ego, with Will Butler-Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes

S3: Leadership without ego, with Will Butler-Adams, CEO of Brompton Bikes

Will Butler-Adams is a CEO with a refreshingly down to earth, humorous and purpose driven attitude to building a business. In his 17 years leading the company, Brompton Bikes has grown 15% year on year, but despite its growth, Brompton has fiercely retained its company culture. After taking an unexpected spin around Brompton HQ, Holly & Will sat down to discuss how to build a company with purpose beyond the product, how to lead a team and what defines a great leader. Enjoying listenin

Feb 18, 2019 • 58:56

S3: The soulful businessman, with Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer

S3: The soulful businessman, with Lord Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer

In a truly soulful and enlightening interview this week, Holly meets Lord Karan Bilimoria, founder of Cobra Beer. Lord Bilimoria founded Cobra Beer after spotting a gap in a market that had hardly changed in over 200 years, with a student debt of £20,000 in hand - and not much else. His story of building this iconic brand, as well as the ethics and values he places at the heart of everything he does, is truly remarkable. With a rich heritage of successful relatives, Lord Bilimoria has harn

Feb 11, 2019 • 1:02:18

S3: Being an introverted entrepreneur, with Veronica Dearly, founder of Veronica Dearly Illustrations

S3: Being an introverted entrepreneur, with Veronica Dearly, founder of Veronica Dearly Illustrations

This week Holly speaks to artist and illustrator Veronica Dearly.  Veronica brings joy to the world with her smart, relatable, funny and very real illustrations, which she prints onto cards, gifts and shares daily, with her Instagram community.  Her well-timed, highly empathetic posts often go viral and are shared with thousands of people around the world - not bad for someone who didn’t have any conventional training, was a young mum and had started life as one of the shyest people she kn

Feb 4, 2019 • 59:52

S3: The future is curated, with Tamara Lohan MBE, founder of Mr & Mrs Smith

S3: The future is curated, with Tamara Lohan MBE, founder of Mr & Mrs Smith

This week, Holly meets Tamara Lohan MBE, founder and CTO of Mr & Mrs Smith: a travel company that's grown from a single curated book of 35 hotels in 2002, to an online community of over 1.5 million members with offices in London, New York and LA. With the competition high and automation the current currency, Tamara explains what it's taken to grow a brand that focuses on the details.  In this meeting of minds, they discuss the early days of building Mr & Mrs Smith, what it's really li

Jan 28, 2019 • 58:18

S2: The power of retail theater, with Bill Collison, founder of Bill's

S2: The power of retail theater, with Bill Collison, founder of Bill's

This week, Holly meets Bill Collison, the founder of Bill’s restaurants. In this episode, Bill shares his journey from the very early days as a barrow boy all the way to taking on investment to grow the business into what it is today. As a Romany gypsy, Bill grew up planting and foraging, which helped fuel his love for fresh, seasonal produce. It was this love of fruit and vegetables which led Bill to work for a brief time as a chef, before going back to work for his dad. Together, they start

Jan 21, 2019 • 50:18

S2: Turning an industry on it's head, with Freddie Garland, founder of Freddies Flowers

S2: Turning an industry on it's head, with Freddie Garland, founder of Freddies Flowers

This week Holly meets Freddie Garland, founder of Freddie's Flowers. Fresh out of university, Freddie started work as one of Abel & Cole's delivery drivers. Cutting his teeth selling subscription models and having parents who were florists - Freddie spotted the potential for a floral subscription delivery service. With little knowledge of the mechanics of running a business based in subscriptions, Freddie set out on his journey to success. Despite a few hard learnt lessons along the way; a

Jan 14, 2019 • 43:00

S2: Success without following the trends, with Annoushka Ducas MBE, founder of Links of London and Annoushka Jewellery

S2: Success without following the trends, with Annoushka Ducas MBE, founder of Links of London and Annoushka Jewellery

By her own admission "an accidental jeweller", Annoushka Ducas has built an empire that revolutionised the jewellery industry. Links of London was the first brand to bring personalised, well crafted and highly gift-able jewellery under one beautiful brand to the high street. Annoushka and her husband John launched Links of London in 1990 and built the brand over 15 years until they made the difficult decision to sell. Within 18 months Annoushka launched her second brand, Annoushka Jewellery.

Jan 7, 2019 • 53:40

S2: Visualising success, with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and JamJar Investments

S2: Visualising success, with Richard Reed CBE, co-founder of Innocent and JamJar Investments

This week, Holly meets Richard Reed CBE, co founder of Innocent and now co founder of JamJar Investments. The story of Innocent is a phenomenal one - simply built on 3 friends deciding at university they wanted to start a business together that allowed them to hang out everyday. They settled on smoothies as 'the product' (decided on a hangover!) and the entrepreneurial rollercoaster ensued. With numerous highs along the journey, as well as epic lows during the financial crisis, Richard shares

Dec 24, 2018 • 1:07:45

S2: Shaking up the world of advertising, with Dave Buonaguidi, artist and founder of Karmarama & St Lukes

