Conversations of Inspiration

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 belief in Childs Farm kept Joanna going in the darkest of times  Joanna shares how her childhood fostered a belief that if you really want something to happen, you have to get up and do it yourself If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Paul Lindley OBE, founder of Ella’s Kitchen. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business finds and inspiration, nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus exclusive offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

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 the courage of her convictions. Jane shares how confidence is not always innate but can be built from your successes. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Bobbi Brown, founder of Bobbi Brown and Jones Road Beauty. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business finds and inspiration, nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus exclusive offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

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 power of creativity to build a fun and joyful brand. Discover the importance of continually evolving your offering, and the true power of pivoting.

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 dreams. Hear about the grit and determination it takes to live your passion and build your own business. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Trinny Woodall, founder of Trinny London. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

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 explores the ‘Question Everything’ economy. Marcia also shares her thoughts on female founders and the anti-ageing industry, and how as a beauty brand leader, she hopes to empower women to strive to be our best selves rather than succumbing to a generic, standardised idea of beauty. This is a conversation that celebrates women and female founders of all ages and it’s one that will leave you invigorated, enlightened and ready to embark on your own journey. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Sahar Hashemi OBE, co-founder of Coffee Republic. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

“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 be more aware of their wellness, at a time when cancer in the under 50s is rising globally. In this episode, Rosamund talks to Holly about the journey she has been on to rebuild her body, mind and life, and shares the highs and lows along the way. Rosamund also explains how she has navigated the world of medical treatment and surgery, and of how her experiences have not only shaped her perspective, but also her as a person. This is an episode not to be missed — full of soulful words of wisdom that will resonate with anyone who loves life and wants to seize the day. Please note that this episode contains discussion around cancer.  If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Kristin Hallenga, founder of Coppafeel. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

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 sparkling water with wonky fruit that would otherwise have gone to waste. A certified B Corp, DASH Water is a brand that has disrupted the beverage industry, taking on the soft drinks giants and offering a new generation of customers a healthy and sustainable alternative. Alex and Jack’s story is one of entrepreneurial passion and purpose and of how having strong core values and social responsibility within your business can not only keep you on track but can help you drive positive change in the world. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Sebastian Pole, co-founder of Pukka Tea and Pip Murray founder of Pip & Nut. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice.

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 journey with grief, and his desire to instil purpose and drive in the next generation. It’s a captivating conversation that pays tribute to a man who, while navigating some of life’s toughest challenges, has shown enormous generosity of spirit, compassion and kindness.  It is a must-listen episode for anyone looking to support positive progress. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with  Sue Fennessy, founder of WeAre8. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

“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 baking and their lives took an unexpected turn. Recognising that baking had been fundamental in Kitty’s recovery, Kitty and Al set about changing the world one loaf at a time. In this episode Holly speaks to Kitty and Al, and learns more of how they immersed themselves in the world of baking - and how they are now using their knowledge and passion to inspire, educate and empower others, bringing the art of baking to the masses.  Sharing many tear-jerking and life-affirming tales from their journey so far, this is a conversation about creativity and self belief, and one that highlights the transformative power that pursuing our passions can have on our lives. If you enjoyed this episode, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Katy Emck OBE, founding director of Fine Cell Work. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice. 

“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 using his learned experiences to help others through dark times in their own lives. In this candid conversation with Holly, Tony speaks with brutal honesty about the derailing of his life, the demons from the past that he has had to face to get back on track, and the compassion and empathy he has had to find for himself along the way. It’s a story of huge mental resilience, of recovery and redemption and one that ultimately celebrates the survival instinct in all of us. It’s also one you won’t want to miss. Please note: It’s worth taking a moment to make sure that no little ears are listening, as the subjects of drug abuse and child abuse are discussed.  If this episode resonated with you, we think you’ll love Holly’s Conversation of Inspiration with Goldie MBE, DJ, artist and actor. Plus for more unfiltered insight, subscribe to Holly’s weekly newsletters on our website, where she shares small business inspiration of all kinds, exclusive nuggets of wisdom from her and her guests, plus offers, creative ideas and topical, 'ungoogleable' business advice.