In this eighth episode of My Kind of Business, Alex is joined by intuitive mindfulness coach Holly Smith for a warm and powerful conversation about self-belief, mental health and building a business rooted in purpose.

Holly shares her journey from aspiring vet to neurological physiotherapist, and how mindfulness supported her through anxiety and depression — ultimately leading her to start her own business, My Kind of Mind, in 2018. What began as a deeply personal practice evolved into a thriving coaching business offering workshops, retreats and 1:1 support for people navigating stress, burnout and disconnection — including NHS staff.

Alex and Holly talk about the mindset shifts that come with running a values-led business, the challenges of pricing your work, and why consistency and compassion matter more than chasing fast success.

Whether you’re feeling disconnected from your work, craving more meaning, or wrestling with self-doubt, this conversation is full of honest insight and gentle encouragement.

Episode Timestamps

00:00 – From aspiring vet to mindfulness coach 02:57 – The seed of a business: how mindfulness changed everything 05:49 – Mindfulness and managing anxiety, depression & burnout 09:01 – What people often get wrong about mindfulness 11:50 – Holly’s business growth and unexpected opportunities 14:53 – What her current work looks like: courses, retreats, and NHS wellbeing support 17:53 – Her proudest moment: public speaking for her own business 21:36 – How personal growth mirrors business growth 25:26 – Mindfulness as a tool for emotional well-being and resilience 28:36 – Reframing pricing, money and self-worth 35:37 – The truth about consistency and sustainable growth 39:46 – Coming back to your ‘why’ — especially when things feel hard

What to Expect

Real talk on mental health, mindfulness and the messiness of business growth Encouragement for anyone navigating change or feeling stuck Insights into intuitive, sustainable business-building A reminder that your path doesn't need to look like anyone else’sHeads-up: the audio is slightly tinny at times on my end — thanks for sticking with it!

Connect with Holly

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/my_kind_of_mind/ Explore Holly’s courses & retreats: https://www.my-kind-of-mind.com/

Connect with Alex

Book a free Business Connection Online Networking Session: alexmccarthycoaching.as.me/businessconnectionsession Instagram: @alexmccarthycoaching Facebook Group: Business Connection Community LinkedIn: Alex McCarthy on LinkedIn Website: www.alexmccarthycoaching.com