S2: Shaking up the world of advertising, with Dave Buonaguidi, artist and founder of Karmarama & St Lukes

You might not immediately know the name Dave Buonaguidi or be able to pronounce it, but he's truly one of a kind, and the ultimate pin-up in the world of advertising. He's made it his life's work to go against the grain and shake up the creative world. This straight talking, creative and expletive-ridden interview is one of life's one of a kind conversations! After many years in advertising, Dave set up St Lukes, the world's first advertising co-operative, which was ahead of its time. Afte

Dec 17, 2018 • 1:10:31

S2: Putting women at the heart of business, with Danielle & Natalie, founders of Fequals

S2: Putting women at the heart of business, with Danielle & Natalie, founders of Fequals

This week, Holly meets founders of F equals, Danielle and Natalie. As twins, they were natural co founders and, 4 years into building their business, are going from strength to strength as they find themselves in a political landscape which is crying out for a brand such as F equals. The company was founded when both sisters found themselves at a cross roads and decided to bring together their individual skills, expertise and belief, that women in business, were under represented. The F equal

Dec 10, 2018 • 1:06:33

S2: Creativity can set you free, with Zack McLaughlin, founder of Paper and Wood

S2: Creativity can set you free, with Zack McLaughlin, founder of Paper and Wood

In this episode, Holly meets Zack - a phenomenally talented maker, who crafts lifelike and delicate birds by hand out of little more than paper and wood.  In his deeply personal conversation, Zack reveals why birds became his source of inspiration, the journey from struggling as a maker to the beginnings of becoming successful, and how ultimately his urge to create, set him free.  This episode is truly inspiring and Zack is a testament to the powerful belief that the combination of talent,

Dec 3, 2018 • 53:27

S2: Turning business on its head, with Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of LEON

S2: Turning business on its head, with Henry Dimbleby MBE, co-founder of LEON

This week, Holly meets Henry Dimbleby, co-founder of LEON. Sharing his journey from gossip columnist and business consultant to restauranteur, Henry discusses the importance of being a founder with purpose. He talks about his huge ambition from day one at LEON to build as a global brand, as well as how to navigate the difficult transition that is being a founder exiting a business. With entrepreneurial spirit in his blood, Henry was never going to sit back after handing over the reins, and hi

Nov 26, 2018 • 1:01:59

S2: The Black Farmer, AKA Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, explains how being an outsider can be your greatest advantage

S2: The Black Farmer, AKA Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, explains how being an outsider can be your greatest advantage

Wilfred Emmanuel-Jones, also known as The Black Farmer, is someone who has always followed his own path. After arriving from Jamaica at the age of 3, growing up in a terrace house in Birmingham, and being diagnosed as dyslexic - it might have seemed like the odds were stacked against Wilfred. But time spent on his fathers allotment led him to dream of one day owning his own farm. After a successful career in Television and PR, Wilfred realised this dream; buying his own farm and launching his br

Nov 19, 2018 • 1:07:44

S2: Building 'good' business from challenging times, with Jo Tutchener-Sharp, founder of Scamp & Dude

S2: Building 'good' business from challenging times, with Jo Tutchener-Sharp, founder of Scamp & Dude

This week Holly talks to Jo Tutchener-Sharp who shares her incredible story.  After leading a glamorous life in beauty PR, and running her own hugely successful agency, Jo had a life-altering moment which caused her to reevaluate everything. With a determination to do more good in the world, Jo launched Scamp & Dude - a company with true passion and purpose. Holly and Jo discuss the role of social media influencers, how to deal with copying as well as the some of the highs along the journ

Nov 12, 2018 • 56:50

S1: Ethical businesses are the future, with Edward Perry, co-founder of COOK

S1: Ethical businesses are the future, with Edward Perry, co-founder of COOK

Do businesses have a responsibility to be a force for good in society, or do they exist solely to make profit? COOK is one of a growing number of B corps in the UK: businesses that are committed to being a force for good in society. In this episode of Conversations of Inspiration, Holly sits down with COOK’s co-founder Edward Perry to hear how he took the idea for COOK from his mother's homemade cooking and grew it into the successful company it is today.  They also talk about how to find your

Nov 5, 2018 • 46:45

S1: When creativity goes viral, with Steve Wheen, founder of The Pothole Gardener

S1: When creativity goes viral, with Steve Wheen, founder of The Pothole Gardener

This week Holly is joined by Steve Wheen, The Pothole Gardener. A creative and artist who set out to bring happiness to the every day by creating miniature gardens in potholes across the country. What started as a side project, went on to become a viral sensation. Together they discuss how sometimes its the smallest things which make the biggest impact, the importance of creativity and the beauty in finding the right collaborations. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth follo

Oct 29, 2018 • 47:33

S1: The power of thinking differently thanks to dyslexia with Pip Jamieson, founder of The Dots

S1: The power of thinking differently thanks to dyslexia with Pip Jamieson, founder of The Dots

This week Holly is joined by Pip Jamieson, founder of The Dots, a networking website which has been dubbed Linkedin for creative professionals. Together they talk about their experiences as women in business, diversity in all its forms, dyslexia, and how creativity could be the key to surviving in an automated future.. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly Tucker MBE and Holly & Co on Instagram, and subscribing to our weekly newsletter on our website, wher

Oct 22, 2018 • 47:49

S1: Boden’s founder Johnnie Boden is living proof that it takes passion and personality to build a brand people love

S1: Boden’s founder Johnnie Boden is living proof that it takes passion and personality to build a brand people love

Since launching as a menswear catalogue in 1991, Boden has grown to become synonymous with a colourful and creative spirit, which founder Johnnie Boden personifies. Holly visited Johnnie, now creative director of the company, in Boden's London offices to hear about what led him to start Boden, finding creative fulfilment, and a very special letter (not to be missed) to his younger self at the end. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly Tucker MBE and Holly &am

Oct 15, 2018 • 59:11

S1: Bringing 'happy' to the retail table, with Emily Coxhead, founder of The Happy News

S1: Bringing 'happy' to the retail table, with Emily Coxhead, founder of The Happy News

In a world where bad news dominates our headlines, Emily Coxhead created The Happy Newspaper: a newspaper which only shines a light on good news. Since starting with £500 raised through Kickstarter and handing out copies in care homes and hospitals, Emily has grown the Happy News into something quite magical.  Holly sat down with Emily on her sofa to talk about how not only Richard Branson is one of her greatest fans but also, how feeling low helped her come up with the idea in the first p

Oct 8, 2018 • 45:27

S1: The healing power of becoming an artisan, with Andy Poplar, founder of Vinegar & Brown Paper

S1: The healing power of becoming an artisan, with Andy Poplar, founder of Vinegar & Brown Paper

This week, Holly heads to Andy Poplar's studio space near Leeds. In this incredibly honest and at times emotional conversation, Andy sheds light on why he left his city job to fulfil his creative dreams. The company he started, Vinegar & Brown Paper, has gone from strength to strength, and is a masterclass in how to build a brand with authenticity. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly Tucker MBE and Holly & Co on Instagram, and subscribing to our week

Oct 1, 2018 • 49:21

S1: Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves, on how you can turn your greatest mistake into your biggest achievement

S1: Jo Malone CBE, founder of Jo Loves, on how you can turn your greatest mistake into your biggest achievement

This week, Jo Malone CBE talks to Holly in the offices of Jo Loves about entrepreneurial spirit, finding the 'heart' of a business, fostering the next generation of SME's, and much more. One of the UK's best known entrepreneurs, this conversation is full of wisdom you only learn after travelling the seas of building iconic brands. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly Tucker MBE and Holly & Co on Instagram, and subscribing to our weekly newsletter on our w

Sep 24, 2018 • 46:36

S1: Selfish Mother & The FMLY Store’s founder Molly Gunn on why she believes in using business for good

S1: Selfish Mother & The FMLY Store’s founder Molly Gunn on why she believes in using business for good

In this episode, Holly welcomes Molly Gunn, founder of Selfish Mother and The FMLY Store. Selfish Mother began life as a blogzine after Molly left her 9-5 as a fashion journalist, which grew with the success of the 'Mother' Tee in 2014. These tees have now raised almost £1M for charity. Holly sat down with Molly in her offices in Bruton in Somerset, to talk 'mumpreneurs', flexible working and raising money for charity. Enjoying listening to these unfiltered chats? It's worth following Holly

Sep 17, 2018 • 52:46

S1: How businesses are built by communities not customers, with Ella Mills, founder of Deliciously Ella

S1: How businesses are built by communities not customers, with Ella Mills, founder of Deliciously Ella

This week Holly visited Ella Mills in her kitchen to hear what Ella has learned from starting her wildly successful healthy eating company, Deliciously Ella. Since starting her Instagram blog in response to her illness, Ella has grown the Deliciously Ella brand to include 3 bestselling cookbooks, a deli based in central London, and her own range of health foods. Holly and Ella chatted about bringing a brand to life, the struggles of opening and running a physical space, working with people

Sep 10, 2018 • 51:22

S1: Don’t just think it, do it, with Julie Deane OBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company

S1: Don’t just think it, do it, with Julie Deane OBE, founder of The Cambridge Satchel Company

For the first episode of Conversations of Inspiration, Holly travelled to Cambridge to have tea with Julie Deane OBE, to hear about the rollercoaster ride that was the meteoric rise of the Cambridge Satchel Company.  Over the course of their conversation, Holly & Julie talked about the importance of a supportive family and what motivated Julie to start her business. Having incredibly learned to code in days, Julie had (and still has) a fierce ‘do it yourself’ attitude. They also delved in

Sep 3, 2018 • 59:31

Coming Soon: Conversations of Inspiration

Coming Soon: Conversations of Inspiration

In Conversations of Inspiration, Holly Tucker will be hearing from some of the founders of Britain's most iconic brands, as well as some incredible small businesses, to find out how they made a career doing what they love.

Aug 29, 2018 • 1:09

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